On-Site Learning Factories for Implementing Artificial Intelligence Systems in Production

Abstract

When introducing a disruptive technology such as artificial intelligence (AI) into a company, it is important to involve the employees from the beginning and to inform them comprehensively about the opportunities and risks of the technology. Traditional means of communication such as information brochures, company meetings and email circulars are not suitable for this purpose, as they only allow limited feedback and often present the workforce with a fait accompli. The KI_Cafe method presents a new kind of introduction strategy that follows an on-site learning factory concept. This includes information and discussion opportunities for all participants based on example scenarios, as well as the development and testing of a specific AI system. For this purpose, a requirements definition, system development and practical implementation of an AI-based assistance system are combined with recurring company-public experimental spaces, the KI_Cafe Learning factory. In a use case, a novel-based system for assessing the cutting edge quality of milling tools is developed and implemented for two small and medium sized enterprises. This enables an independent assess the condition of a milling tool and thus contributes to relieving the workload of the integrated tool pre-setting. During the development, all organizational levels from the machine operators to the managers will be included in order to map the individual needs of the device and to create an understanding of the AI system at an early stage. Accompanying this, various exhibits on the topic of AI and the current development status of the new measuring system will accessible in the KI_Cafe.