Spread of AI in German manufacturing: trends and challenges

Study German companies are increasingly relying on AI.

2024-04-08 Source: Rockwell Automation | Translated by AI 1 min Reading Time

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The shortage of skilled workers is accelerating the spread of AI in German manufacturing. Instead of using AI as a replacement, companies are looking for ways to use AI when positions cannot be filled or are difficult to fill.

AI has arrived in the German manufacturing industry.(Image: Bild:) — AI has arrived in the German manufacturing industry.
(Image: Bild:)

Rockwell Automation has published the ninth edition of its "State of Smart Manufacturing" report. According to a press release, the study shows that AI has arrived in manufacturing. The technology is increasingly being used to support the workforce. Strengthening resilience in operational processes is becoming increasingly important.

AI for process optimization

Accordingly, 43 percent of German manufacturers expect to implement generative AI (GenAI) in their factories in 2024. 89 percent of German manufacturers anticipate the use of AI and machine learning (ML) in advanced analytics. Technology investments are increasing by almost a third. 69 percent of German companies are investing between 21 percent and 50 percent of their operational budget. The biggest hurdle for implementing an AI system, according to 36 percent of respondents from Germany, is a lack of expertise. Only 22 percent of the surveyed German manufacturers see cybersecurity as a significant challenge.

84 percent of surveyed German companies indicated that they have already invested in AI and ML or plan to do so in the next twelve months. German companies cite three main applications for AI and ML: process optimization (44 percent), quality control (37 percent), and robotics (35 percent).

For the study, more than 1,500 manufacturing companies from 17 countries were surveyed, including Germany, the United Kingdom (UK), France, Italy, and Spain. Just over 100 of the participating companies are based in Germany (101).

The complete study is available on the Rockwell Automation website.

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