Artificial intelligence applications in industry 4.0

Although the term “artificial intelligence” was invented in 1956 during a scientific conference at Dartmouth University (United States), its development is relatively more recent. Having become essential, this new technology now offers numerous opportunities to companies wishing to transform their activities and optimize their production operations. How can AI applications, like Chat GPT, help Industry 4.0 factories? The point in this article.

Process optimization with AI

An artificial intelligence application can first analyze data from different systems and equipment used within the company, whether for production, logistics or inventory management . It will then be able to identify loss of yield, problems and other bugs, which constitute bottlenecks and lead to inefficiency in the production processes put in place. Armed with this information, the company will then be able to draw the necessary conclusions and implement an action plan to optimize production and boost quality.

AI training and support

A prototype of a conversational agent based on artificial intelligence can be used to train workers on equipment and production processes, for example through training programs written and accessible to any new employee of the company. These can be personalized according to the positions and experience level of the person concerned.

An AI application is also able to provide real-time assistance during the execution of technical and specific tasks, to ensure their successful completion. Employees can further interact with the app for detailed step-by-step instructions, including troubleshooting or maintenance. This last option also applies to their questions about the production line, equipment or safety standards in force within the factory. The information is thus extracted from existing databases or generated by experts in the field.

Equipment monitoring via AI

As part of the implementation of IoT platforms within the company, an artificial intelligence application can be used to monitor production equipment in real time, thanks to the sensors placed on them. The data will thus be sent directly to the AI, which will then analyze it to detect anomalies or performance problems.

Data analysis in the same way, you should know that an artificial intelligence application remains capable of analyzing immense quantities of data, then detecting trends or patterns that would be difficult to identify for a To be human. It is therefore a valuable tool for analyzing and monitoring performance , as well as for decision-making. AI can also provide predictive analyzes of production or simulate hypothetical scenarios based on different objectives and projects.

Predictive maintenance using AI

An artificial intelligence application can be trained on maintenance data to predict equipment or machine failures before they occur. In practice, this involves providing maintenance data, including error logs and inspection reports, to train it, which will then allow it to identify warning signs of problems. Technicians can then carry out repairs before the breakdown occurs.

The Impact of Artificial Intelligence on Logistics

Artificial intelligence (AI) is radically transforming the field of logistics , offering innovative solutions to optimize supply chains and improve operational efficiency. AI algorithms enable more accurate demand forecasts, helping businesses better plan inventory and reduce costs associated with overstocking or stock-outs. Additionally, AI systems can automate sorting and warehouse management processes, increasing the speed and accuracy of operations. Autonomous vehicles and industrial drones , powered by AI, are also revolutionizing the delivery of goods, offering faster and often less expensive solutions. Furthermore, AI improves product traceability in real time, enabling better risk management and faster response to disruptions. By integrating these advanced technologies, logistics companies can not only reduce costs but also provide superior customer service, thereby strengthening their competitiveness in the overall market.

Quality control using AI

You can also use an artificial intelligence application for quality defect identification when it analyzes product images or videos. Computer vision models can thus be trained using existing inspection data to detect anomalies and inform production operators.

Automating tasks with AI

It is possible to use a natural language application to automate certain repetitive and time-consuming tasks , which will allow employees normally responsible for carrying them out to concentrate on more strategic and higher value-added missions. This is particularly the case for the following points:

- Customer service: a well-configured chatbot or virtual assistant responds in writing to common customer questions, while providing information on the company's products and services in record time. These tools can also be configured to route requests to the right people or departments

- Document management: an artificial intelligence application can help sort, organize and classify documents and reports, using natural language processing techniques to extract key information, before organizing them into folders

- Data entry or report writing: after training the model on this point with precise instructions, the latter will be able to carry out these repetitive tasks quickly and efficiently

- Recruitment: a program of this type can be used to carry out an initial filtering of CVs and cover letters received for a position, always according to the criteria defined by the company. This solution allows the company to minimize the time and costs associated with recruitment

Artificial intelligence applications therefore embody excellent support for humans within Industry 4.0 and are fundamental pillars for the transition to the next industrial phase, Industry 5.0 . By streamlining flow, they increase operational efficiency, reduce training or maintenance costs , while improving overall business productivity. Do not hesitate to contact one of our advisors at Digital Factory if you would like more information on this subject!

Explore the latest AI applications for Industry 4.0 that can transform your production process and make it more efficient.

To find out more, consult  The Industry of the Future: Artificial Intelligence and Latest Technologies at the Heart of Transformation