Research Center for Supervision, Safety and Automatic Control

Xarxa Fourth Industrial Revolution (Xarxes) [XaFIR]

The Xarxa XaFIR is a competitive R&D&I project dedicated to research, development, and innovation in the field of Industry 4.0 in Catalonia. Led by the MCIA - Group of Electric Drives and Industrial Applications Research, this initiative brings together key stakeholders in the region to promote the valorization and transfer of knowledge to the productive sector, with special emphasis on small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs).

Objectives and Vision

The Xarxa XaFIR aims to transform the Catalan industrial fabric through the massive implementation of Industry 4.0 technologies, acting as a key player in the fourth industrial revolution and establishing itself as a European benchmark. Among its specific objectives, the following stand out:

  • Promote the transfer of knowledge in the form of products and services to the productive sector.
  • Coordinate valorization and transfer activities with other public and private initiatives.
  • Encourage interdisciplinary collaboration and the development of joint projects.
  • Provide support in identifying funding opportunities for R&D&I projects.
  • Implement training actions in valorization and technology transfer.
  • Create a technological innovation environment through living-labs and an Innovation HUB for Industry 4.0.
Impact and Expected Results

With a network consisting of 10 entities from the university system, research and technology centers, and a total of 35 research groups with nearly 400 researchers, the Xarxa XaFIR expects significant impacts:

  • Increase R&D&I projects and agreements signed with the industry by 25%.
  • Increase the number of patents registered by 45%.
  • Increase the creation of EBT companies with researchers’ involvement by 30%.
Funding and Duration

The project, with a total budget of €795,000, was developed from July 1, 2020 to December 31, 2022. Funded through the Research and Innovation Strategy for Smart Specialization of Catalonia (RIS3CAT), the project is part of the RIS3CAT program, under the R&D&I Networks call, managed by the Agency for the Management of University and Research Grants (AGAUR).

Areas of Action and Collaboration

The Xarxa XaFIR covers key areas such as collaborative robotics, cyber-physical systems, data simulation and analytics, augmented reality, digital manufacturing, Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT), and cybersecurity. It also prioritizes collaboration with other regional initiatives and networks in related fields, such as Advanced Manufacturing and Energy.

Thanks to this joint effort, Xarxa XaFIR consolidates itself as a driver of technical and economic development in Catalonia, boosting innovation and competitiveness in the industrial sector through advanced research in Industry 4.0.