Manufacturers use AI to improve efficiency
Different forms of AI can enable manufacturers to improve efficiency, reduce costs, and increase productivity.
AI is reshaping the manufacturing industry. From predictive maintenance systems to intelligent automation, manufacturers are successfully integrating AI into their workflows.
AI technologies deliver multiple business benefits, including reduced unplanned downtime, improved quality standards, and optimized design and production processes. The overall impact is an increase in operational efficiency and a reduction in business costs.
In this blog, we explore the key types of AI currently used by manufacturers.
Symbolic AI
Symbolic AI is a more traditional rules-based approach. It relies on human knowledge, using pre-defined rules and decision trees to determine outputs. It can speed up and simplify time-consuming tasks, with actions determined by symbols and rules.
Use cases: CAD automation
Machine learning AI
Machine learning AI uses algorithms to learn from data and predict outcomes. It’s used to analyze production, machine, and product data. The more data available, the more accurate the machine learning outcome.
Use cases: Predictive maintenance, quality control
Deep learning AI
Deep learning AI is a form of machine learning that teaches computers to carry out tasks by learning from images, text, and sounds. Artificial neural networks learn from large amounts of data to replicate the way a human brain responds.
Use cases: Robotics, predictive maintenance, digital twins
Reinforcement learning AI
Reinforcement learning is another form of machine learning where algorithms enable machines to learn from experience and make decisions based on feedback. It’s a technique that trains software to make decisions based on the optimal output.
Use cases: Analyzing sensor data, resource optimization, energy management
AI use cases in manufacturing
1. Predictive maintenance
By analyzing sensor data, AI systems predict when equipment is likely to fail, enabling manufacturers to develop effective maintenance plans and perform timely maintenance activities. This reduces machine downtime, ensures production lines keep running, and enables manufacturers to meet production requirements.
2. Supply chain optimization
AI enables manufacturers to handle large volumes of data that can be used to forecast demand, optimize logistics, and manage stock levels effectively. This level of insight enables manufacturers to predict and manage materials shortages, moving to alternative suppliers or materials when necessary, and ensuring reliable delivery of production materials.
3. Production schedule optimization
Using AI to analyze large volumes of order data enables manufacturers to understand customer demand and the impact on machine and workforce capacity. With a clearer, data-driven understanding of customer demand across products, time periods, and markets, manufacturers can easily identify patterns of demand and adjust their production schedules accordingly.
4. Improving quality control
AI-powered quality control systems identify defects earlier in the production process with quality inspection tools using computer vision to continuously monitor and analyze products. This provides a more effective means of quality control than manual inspection and provides consistency in quality standards.
5. Energy management
AI systems analyze energy consumption to optimize usage and help to meet sustainability targets. For example, in temperature-controlled manufacturing facilities, AI systems can analyze data from HVAC systems to adjust output and effectively regulate factory temperatures.
DriveWorks design automation with rules-driven technology
DriveWorks design automation solution combines the power of engineering logic with intelligent automation.
Pre-defined engineering rules and logic are used to automate “same but different” design variations.
Design automation solutions, powered by rules-driven technology, increase efficiency and save costs.
Integrating design automation into your design process enables your teams to work smarter, making your business more flexible, efficient, and competitive. Regardless of your business size or the sector that you work in, design automation can give you a significant competitive advantage.