FREEDOM TO THINK…
Top three applications for machine
34 SEPTEMBER 2019
Machine learning
means machines
do not have to
be programmed
to perform exact
tasks on a repetitive basis, they
collect data and use it to make
informed decisions about their next
move. This allows them to correct
any errors and improve their operational
parameters. There are three
key areas where manufacturers can
benefit from this technology.
Industrial
maintenance
According to McKinsey, artificial
intelligence can generate a ten
per cent reduction in maintenance
costs, up to a 20% reduction in
downtime and a 25% reduction in
inspection costs. Machine learning
is a significant player in this positive
impact of artificial intelligence.
In traditional predictive maintenance,
engineers program the
thresholds for a component’s
normal operation into a supervisory
control and data acquisition (SCADA)
system. When the component
deviates from normal operation, the
system alerts an engineer of the
developing fault.
The problem with this approach
is the lack of flexibility. It does not
take into consideration variations
in plant activity or the context of
manufacturing processes. For
example, a system may detect a
sudden increase in a component’s
learning in manufacturing
Allowing people to break away
from monotony and make their
own choices is known to increase
engagement and motivation. A
similar principle can be applied
to machines. Here John Young,
APAC sales director at industrial
parts supplier EU Automation,
shares three ways manufacturers
can benefit from machine
learning technology.
F A C T O R Y