Artificial intelligence in the process industries

The Process Industries Division, India Technical Centre IMechE, held an expert talk on "Relevence and Application of Artificial Intelligence in Process Industries" at VMCC IIT-Bombay, Powai, Mumbai on 28 September 2019.

With technological advancements, in Industry 4.0 scenario, processes are required to be more efficient and accurate. Artificial Intelligence (AI) will support fast growth in the process industries sector. AI is not only related to computer science, but is also a very important tool for progress of process industries. The PD India expert talk discussed the relevance and applications of AI in process industries.

Prof. Dr Asim Tewari of IIT-Bombay, an authority on AI, with over a hundred published papers and ten international patents, spoke on concepts of AI. Dr. Tewari is working for global AI organisations, guiding them in different applications. He has also set up many technology centres and assists budding start-ups. Dr Asim Tewari, shared the concepts of classical machine learning, deep learning and reinforcement learning of machines. He elucidated in simple language the types of intelligence such as narrow intelligence, general intelligence, superintelligence along with relevant examples, which were which were easily understood by the audience. Some interesting applications such as lip reading and applications such as dream reading are being developed.

Another speaker, Mr Naveen Sriniwas, Founder CEO of start-up Cogxar Bengaluru, spoke on applications of AI in various process industries. Mr Naveen discussed electronics appliances in the process industries. These are becoming smarter and more communicative. He stressed that AI is becoming very relevant in healthcare applications, where it has eased diagnosis of ailments and assisted in preventive healthcare. In manufacturing industries, AI has been used for operational quality improvements with online identification and reporting of defects. The applications of FRS (Face Recognition System) and its various examples were cited. Mr. Naveen also share some videos, to show how AI can help in designing a layout for machines and define sequence of processes.

There were 55 attendees at the event comprising of professionals, entrepreneurs, IMechE members, and IIT students. They actively participated in the question and answer session which was very interesting. A memento was presented to the speakers by Dr Atrey, Chair Process Industries Div, India tEchnical Centre, in appreciation of the contribution of the speakers in AI in process industries which enlightened the audience. The event concluded with high-tea and networking with the participants.