The 2013 edition of the Hannover Fair wrapped up today in Hannover Germany. From April 8^th through the 12^th, hundreds of thousands of visitors descended on the northern German city to see the latest cutting-edge technology in industrial automation, energy, motion control, as well as research and technology, among others.

In the motion control arena, there were several areas of focus including motion-related products such as innovations in direct-drive motors and systems in many industrial applications. Here, Stober introduced a new ServoFit planetary gear. The motor coupling for the attachment of servo standard motors is fully integrated in the housing, making it free of external couplings.

There was also plenty of talk about the so-called Industry 4.0, what some are saying is the next industrial revolution, which chiefly refers to the increased networking within and between machines. While there are many benefits that come from increased network connectivity, the dangers are equally to be considered, such as the ease with which industrial networks can be attacked, and therefore the need for better security measures and the need to further partner with IT departments, a topic I covered in an earlier blog post here.

Closely related to the Industry 4.0 idea is the sudden interest in energy efficiency. This year there was also an entire hall devoted to energy efficiency, dubbed the “Efficiency Arena,” with forums and events devoted to energy systems and sustainable manufacturing.