SLM4
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STRUCTURE
4.1 Introduction
4.1.1 Why are AI Applications important in the manufacturing industry?
4.1.2 AI Applications in Manufacturing
4.1.3 The Benefits of Artificial Intelligence in Manufacturing
4.2 Siemens Mindsphere
4.6 Summary
4.7 Keywords
4.8 Self-Assessment Questions
LEARNING OUTCOMES
1. Understand AI applications and benefits in Manufacturing
2. Understand different platforms for Smarter Manufacturing
4.1 INTRODUCTION
Manufacturers routinely deal with issues like unexpected machinery breakdowns or deliveries
of substandard goods. Manufacturers can further their AI transformation by launching new
products, customizing product designs, and planning future financial activities by utilizing
artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning.
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The most common AI use cases in manufacturing are improving, according to the same study:
• Quality (27%)
Manufacturing data's prominence is fueled by the fact that AI and machine learning work well
with it. Manufacturing generates a lot of analytical data that is easier for machines to process.
The production process is impacted by thousands of variables. Humans find it extremely
difficult to diagnose problems, but machine learning models can predict the effects of specific
factors in such intricate circumstances with ease. Machines are still performing below human
levels in other fields that involve language or emotions, which is holding back their adoption.
The COVID-19 epidemic also stoked manufacturers' interest in AI-based solutions. The panic
caused by lockdowns, as shown on the Google Trends graph below, may have compelled
manufacturers to turn their attention to artificial intelligence.
A virtual replica of a real production system is called a digital twin. In the manufacturing
sector, there exist digital twins of certain machinery assets, complete machinery systems, or
particular system components. Digital twins are most frequently used for real-time diagnosis,
process evaluation, product performance prediction, and visualization, among other things.
Data science engineers use supervised and unsupervised machine learning techniques to
process historical and unlabeled data obtained from ongoing real-time monitoring to train
digital twin models on how to optimize the physical system. These algorithms support the
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optimization of maintenance, quality enhancements, and production scheduling.
2. Generative Design:
A program generates some outputs as part of the generative design process in order to satisfy
predetermined requirements. To investigate design options, designers or engineers enter design
goals and parameters into generative design tools, such as materials, manufacturing processes,
and cost limitations. Machine learning techniques are used in the solution to determine what
functions well and poorly after each iteration. Let's look at this Autodesk illustration:
source: https://www.autodesk.com/education/home
The parametric chair's generative design is demonstrated in the above image. The program
discovers numerous ways to build something straightforward, like a chair. The following
requirements must be entered: four legs, a raised seat, weight restrictions, a minimum amount
of materials, etc. The program then generates a range of possibilities. But the software is not
meant to take the role of people. It's yet another illustration of how AI may supplement human
labor.
3. Predictive Maintenance:
By examining the sensor data, manufacturers use AI technology to spot potential downtime
and mishaps. Manufacturers can schedule maintenance and repairs before functional
equipment fails by using AI algorithms to estimate when or if it will malfunction.
Manufacturers can increase productivity while lowering the cost of equipment failure thanks
to AI solutions for predictive maintenance.
Furthermore, by incorporating artificial intelligence into your IoT environment, this richness
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of data might generate different automations. For instance, supervisors are notified when
machinery operators exhibit signs of weariness. The system may automatically start
contingency planning or other reorganization procedures when a piece of equipment
malfunctions.
5. Quality Assurance:
The need for meticulous attention to detail in manufacturing is made even more pressing in the
electronics industry. In the past, checking the quality of the manufacture of electronics and
microprocessors was a laborious task that called for a highly qualified engineer. Its circuits
were all set up properly.
Today's image processing algorithms can check whether a product was manufactured
appropriately automatically. This sorting can be automated and done in real time by placing
cameras at key locations on the production floor.
6. Inventory Management:
Because they are effective at handling demand forecasting and supply planning, machine
learning solutions can boost activities related to inventory planning. Engineers in
manufacturing facilities use standard demand forecasting techniques (ARIMA, exponential
smoothing, etc.), but AI-powered solutions deliver more accurate findings. These solutions
help organizations better control inventory levels, reducing the likelihood of cash-in-stock and
out-of-stock situations.
7. Process Optimization:
Organizations can attain sustainable output levels by optimizing processes with the use of AI-
powered tools. Manufacturers can choose to use AI-powered process mining tools to find and
remove operational bottlenecks. For instance, in the manufacturing sector, timely and correct
delivery to a customer is the ultimate goal. However, creating a reliable distribution system is
challenging if the corporation has multiple plants in various locations. Manufacturers can
analyze the performance of various areas down to specific process steps, including length, cost,
and the person carrying out the step, by using a process mining tool. These insights enable
producers to take action by streamlining operations and locating bottlenecks.
8. Defect Detection:
Many assembly lines today lack the methods and technologies needed to detect flaws across
the whole production process. Even those already in place are fairly simple, necessitating the
creation and hard-coding of algorithms by qualified engineers to distinguish between working
and flawed components.
Many of these systems are currently unable to learn from or incorporate fresh data, which
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causes a great deal of false positives that must be manually ruled out by an employee working
on-site.
By dramatically lowering false positives and the time needed for quality control, manufacturers
can save countless hours by giving this system artificial intelligence and self-learning
capabilities.
1. 24/7 Production:
Because we are biological beings, we require regular upkeep like food and rest. Any production
plant must implement shifts, using three human workers every 24 hours, in order to continue
operating around the clock. Robots are capable of operating on the production line around-the-
clock and don't get hungry or fatigued. This makes it possible to increase production capacity,
which is increasingly important to satisfy the demands of clients around the world. In several
sectors, like the assembly line and the picking and packing departments, robots are also more
effective than humans. In several parts of the business operation, they can greatly shorten
turnaround times.
2. Safety:
People are flawed and prone to error, especially if they are fatigued or preoccupied. On the
manufacturing floor and in any setting for construction or processing, mistakes and accidents
happen, a tendency that AI and robotic aid may almost eliminate. Reducing human resources
is a need, especially when the activity is hazardous or demands superhuman effort. Even
consistent working conditions will reduce industrial accidents and increase safety in general.
Installing safety guards and barriers is now a simpler and more efficient way to safeguard
human life thanks to the integration of more sophisticated sensing equipment with IoT devices.
3. Cost Reduction:
4. Quick Decision-Making:
Predictive maintenance of machinery and equipment is another advantage of AI. Machines can
learn to anticipate faults and malfunctions and take action to correct them before they happen
by using sensors to track performance and operating conditions. Faster feedback may arise
from this, assisting businesses in eliminating unscheduled downtime.
Additionally, sensors have the ability to spot even the smallest flaws by scanning them at
resolutions that are much beyond the range of human eyesight. This increases productivity and
the proportion of products that pass quality control. Applications of AI significantly increase
accuracy and speed up many regular tasks. This eliminates the need for time-consuming and
frequently inaccurate human quality control and in-process inspection.
MindSphere allows organizations to monitor and manage their industrial processes, equipment,
and systems remotely, facilitating predictive maintenance, real-time analytics, and data-driven
decision-making. It supports data integration from a wide range of sources, including sensors,
machines, and other devices, and provides tools for developing custom applications,
dashboards, and analytics solutions.
Data Collection: Gathering data from industrial assets, sensors, and devices to provide
insights into their performance and health.
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Connectivity: Integrating with various industrial protocols, communication standards,
and devices to ensure seamless data exchange.
MindSphere is designed to help companies transition to Industry 4.0 by leveraging the power
of IoT, data analytics, and digital technologies to drive innovation and operational excellence.
It has applications in various industries, including manufacturing, energy, transportation,
healthcare, and more.
Predix is an industrial Internet of Things (IoT) platform developed by General Electric (GE),
now known as GE Digital. It is designed to help industries and businesses collect, analyze, and
utilize data from their industrial equipment and processes to improve operational efficiency
and drive innovation.
Data Collection: Predix enables the collection of data from various industrial assets,
sensors, and devices. This data can include information about equipment performance,
maintenance needs, energy consumption, and more.
Predictive Maintenance: Predix can help predict equipment failures and maintenance
needs by analyzing real-time data, enabling proactive maintenance strategies to reduce
downtime and increase operational efficiency.
Asset Performance Management: The platform offers tools for monitoring and
managing the performance of industrial assets, optimizing their usage, and extending
their lifespan.
FANUC PMC (Programmable Machine Controller) refers to the control system and
programming environment used in FANUC CNC (Computer Numerical Control) systems.
FANUC is a well-known manufacturer of industrial robots, CNC systems, and factory
automation solutions.
The PMC aspect of FANUC systems specifically relates to the programmable logic controller
(PLC) functionality embedded within the CNC system. This allows users to create custom
logic and control functions beyond the standard CNC machining operations. The PMC enables
the implementation of various automation and customization features tailored to specific
manufacturing processes.
Custom Logic: The PMC allows users to develop custom logic and control sequences
to handle specific tasks or implement unique automation processes.
I/O Control: The PMC provides inputs and outputs (I/O) control capabilities, enabling
interaction with external devices, sensors, actuators, and other components in the
manufacturing environment.
Sequencing: Users can program the PMC to execute specific sequences of actions or
operations, which can be particularly useful for complex machining or manufacturing
processes.
Interlocks and Safety: PMC can be used to implement safety interlocks and logic to
ensure safe machine operation and prevent potentially hazardous situations.
Data Handling: The PMC can handle data processing, manipulation, and storage for
various purposes, including part counting, data logging, and more.
Custom User Interfaces: Users can develop custom user interfaces or HMI (Human-
Machine Interface) screens using PMC programming, providing operators with a
tailored way to interact with the CNC system.
Integration: The PMC can integrate with other components of the CNC system, such
as servo drives, spindle drives, and various sensors.
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Programming for FANUC PMC typically involves using a specialized programming language
or environment provided by FANUC. It requires a good understanding of industrial control
systems, PLC programming concepts, and the specific requirements of the manufacturing
processes being automated.
FANUC PMC plays a crucial role in enhancing the flexibility, automation capabilities, and
customization options of FANUC CNC systems, making them suitable for a wide range of
manufacturing applications in industries such as automotive, aerospace, electronics, and more.
KUKA Robotic Software refers to the software ecosystem developed by KUKA AG, a leading
manufacturer of industrial robots and automation solutions. This software suite encompasses
various components that enable the programming, operation, and control of KUKA robots and
robotic systems. KUKA's software offerings cover a range of functionalities, from robot
programming and simulation to process optimization and data analysis. Here are some key
aspects of KUKA Robotic Software:
KUKA Robot Programming Software: This software suite provides tools for
programming KUKA robots to perform specific tasks. It includes user-friendly
programming interfaces, such as the KUKA SmartPad or KUKA KRL (KUKA Robot
Language), which allow users to create, modify, and test robot programs.
KUKA Process Data Management (PDM): This software helps manage and analyze
production and process data from KUKA robots and automation systems. It supports
data-driven decision-making and process optimization.
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KUKA Connectivity Solutions: KUKA offers software solutions for integrating its
robots into various industrial environments and systems, including interfaces for PLC
communication, fieldbus protocols, and higher-level manufacturing execution systems
(MES).
KUKA Control Panels: KUKA's software interfaces include control panels and user
interfaces that operators and programmers use to interact with and control KUKA
robots.
KUKA Robotic Software is designed to enhance the efficiency, flexibility, and performance
of KUKA robotic systems in a wide range of industries, including automotive, aerospace,
manufacturing, logistics, and more. It enables users to streamline robot programming, optimize
processes, improve safety, and achieve greater automation and productivity.
4.6 SUMMARY
Siemens MindSphere:
GE's Predix:
FANUC PMC:
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Programmable Machine Controller within FANUC CNC systems.
4.7 KEYWORDS
IoT: Internet of Things is a network of interconnected physical objects, devices, and sensors
that can communicate and exchange data over the internet, enabling real-time monitoring,
control, and data analysis for improved decision-making.
IIoT: Industrial Internet of Things refers to the application of IoT technologies specifically
in industrial settings, where machines, equipment, and processes are connected to enhance
operational efficiency, predictive maintenance, and overall productivity.
AI: Artificial Intelligence involves the development of computer systems that can perform
tasks that typically require human intelligence, such as problem-solving, learning from
experience, and decision-making, often utilizing algorithms to analyze data and draw insights.
ML: Machine Learning is a subset of AI that focuses on creating algorithms and models that
allow computers to learn from and make predictions or decisions based on data, without being
explicitly programmed.
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CNC: Computer Numerical Control is a manufacturing technology that utilizes computers
to control machines and tools through programmed sequences of instructions, enabling precise
and automated machining processes.
HMI: Human-Machine Interface is a user interface that allows interaction between humans
and machines, typically through visual displays or touchscreens, facilitating control,
monitoring, and communication in various systems.
I/O: Input/Output refers to the communication between a computer or system and external
devices, such as sensors, actuators, or other systems, allowing data to be received and sent.
PDM: Process Data Management involves the collection, storage, and management of data
related to manufacturing processes, facilitating analysis, optimization, and decision-making to
improve efficiency and quality.
Long questions
1. How do Siemens MindSphere, GE's Predix, FANUC PMC, and KUKA Robotic Software
collectively contribute to the overarching concept of Smarter Manufacturing, and how do
they address the evolving needs of modern industrial processes?
Short questions
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4. How does KUKA Robotic Software optimize industrial operations?
6. What are the key features of Siemens MindSphere for data analysis?
2. GE's Predix focuses on leveraging the power of the ______________ to provide predictive
maintenance, asset performance management, and data-driven solutions for smarter
manufacturing.
4. KUKA Robotic Software offers a comprehensive ecosystem for programming and operating
KUKA robots, including simulation tools like ______________ that help optimize robot
programs before real-world deployment.
6. The IoT capabilities of Siemens MindSphere enable the collection of data from industrial
assets, supporting predictive maintenance and real-time ______________ for data-driven
decision-making.
True/ False
1. Siemens MindSphere enables real-time data analysis and decision-making through cloud-
based IoT solutions.
2. GE's Predix focuses solely on asset performance management and does not involve
predictive maintenance.
3. FANUC PMC allows customization of control logic and sequences beyond standard CNC
operations.
4. KUKA Robotic Software does not provide any simulation tools for optimizing robot
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programs before deployment.
6. Siemens MindSphere collects and analyzes data exclusively from consumer devices such
as smartphones and tablets.
a) Real-time data analysis b) Human-Machine Interface (HMI) design c) Custom logic and
control sequences d) Supply chain management
1. Arrange the following steps in the correct order to achieve Smarter Manufacturing with
Siemens MindSphere:
a) Collect and analyze data from industrial assets b) Implement predictive maintenance
strategies c) Develop custom applications and dashboards d) Connect machinery and
equipment to the cloud
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2. Arrange the following features of FANUC PMC in the correct order of their significance
in manufacturing:
a) Creation of custom logic and control sequences b) Integration with industrial devices c)
Data handling and storage d) I/O control capabilities
3. Arrange the steps for programming a KUKA robot using KUKA Robotic Software in the
correct order:
a) Configure I/O settings b) Create custom user interfaces c) Simulate and optimize robot
programs d) Develop control logic and sequences
4. Arrange the following stages of Smarter Manufacturing adoption with GE's Predix in the
correct order:
Answer keys
Fill in the blanks
2. GE's Predix focuses on leveraging the power of the ______________ to provide predictive
maintenance, asset performance management, and data-driven solutions for smarter
manufacturing.
6. The IoT capabilities of Siemens MindSphere enable the collection of data from industrial
assets, supporting predictive maintenance and real-time ______________ for data-driven
decision-making.
True / False
1. Siemens MindSphere enables real-time data analysis and decision-making through cloud-
based IoT solutions.- True
2. GE's Predix focuses solely on asset performance management and does not involve
predictive maintenance.- False
3. FANUC PMC allows customization of control logic and sequences beyond standard CNC
operations.- True
4. KUKA Robotic Software does not provide any simulation tools for optimizing robot
programs before deployment. - False
6. Siemens MindSphere collects and analyzes data exclusively from consumer devices such
as smartphones and tablets. - False
Multiple Choice :
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3. What is a key feature of FANUC PMC?
5. Arrange the following steps in the correct order to achieve Smarter Manufacturing with
Siemens MindSphere:
a) Collect and analyze data from industrial assets b) Implement predictive maintenance
strategies c) Develop custom applications and dashboards d) Connect machinery and
equipment to the cloud
Answer: d) Connect machinery and equipment to the cloud -> a) Collect and analyze data from
industrial assets -> c) Develop custom applications and dashboards -> b) Implement predictive
maintenance strategies
6. Arrange the following features of FANUC PMC in the correct order of their significance
in manufacturing:
a) Creation of custom logic and control sequences b) Integration with industrial devices c)
Data handling and storage d) I/O control capabilities
Answer: d) I/O control capabilities -> c) Data handling and storage -> a) Creation of custom
logic and control sequences -> b) Integration with industrial devices
7. Arrange the steps for programming a KUKA robot using KUKA Robotic Software in the
correct order:
a) Configure I/O settings b) Create custom user interfaces c) Simulate and optimize robot
programs d) Develop control logic and sequences
Answer: d) Develop control logic and sequences -> a) Configure I/O settings -> c) Simulate
and optimize robot programs -> b) Create custom user interfaces
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8. Arrange the following stages of Smarter Manufacturing adoption with GE's Predix in the
correct order:
Answer: b) Collecting data from industrial equipment -> a) Implementing real-time data
analytics -> c) Predicting equipment failures using machine learning -> d) Improving asset
performance and efficiency
Long answers
1. How do Siemens MindSphere, GE's Predix, FANUC PMC, and KUKA Robotic Software
collectively contribute to the overarching concept of Smarter Manufacturing, and how do
they address the evolving needs of modern industrial processes?
Short questions
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2. How does GE's Predix contribute to Smarter Manufacturing?
6. What are the key features of Siemens MindSphere for data analysis?
Suggested reading:
Siemens MindSphere:
Book: "IoT Inc.: How Your Company Can Use the Internet of Things to Win in the Outcome
Economy" by Bruce Sinclair.
GE's Predix:
Book: "Predix Design System: A Guide to Designing and Building Beautiful, Usable, and
Consistent User Experiences" by Predix Design System Team.
https://convercon.com/top-8-ai-applications-in-product-design-product-development/
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