The manufacturing industry has always aimed for maximum productivity. Therefore, it is not surprising that promising innovations in this area find fertile ground. This has been the case with automation, later with robotics, and finally with the digital transformation initiated by Industry 4.0. Currently, the dominant trend is undoubtedly that ofGenerative Artificial Intelligence, also known as generative AI or generative AI. But what impact can it have on the manufacturing sector? Let’s try to find out.

Generative AI: a few definitions for greater understanding

When discussing artificial intelligence applied to businesses, some important clarifications need to be made, especially since the concept is not new. For example, Machine Learning, a branch of artificial intelligence, has been known and established in the business context for some time, as has the use of certain AI tools for data analysis.

Generative artificial intelligence is a subset of tools that, rather than focusing on managing, classifying and exploiting data, creates new data. In the consumer market, it has gained popularity for text and image generation, but it can be used to create any type of content, from automated responses in customer chats to designs to the generation of synthetic datasets.

The potential applications are numerous, and although this is still a relatively pioneering area, the market is expanding rapidly: it¹s estimated to grow by 42 percent annually through 2032.

Applications of generative AI in the manufacturing sector

Generative AI has considerable potential, but identifying practical applications can be complex given its versatility. Below are some of the possible applications that can already be implemented in the manufacturing sector today.

Reduced time to market

One of the areas where generative AI can lend greater support to manufacturing is in the speed with which a product can reach the market. In fact, generative AI can support accelerated prototyping, enabling the rapid creation of numerous preliminary models. In addition, it can  speed up the testing phase due to its ability to simulate operational scenarios with efficiency.

Simulations through Digital Twin

The use of generative AI in the field of digital twins, i.e., the creation of digital models for analysis and testing, allows the generation of synthetic data to test models without being limited to historical data or the inventiveness of testers. This broadens the possibilities for analysis and contributes to more effective products.

Turning data into value

An interesting aspect of generative AI, especially in its conversational component, is the ability to provide detailed analysis or summaries from complex data sets. Linking this system to the corporate data-lake greatly enriches the level of analysis, making the data accessible even to those without specific training, allowing it to be used by all business figures.

Corporate knowledge management

In addition to production aspects, generative AI can have great value in enterprise knowledge management. Starting with the tools of  office automation to simplify bureaucratic and administrative work up to and including historical access to the list of repairs performed on a piece of machinery, the ability to access in a natural, with simple questions to business knowledge is undoubtedly facilitating efficiency and effectiveness.

Product design and development

Despite doubts about the quality of creative content generated by AI, its ability to produce in quantity is indisputable. Generative AI can therefore support the  creation of variations on previous models or the development of new products.

Production planning and inventory management

Generative artificial intelligence models can create different production scenarios, support demand forecasting, and help logistics find ideal inventory levels. For example, historical customer data can be used to anticipate demand-this helps create more accurate production plans and better manage inventory and supplies. Generative models can generate different scenarios taking into account factors such as demand fluctuation, accessibility of resources and raw materials, any critical indicators in the supply chain.

Supply chain management support

The phenomenon known as Supply Chain Disruption has created an unprecedented situation for the manufacturing industry. In addition, issues such as ethics and sustainability are making choices regarding supply and the value chain in general increasingly complex.

Today more than ever, in short, it is necessary to have overall visibility into the entire procurement ecosystem, something in which generative AI can help by managing complexity and enabling choice in light of a larger number of factors, from the quality of supply to the sustainability criteria used.

Generative AI in manufacturing: what might be the best strategies for your company?

We have explored some of the key benefits that using generative AI can bring to the manufacturing sector, but what technologies are appropriate for your business needs?

Attend our event “Choose the Right AI for Your Business” on April 9, 2024 in Regesta and learn about the potential of Generative Artificial Intelligence and the best strategies for integrating it into industrial processes.

Reserve your free seat now and learn more from the voice of experts about success stories and best practices.

Note ¹: scoop.market.us, Generative AI In Manufacturing Market.