A new research centre to identify manufacturing processes of the future has opened at the Sony UK Technology Centre (UK TEC) in Pencoed (MediWales, 2017).

The facility has launched the Advanced Manufacturing Research Operations Centre (AMROC) in a collaborative partnership with Sony Global Manufacturing & Operations Corporation.

The project will pioneer processes focused on the fourth generation of manufacturing, known as industry 4.0. This aims to challenge traditional department-specific manufacturing by connecting each process into one operation.

Steve Dalton, Sony UK TEC’s managing director, said “Being chosen to carry out this vital research as a collaborative partner with our headquarters puts Sony UK TEC on the map, not just in Wales, but on the global manufacturing stage, which is something we are rightly proud of. Here at Sony UK TEC we have developed substantially over the years by investing in the latest manufacturing equipment and processes, which has enabled us to create a more diverse portfolio and collaborate with companies around the world. With this is mind, I believe Sony Corporation felt we were the right choice to explore the industry 4.0 model further and take forward the concepts to make them a reality.”

Sony UK TEC currently produces thousands of high definition broadcast and professional camera systems annually, including the latest 4K broadcast cameras.