What is AI (Artificial Intelligence)?
AI, or Artificial Intelligence, is technology that enables systems to independently learn, reason and make decisions based on data — without every scenario having to be programmed in advance.
AI makes machines and software ‘smart’: they adapt, recognise patterns and improve themselves.
In industrial contexts, AI is increasingly applied to automation, quality control, maintenance and process optimisation.
🎯 Examples of AI applications
| Application | Examples |
|---|---|
| Predictive Maintenance | AI predicts component failures based on vibration or temperature data |
| Visual quality control | AI algorithms detect defects via camera images of the production process |
| Process optimisation | AI automatically determines optimal setpoints based on real-time data |
| Energy management | AI optimises consumption based on production planning and grid load |
| Anomaly detection | AI detects abnormal behaviour in OT systems or networks |
🧯 Why is AI relevant?
- Increases accuracy and speed in decision-making
- Learns from both historical and real-time data
- Reduces human error
- Helps uncover complex patterns invisible to humans
- Supports the automation of tasks and processes
🔁 AI vs. traditional algorithms
| Traditional automation | AI-based systems |
|---|---|
| Pre-programmed rules | Learn from data and adapt based on context |
| Reacts predictably | Can respond dynamically and contextually |
| Difficult to scale or reuse | Self-learning and scalable across multiple applications |
| Often reactive | Can act proactively and predictively |
🏭 Specifically in OT/industrial environments
- AI models run on Edge Computing or IPCs close to the machine
- Integration with SCADA, MES or Historian data for insights
- Continuous training of models based on operational performance
- AI can act as digital operator support for troubleshooting or setpoint advice
📌 In summary
AI makes systems smarter, faster and self-learning — and is therefore a key driver behind Smart Industry and IT/OT convergence.