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Peter Potters, Product Manager at Festo, explains how artificial intelligence (AI) has a positive impact on machine control.
AI is developing rapidly and the possibilities seem endless. At Festo, a specialist in industrial automation, we see AI as a powerful tool that offers many advantages for machine builders and end users. By integrating AI into automation products, we improve performance and functionality.
Machine learning, in particular, is increasingly being used in production environments. The biggest advantage? Predictability. AI can analyse huge amounts of data and predict unexpected events or malfunctions. This enhances predictive maintenance and increases Overall Equipment Effectiveness (OEE), leading to greater efficiency, lower costs and better product quality.
At Festo, we want companies of all sizes to benefit from innovative technologies such as AI. That is why we enable OEMs to quickly implement new business models without years of development time.
AI is not just for new devices and controllers. Retrofit solutions are also available for existing systems. Many of our AI applications work with current production lines. Sometimes additional sensors are required, but AI devices can often function in retrofit mode. This applies in particular to predictive maintenance, which depends on digital monitoring.
A simple example: a ‘dumb’ component can become smart with a QR code. By scanning it, it is linked to a digital twin in a structured database. Such components form the building blocks for smart machines.
The interaction between humans and AI – the human-machine interface – is crucial for adoption. Users must see AI as a complement to their expertise, not a replacement. Interaction usually takes place via a dashboard with clear data. In predictive maintenance, for example, AI helps link PLC I/O to specific drives. But human skills remain necessary for on-site adjustments and repairs.
AI will increasingly contribute to overall production performance. Its insights and recommendations improve decision-making and optimise processes. The technology is already here. Festo Automation Experience (Festo AX) offers software solutions for production lines and standalone applications. These enable companies to increase productivity, save energy, prevent quality loss and develop new business models through data analysis.
AI is not only a technological evolution, but also an organisational one. IT and operations must work together to realise its full potential. Employees must learn about AI and experience its benefits for themselves. An AI-driven business model requires new skills and a different mindset – but it is essential to remain competitive.
AI will transform machine control with unprecedented efficiency, predictability and optimisation. The technology is available and helps manufacturers produce smarter, making optimal use of human knowledge and skills. At Festo, we continue to drive technical progress and support our customers in exploring the possibilities of AI.
