Artificial Intelligence Uses Equipment Data to Predict Production Problems

The new FactoryTalk Analytics LogixAI module from Rockwell Automation, formerly known as Project Sherlock, uses artificial intelligence (AI) to detect production anomalies and alert workers so they can investigate or intervene as necessary. Industrial workers can now more easily use the data from their equipment to predict production issues and improve processes with their existing automation and control skill set, according to the company.

The add-on module for ControlLogix controllers makes predictive analytics more accessible by doing the job of a data scientist. It fits directly into a control chassis and streams controller data over the backplane to build predictive models. It can continuously monitor a production operation, detecting anomalies against its derived understanding. 

For example, the module can help operators spot performance deviations in equipment that could affect product quality or lead to downtime. It can also be used as a virtual sensor. Instead of workers taking a measurement, the module can analyze variables from line assets to predict a measurement virtually. Workers can then be notified of problems by configuring alarms on a human machine interface or dashboard. Future features of the module will go further, helping workers focus their problem-solving or automate the optimization of a process.

The FactoryTalk Analytics LogixAI module is the newest addition to the FactoryTalk Analytics portfolio from Rockwell Automation. The portfolio includes FactoryTalk Analytics for Devices, which learns about an automation system’s structure to tell workers about problems with individual devices. The LogixAI module expands on this by learning about an automation system’s application and helping identify anomalies with its overall function. Both products work individually, but each will benefit the other in future iterations. The FactoryTalk Analytics platform aggregates multiple sources of data, so workers can discover new insights. FactoryTalk Analytics for Devices and the LogixAI module will both be data sources for the platform going forward.

Source: Rockwell Automation