// ROBOTICS AND SMART FACTORIES TERM

Machine Learning

A type of artificial intelligence that allows computer systems to learn from data without being explicitly programmed. It identifies patterns and makes predictions or decisions.

Machine Learning — illustration from Wikipedia
Image via Wikipedia

TECHNICAL DEFINITION

Machine Learning (ML) is a subset of AI enabling systems to learn from data, identify patterns, and make predictions or decisions by developing algorithms that improve performance on a specific task without explicit programming, widely applied in predictive maintenance, quality control, and process optimization in manufacturing.

BACKGROUND

Federated learning is a machine learning technique in a setting where multiple entities collaboratively train a model while keeping their data decentralized, rather than centrally stored. A defining characteristic of federated learning is data heterogeneity. Because client data is decentralized, data samples held by each client may not be independently and identically distributed.

READ MORE ON WIKIPEDIA

SYNONYMS & ALIASES

  • ML
  • AI Learning
  • Pattern Recognition
  • Predictive Analytics

USAGE NOTE

Machine learning algorithms are used to predict equipment failures before they occur, reducing downtime.

DEVELOPERS

Organizations developing technology related to Machine Learning.

  • Siemens

    Develops the MindSphere industrial IoT platform, which uses machine learning for predictive maintenance, asset performance management, and creating 'Digital Twins' of manufacturing processes to optimize production.

  • Rockwell Automation

    Integrates machine learning into its FactoryTalk software suite and industrial control systems to provide predictive and prescriptive analytics, helping to optimize manufacturing operations and reduce downtime.

  • GE Digital

    Provides industrial software, including the Predix platform, that leverages machine learning for Asset Performance Management (APM), optimizing manufacturing equipment reliability and operational efficiency.

  • Bosch Connected Industry

    A division of Bosch that develops Industry 4.0 solutions. They use machine learning for process optimization, predictive maintenance, and automated optical inspection in their own plants and for customers.

  • C3 AI

    Offers an enterprise AI application development platform with pre-built applications for manufacturing. These applications use machine learning for predictive maintenance, production optimization, and supply chain risk management.

  • Cognex Corporation

    Specializes in machine vision systems and software that use deep learning, a form of machine learning, to solve complex part location, inspection, and classification tasks on automated production lines.

  • FANUC

    A leading manufacturer of industrial robots and factory automation systems. FANUC integrates AI and machine learning into its FIELD system platform to optimize robotic operations and enable predictive maintenance for connected equipment.

  • Microsoft Azure

    Provides cloud-based tools like Azure IoT and Azure Machine Learning that manufacturers use to build and deploy custom ML models for smart factory applications, including real-time quality control and supply chain forecasting.

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