For the second time, as part of the “Intertool” event, the Wiener Produktionstechnik Kongress (WPK2014) took place at the Vienna Exhibition Center from May 7 to 8, focusing on the theme “Industry 4.0 – the intelligent factory of the future.”
WPK2014 was organized in collaboration with the Austrian Research and Testing Institute for Welding (Schweißtechnische Zentralanstalt), expanding the block topics of machining, automation, technologies, and machine tools to include welding technology. This extension allowed for a more comprehensive examination of the entire value-added process. In addition to German-language presentations by distinguished representatives from the scientific and industrial sectors in Austria, Germany, and Switzerland, a full-day Technologies block was introduced. This block featured international speakers from countries such as the USA, Canada, Slovenia, and Sweden and was conducted in English. Also included in the Technologies block was a collaboration with the Austrian Economic Chamber (WKÖ) Foreign Trade International Technology Cooperation, where technology delegates from Austrian Foreign Trade Centers in Paris, London, Los Angeles, Tokyo, Moscow, Sao Paulo, and Munich presented new trends in Europe and overseas.
Thanks to these innovations, the number of congress participants doubled, and the feedback surveys reflected a consistently positive assessment.
The congress was complemented once again by a special exhibition in Hall B of the exhibition center, showcasing scientific work by doctoral students from the Institute of Manufacturing Technology and High Performance Laser Technology at TU Wien, as well as exhibits on topics such as 3D printing and electric bicycles.
An unforgettable conclusion to the first day of the congress was provided by the gala dinner in the impressive Central Hall of the Vienna Technical Museum. In addition to a cocktail reception and theme-specific museum tours, guests were treated to a performance by Peter Donhauser, former museum director, who showcased a self-playing electric piano.
