AI has gained tremendous commendation and attention in various applications, such as voice recognition, product recommendations, image search, and others. However, computer vision AI is like a magic version of AI in the manufacturing industry. Manufacturing companies are leveraging this technology to gain a competitive edge.
Computer vision is trespassing the traditional manufacturing boundaries, whether it is a small manufacturing unit or a big smart factory. It allows for faster and more efficient workflow with an innovative thought process. If you want to understand the various use cases, applications, and real-life examples of computer vision AI then you have landed on the right article.
If you, too, want to explore the technology’s possibilities, get support from a leading computer vision company like Bosc Tech Labs (www.bosctechlabs.com). The team here understands your business model and devises a custom solution to streamline your business process. Let’s begin.
What is Computer Vision AI?
Computer Vision is a highly dynamic field of AI that involves complex algorithms and computational power to train machines to understand visual information. With this technology, computers and machines can derive meaningful information from digital images, videos, and other visual inputs. These systems then can take further required action based on the input.
The best example of Computer Vision AI is a self-driving car in which AI is used to detect and recognize various objects on the road. However, there are far more applications in the manufacturing industry.
Market Statistics of Computer Vision Technology
Here are the important statistics that show the market trend of computer vision technology:
- As per IBM, 77% of manufacturers consider computer vision important for meeting their business goals.
- Grand View Research states that 51% of the global computer vision market is covered by its industrial segment alone.
- Mordor Intelligence has expected a CAGR of 7% between 2023 and 2030, with manufacturing as its fastest-growing segment.
What is the role of Computer Vision AI in the Manufacturing Industry?
In the manufacturing industry, computer vision AI interprets visual data and performs video analysis. It can help in the automation of production processes, inspection tasks, and workforce monitoring.
There will be precise and efficient operations and the manufacturers could maintain high standards of quality control and optimize productivity. The manufacturing units could maintain fewer errors, reduce operational costs, and enhance overall efficiency. Several tools guide the functioning of manufacturing units.
Here are the primary applications of Computer Vision AI in the manufacturing industry:
1. Object Detection
Computer vision AI technology facilitates the identification and localization of objects. It can automate tasks like inventory management, component recognition, and even defect identification. Computer vision object detection will help manufacturers to accurately detect and classify objects in real time for fewer human errors and reduced operational costs.
2. Anomaly Detection
Computer vision technology can identify patterns and deviations to detect defects or irregularities in the production outcomes, equipment, or even management systems. It helps in reducing unplanned downtime and losses. There will be no unforeseen disruptions with real-time insights into computer vision AI and thus it optimizes overall performance and profitability.
3. Object Tracking
Object tracking in computer vision AI refers to the monitoring of movements of objects, products, people, and other entities within the factory unit. Computer vision tracking allows for real-time production monitoring, labor monitoring, and inventory management.
4. Quality Control & Inspection
The image processing algorithms will help in smart inspection and quality control. It will use high-definition cameras to achieve precise defect detection and quality assessment in real-time. E.g., if a product in the assembly line is broken or not packed properly, the AI will detect it and the robots will place it aside.
5. Process Automation
The ultimate aim of computer vision is to bring process automation which helps minimize human-prone errors and improve process control without interruptions. Traditionally, humans were employed for this unproductive task i.e. to identify wrong or defective products. But with AI, they can now be assigned to more productive tasks.
6. Safety and Compliance
Computer vision AI helps significantly in those manufacturing environments that have limited human presence and are highly risky. Through visual stream analysis, continuous workforce monitoring makes it possible to identify any safety risks and compliance violations in real-time.
7. Quality Inspection
The systems are capable of detecting problems and errors that a human may miss. CVSconstantly analyzes the products in real-time to check for any issues like scratches, misalignments, or color variations. It allows only notch products to pass down the line so that businesses can maintain top quality and their reputation.
8. Inventory Management
Proper inventory management is very critical for a seamless process flow. Real-time stock monitoring, automated counting, and discrepancy-free accounting are assured by computer vision. It leads to capability improvement in managing supply chains and thereby minimizing overproduction or shortages.
9. Predictive Maintenance
Equipment failings could lead to interruption of production and thus a cost burden. Machine-teaching computer vision under AI observes machines toward the early occurrence of wear-and-tear signs, such as unexpected vibrations or unsteady heating. Predictive maintenance leads to a reduction in downtime, increases the life of the machines and reduces operations overheads.
10. Custom Solutions
Bosc Tech Labs creates custom computer vision solutions for various manufacturing demands. AI solutions can include everything from advanced defect detection and automated inventory processes to highly efficient workflow improvements. Overall, our technology allows enterprises to attain operational efficiency.
You can check for top use cases of computer vision in manufacturing, and explore the possibilities of integration with your business.
Real-Life Examples of Computer Vision In Manufacturing
1. Dow Chemical
Dow is the third-largest chemical company in the world. To enhance employee safety and security, Dow has implemented an Azure-based computer vision solution. The system performs several tasks. The primary ones are monitoring personal protective equipment and detecting containment leaks.
2. Volvo
The automobile giant Volvo uses the computer vision system Atlas to scan each vehicle with over 20 cameras. It helps identify surface defects instantly and detects 40% more deviations than manual inspections. The entire cycle takes between 5 and 20 seconds, depending on the size of the vehicle.
3. Komatsu
Komatsu is a leading construction equipment manufacturer at the global level. It has partnered with NVIDIA to adopt a safety-focused computer vision solution. It can monitor the movement of workers and equipment to signal potential collisions or other dangers.
4. Tennplasco
Tennplasco is a Tennessee-based plastic injection molding corporation. It has deployed Sawyer Robot, a multi-purpose robotic arm equipped with a camera. It can recognize and pick up objects that aren’t sorted. As a result, the company met its targeted ROI in less than four months.
The Future of Manufacturing with AI and Computer Vision
As manufacturers look to the future of the industry, both AI and computer vision will be at the forefront of significant evolutions. Some of the trends and developments that promise to shape what the future holds:
1. Autonomous Production Lines
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Fully Automated Operations
Not very much human involvement is required will be the future of manufacturing and will highly depend on AI, computer vision, and fully automated production lines. The processes, decisions, and adjustments of workflows can be controlled by the different computer systems without any human intervention.
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Continuous Operation
Autonomous production lines run continuously, 24/7, to maximize efficiency while minimizing the cost of labor and downtime.
2. Smart Factories
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Integration of IoT
Smart factories interconnect devices, machines, and sensors to create a seamless flow of information. AI and computer vision will enable machines to “communicate” with each other and adjust production processes dynamically based on inputs.
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Marketers’ Insight into Data Points
Real-time analytics using AI will help manufacturers put together trends for predictions of failure and optimization of performance throughout manufacturing nest stages.
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Custom and Flexible
Manufacturers will be able to respond promptly to market requirements. This means small-series production of customized products with very low setups by using AI-driven systems.
3. Sustainable Manufacturing Practices
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Waste Reduction
AI and computer vision will help nip inefficiencies in the bud by cutting down on material waste. Manufacturers’ ability to identify flaws early in production, coupled with advances in material science, will maximize efficiency in resource use.
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Energy Optimization
AI also has the potential to become a see-or-never way to cut back on energy consumption in the context of a factory setting, as it would easily translate to a good measure of cost-saving and soothe any environmental impact.
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Circular Economy
Intelligent CVs recognize and track recyclable materials, thus conserving a movement towards a sustainable economy. Since products and components would be reused, there would be less need for new raw materials.
Wrapping Up
From the considerations, there seem to be different use cases or practices of computer vision in the manufacturing industry. It mainly provides an approach to reduce human-prone errors and enhance efficiency and safety. Investment in computer vision AI technologies has been shown to increase efficiency, reduce operating costs, and improve product quality.
We give you the chance to build high-quality computer vision AI solutions that suit your factory processes. This will align with your requirements.
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