AI in manufacturing and the role of humans: processes, robots, and systems

Abstract

According to Encyclopaedia Britannica, an industrial revolution has technological, socioeconomic and cultural features. This may validate the hypothesis that human living and quality standards lie at the centre of every transformation related to the industry. Indeed, productivity increase, automation/innovation, networking and human inclusion - the motivations behind Industry X.0 - have driven changes that have facilitated the smooth production of quality and customized products. However, some technological advancements are more difficult to be dealt with than others. AI, in particular, speeded up decision-making while, at the same time, it optimized manufacturing (design and operation); this made AI appear competitive towards the roles of humans. However, this is not the case. Herein, it is discussed how technological advancements surrounding the integration of AI technologies in production can help empower humans. To achieve this, manufacturing is broken down into three distinct levels. For each of these levels, various applications are presented, and the benefits of humans co-existing with AI and other technologies are indicated. Finally, the benefits are summed up in terms of (a) empowerment of humans and (b) resilience in manufacturing itself.