Artificial intelligence and big data are transforming the manufacturing sector
Artificial intelligence (AI) and big data are emerging as major catalysts for the modern-era industrial revolution. These technologies are not only impacting our daily lives, but are also redefining the way one of the fundamental pillars of the global economy, i.e. the manufacturing sector, operates.
In Mexico, this industry represents a major percentage of foreign investment. The automotive, machinery and equipment, metal sectors, as well as the production of food, beverages, and tobacco; They have reached more than 60% of the Gross Domestic Product (GDP).
Although the manufacturing sector suffered a slowdown in 2023 caused by the efforts carried out to emerge from the crisis marked by the pandemic in 2020, a rebound is estimated for 2024. Technology acts as a major pillar in this scenario, and the adoption of artificial intelligence and big data is presented as a crucial boost for the reactivation and continuous reinforcing of the manufacturing industry in Mexico.
The impact of artificial intelligence
The artificial intelligence integration in manufacturing is not merely an addition to production lines but an Industry 4.0 revolution. From process optimization to maintenance prediction, AI is unleashing its potential to enhance efficiency and reduce production costs.
AI is impacting the sector in areas such as:
● Process optimization. By applying advanced algorithms, artificial intelligence analyzes large data sets in real-time, identifying patterns and trends that would be inaccessible to conventional methods. This deep analysis provides for dynamic adjustments in production, improving operational efficiency and reducing resource waste.
● Maintenance prediction. By constantly monitoring equipment and machinery, artificial intelligence can foresee potential failures before they occur, allowing preventative maintenance to be performed instead of remedial actions. This approach minimizes unplanned downtime as well as optimizes asset life, thereby maximizing return on investment.
● Creating intelligent and interconnected manufacturing environments. Advanced automation, supported by artificial intelligence, facilitates seamless collaboration between machines, systems, and processes. This not only enhances efficiency but also opens the door to more flexible and adaptable production models, capable of quickly addressing ever-changing market challenges.
The fundamental role of big data
For its part, big data extends unprecedented insight into operational performance. Collecting and analyzing large volumes of data in real-time enables manufacturers to identify patterns, forecast trends, and make informed decisions. Big data unlocks new possibilities for innovation and competitiveness in the manufacturing sector in aspects such as:
● Supply chain management. The collection and analysis of large amounts of data allows real-time visibility of the entire chain, from production to delivery to the customer. This optimizes inventory management, enhances supply chain efficiency, and facilitates data-driven decision making to anticipate and mitigate potential disruptions.
● Quality control. This technology has significantly improved quality control by providing for continuous and detailed monitoring of production processes. Real-time data collection during manufacturing allows patterns and trends to be identified, facilitating early detection of potential defects or problems.
● Innovative product design. Big data provides valuable information on consumer preferences, market trends, and the performance of existing products. Analyzing large data sets allows companies to better understand customer needs, leading to more user-centered design. It further facilitates continuous feedback, allowing real-time adjustments and improvements as products are developed and released to the market.
Where to launch digital transformation?
Breaking into these technologies can be overwhelming for many companies, especially those having no prior experience in the field. It is, therefore, advisable to enlist the support of experts in the area such as Ikusi who, through a personalized analysis, have the ability to design tailored solutions that integrate smoothly into the companies’ operations. Start your own technological revolution by entering here.