Artificial intelligence has been the new buzzword for many manufacturing industries. And, the custom metal fabrication industry has not been left untouched by this looming revolution. Here’s a look at some ways in which AI might change metal fabrication in the near future:
AI’s Impact on the Custom Metal Fabrication Industry
- Production
When looking at how AI might change an industry, the largest factor to take into consideration might be production. Machines like robots and computers differ from their human counterparts because they don’t get tired, sick or bored. Also, they don’t need as much time off as we do. This means that they can work longer and more accurately than humans, which increases the output of any given process and drives down production cost and delivery times.
However, machines aren’t coming for all human jobs, just yet. Humans still outperform machines in tasks that require complex thinking processes. Although AI will allow a machine signal when maintenance is required, for the foreseeable future, people will still be performing repairs and maintenance on machines, and we’ll still be designing parts and processes to achieve specific goals.
As AI technology develops, simple tasks may be taken over by machines, leaving humans to perform complex tasks that require flexibility and cognitive processes, which is something machines do not yet possess.
- Safety
As global awareness and compliance with health and safety regulations increase, manufacturing industries are becoming safer for human workers. Where the handling of dangerous chemicals and tools involved, as well as precision in tasks required, machines can eliminate a lot of the risk from the environment. Machines are more accurate, they can handle hazardous environments, and they can be replaced when a malfunction occurs.
AI will contribute greatly to the increased safety for workers not only by performing simple but hazardous activities, but also by anticipating and warning human controllers when a safety hazard might present itself.
- Competition
Safer environments and increased production will be in the grasp of smaller manufacturers, giving them a more level playing field thanks to AI. Instead of massive labour forces needed in mechanical engineering and manufacturing companies, AI can take over the tasks that humans traditionally needed to fulfill, bringing down costs and creating growth opportunities. Smaller businesses will be able to use AI to “teach” machines to perform tasks that will take humans much longer to master.
By allowing small businesses to expand without the traditional overhead costs, there will be more opportunities for businesses to compete in the manufacturing sector, which will improve the quality and service for the industry at large.
At Rider Tool and Manufacturing Co., we strive to incorporate the latest technological advances in our processes to the advantage of our clients. For cutting edge custom metal fabrication, contact us today.