It seems you can’t go anywhere these days without hearing about the rise of artificial intelligence (AI). Artificial intelligence (AI) has advanced tremendously in recent years, impacting every industry and revolutionizing the way we work. Advanced programming enables machines to learn and adapt to their surroundings, increases efficiency and improves safety. Engineers who work for original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) can prepare for an AI-led future by exploring autonomous equipment designs. There are many benefits to this transition. 

“We’ve seen our partners in Japan be able to streamline manual labor by integrating automation and AI into their equipment designs,” says Product Manager Cheryl Mailloux. “Automation has proven to save time and money.” 

How does autonomous machinery increase efficiency? 

One of the primary benefits of self-driving equipment or AI-driven robotics is increased efficiency. There are three main efficiencies gained: 

1. Automation & Precision
2. Data-Driven Decision Making
3. Adaptability

Automation and Precision: AI-powered equipment enables precise, error-free task execution. Autonomous equipment analyzes data in real-time, makes informed decisions, and minimizes human errors and safety incidents. When used in warehouses, nearly all tasks can be automated using advanced programming systems, self-driving vehicles and forklift automation systems. Automating agricultural equipment increases operator uptime and eliminates errors.

Data-Driven Decision Making: Autonomous machinery yields abundant operational data, enabling algorithms to optimize efficiency through pattern recognition, data-driven decision-making and streamlined workflows. This boosts productivity, profitability and safety. 

Adaptability: Self-Driving Machines that can learn and adapt to their surroundings can complete tasks quicker and more accurately than humans. This means higher productivity levels and reduced labor costs. Manufacturing plants using automated assembly achieve more efficient production lines.  

How does automated machinery improve safety?

The term “self-driving” can raise questions about safety, as most of us are worried about the loss of control. However, autonomous machinery has proven time and again to improve safety. The three main ways AI-driven machinery leads to increased safety are:

1. Taking on Risky and Dangerous Tasks 
   
2. Enhanced Perception and Object Recognition 
3. Predictive Maintenance 

Taking on Risk and Dangerous Tasks: Autonomous machines offer a solution to hazardous tasks, such as those in the construction industry. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, 70 forklift related deaths and over 7,200 injuries that resulted in days away from work were reported in 2020.¹  In agricultural crop production, 247 deaths were reported in 2020² and over 3,000 injuries.³ By utilizing autonomous vehicles, we can enhance worker safety, boost profitability, and minimize risks to human operators.

Enhanced Perception and Object Recognition: AI-powered machinery has superior perception, enabling more accurate object recognition, obstacle detection and precise navigation, at a faster pace than a human can identify. This ensures safe operation in dynamic environments, avoiding collisions and accidents.  

Predictive Maintenance: AI algorithms predict maintenance needs by monitoring real-time data and enabling proactive maintenance. Analyzing sensor data and detecting patterns, the advanced programming prevents failures, reduces downtime and enhances safety. 

“Anderson has deep expertise in providing power and signaling for customers with the end-goal of making their equipment safer and more efficient,” says General Manager Bill Estes. “It’s really a win-win-win for the engineers, customers and the equipment operators.” 

Anderson Power is ready for an AI-driven future. Our team stays ahead of the trends so that when you’re ready to power your equipment designs, we’re ready with what you need. If you’d like to discuss your automated equipment design and how we can power it, we’d love to connect with you.  

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