Navigating AI: 5 game-changing applications in manufacturing
August 17, 2023
Updated on: August 17, 2023
3 min read
Streamlining Customer Support
AI-powered chatbots are revolutionizing customer support in manufacturing by providing 24/7 service, instant responses, and constant support. Companies like Jaguar Land Rover use robots that are powered by AI to answer customer questions faster and more effectively. By mimicking human-like interactions, these chatbots provide personalized experiences, leading to an increase in customer satisfaction.
The tracking and analysis of customer service interactions can be improved with the help of artificial intelligence in customer support. AI can help companies make changes to their goods and services based on what it learns. This is formed on consumer behavior, trends, and feedback, creating a more customer-centric approach.
Predictive Maintenance in Manufacturing
AI helps manufacturers shift from reactive maintenance to preventive maintenance. This cuts downtime and saves money. AI is used by companies like Rolls-Royce to predict when their engines might need to be serviced. By identifying patterns in data and predicting potential failures, AI allows manufacturers to service their equipment before problems arise.
Also, when AI is combined with IoT devices, machine success can be tracked in real-time. Collecting data such as vibration, temperature, and sound to predict potential malfunctions. This approach extends the life of machines and boosts output.
AI in Quality Control and Inspection
AI-powered vision systems can check goods faster and more accurately than human eyes. This results in improved product quality and decreased inspection costs. General Electric uses robots that are both automatic and intelligent to check the quality of each part. Machine vision and AI programs are built into these robots so they can find flaws that a human eye might miss.
AI-powered robots and drones can also inspect hard-to-reach or hazardous areas, enhancing safety while driving high-quality standards. As product complexity grows in fields like automotive and aerospace, this level of accuracy is becoming more and more important.
Improving Supply Chain Management
AI is being used to optimize the supply chain by improving accuracy in demand forecasting, inventory management, and logistics. Unilever, a global manufacturer of consumer goods, uses AI for supply chain optimization and to predict future demand. By processing large datasets, AI can uncover patterns and trends that humans might miss. This makes it possible to make more accurate predictions and run the supply chain more efficiently.
Additionally, AI can aid in supplier selection. Using data from the past to rate suppliers on their reliability, speed of delivery, product quality, and cost. This ensures that manufacturers can make informed decisions and build supply chains that are strong and reliable.
AI in Employee Training and Knowledge Sharing
AI is shaping employee training programs by personalizing content and adapting to individual learning styles. Lockheed Martin, for example, uses AI-powered virtual reality (VR) for training its new employees. The VR system provides a realistic, immersive experience, allowing employees to learn and practice skills in a safe setting.
Further, AI can foster knowledge sharing by creating smart content repositories. AI algorithms can curate and categorize information, making it easier for employees to find and access knowledge when needed. This not only makes people more productive but also fosters a culture of continuous learning and improvement.
AI is more than a buzzword; it is a vital tool for the modern manufacturing industry. From streamlining customer support to predictive maintenance. Improving quality control to optimizing supply chain management, and enhancing employee training. AI is redefining manufacturing norms and setting the stage for a future where intelligent machines and humans work in harmony.
Manufacturers who adopt AI stand to gain from it, in terms of productivity, creativity, and growth. Therefore, they position themselves for long-term success in an increasingly competitive global landscape.
As we move forward, it's vital to continue exploring the benefits of AI in manufacturing. As well as, adopting AI technologies to remain at the forefront of this technological revolution. Thus, meeting the evolving demands of the modern marketplace.
Hungry for more? Head on over to my blog “The Smart Part” - There’s nothing artificial about the intelligence you’ll find there! Or, if you’d rather get down to business, ask me how I can help you streamline your parts procurement process!
