Software How Smart Assistants Ease the Burden on Operational Forces

Related Vendors

FAULHABER Drive Systems

Wuxi InfiMotion Technology Co., Ltd.

Artificial intelligence (AI) has arrived in the industry—not only in engineering or data analysis but directly on-site. It helps where operational processes take place, machines are operated, and products are manufactured: in production, assembly, and maintenance.

In the electrical and high-tech industry, progress sets the pace—and it is accelerating. Accordingly, manufacturers of automation systems, semiconductors, medical technology, or household appliances are looking for ways to increase their productivity. AI-powered connected worker solutions offer enormous potential here. They make knowledge accessible, training more efficient, and processes easier to understand. The focus is not on new equipment or robots but on the people who work with them.

Learning in the Workflow

Demographic change is leading to fewer and fewer young professionals choosing trades and operational professions. At the same time, new employees in the electrical industry need to become operational more quickly. This is precisely where AI-based instructions come into play. During "onboarding on the job," they show exactly what needs to be done via mobile devices or augmented reality: visually, comprehensibly, interactively. Even newcomers can take on productive tasks right from the start. Quality is ensured through constant feedback, with expert support available in real-time. Connected worker applications provide extensive collaboration options—remotely if necessary.

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Support Tailored to Measure

The existing staff is also individually guided by AI. Whether it's Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), other step-by-step instructions, or checklists: modern connected working apps rely on integrated skill management. Based on each employee's education, qualifications, and practical experience, AI tailors the input accordingly. Those already experienced receive only the most essential instructions or updates, meaning as little information as possible but as much as necessary. However, if the system detects that a professional is hesitating during a work step or repeatedly switching between instructions, it automatically provides more in-depth content.

Personalized training or learning units can also be offered in the same way. For example, an experienced machine operator only receives a brief update on how to retrofit a new model. In contrast, a colleague who has been absent for a longer period and works in quality control receives a more detailed re-training. Everyone receives exactly the knowledge they need—in the required level of detail, at the right time, and in the right format.

Automatically Generate Content

Some responsible parties might say, "First, we need to tackle the digitization of our materials." And rightly so: over decades, companies have accumulated a multitude of SOPs (Standard Operating Procedures), manuals, forms, and training content. The majority of this content still lies dormant as printed copies in folders, or at best, already exists digitally as Word files, JPGs, or PDFs on servers. But how can meaningful step-by-step guides be developed from this easily and quickly? Generative AI (GenAI) assistants are the saviors in this situation: they transform analog or file-based content into interactive step-by-step instructions for smartphones, tablets, or AR glasses.

Assistants now independently create training modules as well. They analyze SOPs or technical documentation and generate learning units with text, images, and quizzes. A practical example: the production manager of an electronics manufacturer wants to provide a training package for the autonomous maintenance of a system. The AI assistant processes the user manual and existing learning units to create suitable lessons, including a final test. The manager quickly receives a solid template that she can either approve directly or adapt to her requirements.

Break Down Language Barriers

International teams are standard in German companies—as are varying levels of language proficiency. To ensure safety, quality, and collaboration are not compromised, AI assistants now automatically translate digital work instructions, forms, and training materials into any imaginable language. The difference from simple translation software: the copilots pay attention to industry-specific terminology. Changes to templates are also automatically applied. This way, every version remains up-to-date for all locations with minimal effort.

Secure Knowledge Before it is Lost

What currently concerns companies in the industry is that more and more experienced employees are retiring. Whether machine operators, assembly workers at manual workstations, or maintenance technicians: their tips and tricks are rarely found in manuals. AI-powered systems now help capture this know-how from knowledge holders. When they respond in digital chats, film themselves at work, or provide assistance with questions, their explanations are saved, structured, and—upon approval—reused as knowledge modules.

Continuously Improve Processes

From technical cleanliness to standardization: many processes in the electrical industry are strictly regulated. AI systems automatically document completed work steps, log measurement results, and ensure seamless traceability. At the same time, this data forms the foundation for continuously improving processes. For example, an AI system analyzes connections between training measures, quality, and efficiency. This allows companies to strategically plan team training before bottlenecks in qualified or certified personnel arise.

Conclusion: AI Becomes An Everyday Aid

From translation to training, work instructions, and knowledge preservation: AI is accelerating connected work in the electrical industry. It enables employees to make the most of their knowledge and skills, improves operational processes, and makes the workplace safer and more efficient. For a sector that thrives on technological excellence, it is becoming an indispensable tool.

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