Artificial intelligence and data science are transforming manufacturing plants. From predictive maintenance to process optimization, these technologies rely on key concepts. This glossary introduces essential terms, explained simply and tailored for industrial applications.
Artificial Intelligence (AI)
A machine-based system that can, for a given set of objectives, make predictions, recommendations, or decisions that influence real or virtual environments.
In a manufacturing plant: AI can predict equipment instability, recommend fuel adjustments, or automate quality monitoring.
Artificial Intelligence Model
A component of an information system that applies AI technology using computational, statistical, or machine-learning techniques to produce outputs from a given set of inputs.
In a manufacturing plant: An AI model might take in raw mix chemistry, temperature, and fuel flow data, then suggest the best setpoints for stable clinker formation.
Artificial Intelligence Red-Teaming
A structured testing effort designed to identify flaws and vulnerabilities in an AI system, often carried out in a controlled environment and in collaboration with developers.
In a manufacturing plant: This could involve testing how an AI system reacts to noisy data or abnormal sensor readings, ensuring safety and reliability.
Artificial Intelligence System
Any data system, software, hardware, or application that operates partly or fully using AI.
In a manufacturing plant: Examples include automated process control tools, predictive maintenance systems, and energy efficiency dashboards.
Data Science
A field that combines domain expertise, programming, mathematics, and statistics to extract meaningful insights from data.
In a manufacturing plant: Data science helps analyze trends in energy consumption, predict equipment failures, and identify optimization opportunities.
Conclusion
As manufacturing plants move toward digital transformation, understanding AI and data science becomes critical. These technologies, when applied correctly, can boost efficiency, reliability, and sustainability. This glossary provides a foundation for exploring how AI-driven tools are shaping the future of manufacturing.
