Manufacturing Today Issue - 222 March 2024 | Page 22

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with the assistance of AI , manufacturers can achieve unprecedented levels of product consistency and reduce the margin of error to near-zero .
These advancements can also handle and eliminate repetitive , data-driven tasks , freeing up human workers for the highervalue , creative and complex aspects of design and make . Efficient human-machine collaboration can lead to innovative problemsolving and foster a work environment where human intuition complements AI ’ s advanced analytical capabilities . This synergy is expected to in turn break down siloed workforces and result in a more agile and responsive manufacturing industry .
Streamlining supply chains with predictive maintenance
Moreover , another transformative quality of AI in manufacturing is its ability to implement predictive maintenance strategies . Traditional practices are often reactive , leading to unexpected downtimes and increased costs . AI , on the other hand , can predict when a machine is likely to fail based on sensor inputs , machine learning algorithms , and historical data . By implementing predictive maintenance , manufacturers can pre-emptively schedule repairs and replacements at optimal times , preventing costly breakdowns and minimizing production disruptions and downtime . Importantly , this not only improves the overall efficiency of manufacturing processes but also extends the lifespan of machinery , resulting in substantial cost savings .
Leveraging generative design for scalable customization
AI-driven adaptive manufacturing is positioned to usher in a new era of customization at scale . Previously , mass production methods have limited the degree of customization that manufacturers can offer . However , new generative AI capabilities such as automated drawings enable conceptual design exploration , with 3D models that can be rapidly created in milliseconds and edited in real-time .
Here , the technology pulls from a company ’ s library of past work to rapidly generate new concepts that build on existing design styles and guidelines . This means machines can provide intelligent assistance that adapts to changing parameters , produces customized products efficiently , and allows customers to imagine and explore freely . At the same time , industrial designers
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