AI REDGIO 5.0

For the digital transformation of European Manufacturing SMEs, the ICT Innovation for Manufacturing SMEs (I4MS) program under Horizon 2020 has been a great success. Program Phase IV concentrated on Digital Innovation Hubs (DIHs) and cutting-edge technology like AI and digital twins.

The AI REGIO Innovation Action, in particular, created a symbiotic partnership between regions, DIHs, AI solution providers, and manufacturing SMEs. This partnership is manifested by a new methodology for DIHs service portfolio and customer journey analysis, an AI4EU-focused toolkit of Data and AI resources, a network of Didactic Factories and their TEchnology and REgulatory SAndboxes (TERESA), an ecosystem of SME-driven experiments, and their Digital Transformation pathways.

With the aim of coordinating such significant outcomes with the evolution of manufacturing toward Industry 5.0, the evolution of cloud AI technologies to AI-at-the-Edge, the evolution of Horizon2020 to Horizon Europe, and the evolution of Digital Europe programmes such as EDIH, Data Spaces, and AI TEFs (Testing and Experimentation Facilities) for manufacturing, AI REDGIO 5.0 maintains the momentum of AI technology adoption in Manufacturing SMEs. The H2020 I4MS – AI REGIO partnership between Vanguard EU regions and DIHs will be updated and expanded as part of AI REDGIO 5.0 in order to enable competitive AI-at-the-Edge digital transformation of Industry 5.0 Manufacturing SMEs.

Pentas is developing an AI vision system that monitors oven work on the production floor in real time. Using cameras and smart algorithms, the system tracks operator movements, detects deviations, and provides immediate feedback. This improves product quality, reduces waste, and lowers energy use.

The focus is on tasks where people and machines work together. Instead of replacing workers, AI supports them—helping prevent errors, streamline workflows, and reduce physical strain. This creates a safer, more efficient, and more satisfying working environment.

The project follows the principles of Industry 5.0, where technology serves both people and the planet. We aim to reduce our energy consumption per kilo produced, cut scrap rates by half, and increase output. By simplifying work processes, we also open up opportunities for people with a distance to the labor market.