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The convergence of Additive Manufacturing and Artificial Intelligence: Envisioning a future that is closer than you think The frenzy of media attention surrounding Artificial Intelligence (AI) dwarfs the past hype surrounding Additive Manufacturing (AM). Whether you look to the future with fear or excitement, there is no escaping the wave of change that is coming. Whilst we once again hear words like 'revolution' being used – to which so many have become immune – Dr Omar Fergani believes that we are now at a crucial point of convergence for AM and AI. Here, he explains why AM is in an especially strong position to leverage the potential of AI, with the power to transform many areas of our industry, from part design to machine operation, quality management and beyond.
Much like the advent of electricity or the internet, the blending of Artificial Intelligence and big data is not just an incremental improvement. Instead, it represents a foundational shift that is reshaping the bedrock of our industries and society. As we harness this unprecedented convergence, we are not just building better tools – we are redefining the very essence of how we work, think, and live. In this article, we will explore in depth how AI will impact the Additive Manufacturing industry, from a new wave of advanced design possibilities to autonomously controlling AM machines and ensuring part quality and repeatability. We will share insight gathered from those at the cutting edge of the convergence of AI and AM, whose voices are not often heard in the media but who promise to transform our industry through their research. We will also offer advanced use cases, insight into existing products and services and, by the end, hope to have presented a clear picture
Vol. 9 No. 3 © 2023 Inovar Communications Ltd
for AM experts, corporate decision makers, and engineers. I believe that right now, rather than in the distant future, there is an opportunity for the AM industry to leverage the power of machine
learning and deep learning models to bring a new level of efficiency to AM processes, operation and businesses, co-piloting Additive Manufacturing on the path to industrialisation.
Fig. 1 AI will impact the Additive Manufacturing industry, from a new wave of advanced design possibilities to autonomously controlling AM machines and ensuring part quality and repeatability (Base image credit: Connect world/ Shutterstock.com)
Metal Additive Manufacturing | Autumn 2023
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AM and AI
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