If you’re in the process of upgrading your manufacturing process to its digital counterparts, or you’re still considering the benefits of making the switch to Industry 4.0, you may be wondering about artificial intelligence. How, exactly, can AI improve efficiency and guide the decision-making process with the data it has collected? If you’re interested in learning how to leverage AI to the fullest in manufacturing, our detailed guide lays it all out.
Predictive Maintenance
Predictive maintenance can help reduce downtime while making sure equipment is functioning to the fullest. With AI-driven predictive analytics, machines can now forecast potential failures or issues before they occur, based on a wealth of historical information and readings from their own sensors.
For example, SAP Digital Manufacturing uses machine learning to predict potential equipment failures, which in turn helps maintenance teams act proactively rather than reactively.
Generative Design and Digital Twins
Generative design uses AI to create a variety of design options based on various commands. The potential of generative design together with digital twins allows manufacturing companies to simulate different production scenarios virtually. This lets manufacturers test out different outcomes and implementations before undergoing a physical overhaul.
Through D4M’s expertise in optimizing manufacturing processes through SAP solutions, manufacturers can take advantage of real-time insights and more efficient processes that, prior to the advent of Industry 4.0, were difficult, if not impossible, to obtain. Using the concept of digital twins makes virtual simulation possible while saving thousands of dollars in the process.
READ MORE: MES in Digital Twin Implementation for Real-Time Monitoring
Quality Control
Quality control is another area where manufacturers can make significant improvements using AI. AI-driven systems are now able to analyze products in real-time to detect defects that go beyond ordinary scratches or dents.
D4M International provides quality control features that help monitor and control product quality at every stage of the production process through the use of DELMIA Apriso. This helps manufacturers adhere to compliance regulations while minimizing risks and maintaining a higher standard of quality.
Supply Chain Optimization
The production process is just one area of manufacturing where AI is delivering fresh, new innovations. Optimizing the entire supply chain is another. Using AI, manufacturers can predict demand and manage inventory levels with a 360-degree view of performance and parts.
SAP Digital Manufacturing and other SAP systems incorporate supply chain optimization and real-time visibility into operations so that companies are able to see when supply chains are disrupted, and quickly adapt to meet demand.
READ MORE: MAXIMIZING ROI WITH SAP IMPLEMENTATION SERVICES
Assembly Line Improvements
AI can help improve the efficiency and productivity of assembly lines by looking at real-time sensor data and performance metrics. SAP, together with D4M’s implementation expertise, delivers real-time production data enabling managers and manufacturers alike to make more confident, more informed decisions based on the data driving their processes.
With all of these benefits to leveraging artificial intelligence in manufacturing, how can companies get started with the process?
How to Implement AI in Manufacturing
We offer a number of helpful guides that are designed to give manufacturers the insights they need to take innovation through digital transformation to the next level. In order to fully integrate AI into the process, keep these steps in mind:
Plan Ahead
The first step to taking advantage of the wealth of knowledge that AI brings to the table is to plan how your organization intends to use it. What are the specific challenges you’re currently facing and how can AI help you face those challenges while staying aligned to business goals?
Data Management
AI must be fully and thoroughly trained on relevant data in order to hit the performance markers needed to handle everything from streamlining efficiency to detecting defects. Make sure that the AI has access to clean, high-quality data for model training.
Model Creation
AI models will need to be developed that align with your specific manufacturing needs. With ongoing training and digital modeling, AI can progressively learn about products and see them from every angle, spotting defects that are undetectable to the human eye, which in turn leads to higher quality standards that build brand and customer loyalty.
Ongoing Testing
Before the AI can be fully deployed and integrated into the system, take the time to validate the model’s performance in a more controlled environment, noting any discrepancies or issues before rolling it out to other systems.
Deployment and Integration
Once the AI has been fully vetted and is consistently performing at its best, take the next step toward full deployment and integration.
At D4M, we specialize in SAP solutions that help manufacturers optimize every stage of their operations. We offer a detailed assessment to help businesses who are considering AI adoption to deliver a clearer picture of your next steps. Our knowledge and experience in also gives manufacturers large and small a complete overview of their operations management, from production to quality assurance, to maintenance and more.
For those manufacturers who are looking to transition to a more efficient digital process, our SAP Digital Manufacturing solutions are built to be affordable, scalable and fully optimizable across the complete supply chain. We offer detailed solutions that track components as they move through the system, as well as integrate systems that proactively notify when machine maintenance may be needed.
READ MORE: HANDLING SAP S/4HANA IMPLEMENTATION CHALLENGES & PAIN POINTS
We’ve helped over 100 businesses bridge the gap and transition to Industry 4.0. From consulting to implementation, our detailed knowledge works with your organizational goals and objectives to make your manufacturing processes ready for the digital transformation and beyond. AI itself is showing no signs of slowing down, and is already becoming more and more integrated in every stage of production and quality assurance. Today’s manufacturers cannot afford to be left behind.
Learn more and connect with us to get detailed, personalized insights on how AI and digital manufacturing solutions can boost your business while increasing productivity and maximizing operations to the fullest.
