Ahead of The Pack: Artificial Intelligence in Automation and Controls
AI Is being used in a plethora of ways to enhance life as we see it! It is truly interesting too see what it has become capable of specifically in Automation Processes. But the question remains – just how far will AI go?
In our most recent Youtube Short we overview AI’s impact on both society today, and industry!
With AI technology advancing at an unprecedented rate, businesses are experiencing a revolution in the way they operate and optimize their processes. We will explore three pivotal ways in which the automation and controls industry is undergoing transformation with the advent of AI, leading to heightened efficiency, improved productivity, and enhanced decision-making capabilities.
AI Market Value: 2022-2030 (Projected)
AI technology is becoming a normality in many industries, and will be a major component of business growth over the next decade
AI in manufacturing goes to maintenance
The tech senses when machinery is behaving irregularly (even the slightest changes) and will notify operators of these imbalances for potential repair
manufacturers haven't adopted digital operating systems
However, those that have report extreme increases in productivity, cost-reduction, and customer satisfaction
Enhanced Efficiency through Intelligent Automation:
AI has significantly impacted the automation and controls industry by enabling enhanced efficiency through intelligent automation. Traditionally, automation systems relied on predetermined rules and algorithms to execute tasks. However, the integration of machine learning and deep learning algorithms into these systems has brought AI to the forefront, enabling them to adapt and learn from real-time data.
By harnessing AI, automation and control systems can now scrutinize vast volumes of data, detect patterns, and make informed decisions without human intervention. Consequently, this leads to streamlined operations, reduced downtime, and overall improved efficiency.
Predictive Maintenance
AI-powered predictive maintenance systems can monitor equipment conditions, identify anomalies, and schedule maintenance activities, effectively preventing unexpected failures and optimizing productivity. A tech and engineering service firm based in Sacramento (CA) used an application of AI on a food packaging line. This application monitored the process of various equipment, and noticed over time that the “average torque of a servo-motor had been increasing over time” thus flagging the machinery for inspection that allowed them to service the machine before failure. Instances such as this, over a period of time can be overlooked through human error thus highlighting the value in an AI based monitoring system.
Real-Time Optimization and Decision-Making:
AI empowers automation and control systems to make real-time optimizations and data-driven decisions, allowing businesses to swiftly respond to dynamic market conditions. By integrating AI algorithms into control systems, industries can harness the power of predictive analytics and machine learning to optimize various processes.
In manufacturing, for example, AI-based control systems can analyze real-time data from sensors, machinery, and other sources to optimize production parameters, minimize waste, and enhance quality control. An example of this, is Tianjin FengYu, a systems integrator in China who used Ai to develop a multivariable inspection model for ramen noodle production. The created model has the capability to decide whether the seasoning packets were placed correctly on the noodle blocks during production. Thus allowing for operators to act on misplaced or cut packets in a cost effective manner.
Human-Machine Collaboration:
Contrary to popular concerns regarding job displacement, AI is revolutionizing the automation and controls industry by facilitating seamless collaboration between humans and machines. Instead of replacing human workers, AI technologies augment their capabilities, allowing them to focus on higher-value tasks that necessitate creativity, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills.
By combining human intelligence with machine capabilities, several benefits arise. First, human-machine collaboration optimizes efficiency by offloading mundane, repetitive tasks to machines, allowing humans to focus on more complex and strategic responsibilities. This leads to improved productivity and reduced human error. Second, machines can augment human capabilities, enhancing precision, speed, and quality in manufacturing processes. Third, by utilizing AI and machine learning algorithms, machines can continuously learn from human input and data, enabling them to improve performance over time.
Moreover, human-machine collaboration promotes worker safety by delegating hazardous or physically demanding tasks to machines, reducing the risk of accidents and injuries. It also opens up new opportunities for workers, as they can acquire skills to operate and maintain advanced manufacturing technologies, leading to upskilling and higher job satisfaction.
Conclusion:
The automation and controls industry is experiencing a remarkable transformation with the integration of AI. Intelligent automation, real-time optimization, and human-machine collaboration are reshaping the industry landscape, unlocking new levels of efficiency, productivity, and decision-making capabilities. By embracing AI technologies, businesses are poised to gain a competitive edge by harnessing the power of data, advanced analytics, and intelligent automation systems. The future of the automation and controls industry is undeniably thrilling, and embracing AI is the key to unleashing its full potential.
AI was even used to help write this blog post!
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Sources:
Koelsch, James R. “When Artificial Intelligence Comes to Control | Automation World.” When Artificial Intelligence Comes to Control, www.automationworld.com/factory/iiot/article/21545091/artificial-intelligence-benefits-in-control-applications.
Smith, J. (2022). The Impact of Artificial Intelligence on Industrial Automation. Medium.
Sharma, A. (2021). Role of Artificial Intelligence in Control Systems. LinkedIn.