The Future of AI, CNC machines and Robotics Manufacturing
Recently, our Managing Director Pierre gave a keynote presentation at Composites Australia. The presentation was titled “The Future of AI, CNC machines, and Robotics in Manufacturing”, and gave sharp insights into the future of manufacturing.
If you missed out on seeing the presentation live, here’s an overview of all the juicy content inside.
AI, robotics, and CNC machines in manufacturing now
In a previous blog, we wrote about the benefits of CNC machines vs robots. If you haven’t read It yet, here’s a snapshot of their benefits.
CNC machine: designed for precision manufacturing; versatile and customisable for various jobs
Robotics: Perfect for repetitive detail work like milling, drilling, and sanding
In saying that, there are three types of robots currently used in factories.
These are:
- Cobots – collaborative models that work alongside people
- Hybrid systems – working with CNC machines for greater precision and flexibility
- Automated systems – robotic arms for automatically loading and unloading raw materials and finished parts
Some factories rely more heavily on one kind of robot than others. The most dynamic and versatile shops strategically pick and choose; then combine them with generative AI and CNC machines.
Workflows could look like:
- Generative AI creates strategies, based on past projects
- Robots perform precise processes, bringing products to life
- CNC machines finish products by milling, drilling, trimming, and polishing the end result
It’s a powerful blend that the most cutting-edge factories are leveraging to their advantage – and you could, too.
The Opportunity
The CNC market is set to reach $129 billion by 2026. That’s good news for those in the composites space; where demand is soaring. Skilled labour is low, and inefficiencies are high; especially with the challenges of complex geometries at play.
With more efficient technology now available, the potential to grow through smart production is higher than ever. By combining CNC machines with generative AI, efficiency is projected to double. That’s huge.
In the industrial sector, AI provides value by:
- Analysing material properties and production processes to generate new designs
- Learning from production data to create better workflows
- Predicting equipment failure and maintenance needs through data analysis
- Faster product customisation, based on the project at hand
Sectors that would most benefit from this integration include:
- Aerospace
- Automotive
- Medical
- Defence
This isn’t just the future. It’s happening now – and well-renowned companies are taking advantage.
BMW’s AI visual inspection has reduced the defect rate by 50%.
Siemens’ AI-powered grid has saved 20% in power usage.
Their Gamesa subsidiary uses it to significantly cut time-to-market for their products.
The possibilities are almost endless. We’re exploring the terrain in Australia with our clients; looking at everything from optimising traditional CNC machines to combining CMS robots with AI systems to maximise productivity.
It’s a growing field worth exploring – and we’re excited to see developments unfold. If you’re curios to hear more on this topic, give us a call. We’re happy to share our insights.
