AI in Manufacturing (AIM) #4: Accelerating the use of robots and automation

Collaborative robots are specifically designed to work safely and efficiently alongside human operators. In the manufacturing industry, collaborative robots are revolutionizing traditional workflows by taking on repetitive, ergonomically challenging, or hazardous tasks, allowing human operators to focus on more complex and creative aspects of production. This embodies the concept of human centricity. In this event, we will explore how AI can reduce the entry barrier of such solutions into manufacturing environments.

On March 26th, we hosted the fourth installment of our AI in Manufacturing (AIM) event – a growing platform for knowledge exchange and collaboration at the intersection of artificial intelligence and industrial innovation. The event took place at Stena Industry Innovation Lab at Chalmers University of Technology, with generous sponsorship and support from Accenture, Volvo Cars, PTC and Rockwell Automation.

AIM event #4 was project-led by Dr Omkar Salunkhe and moderated by Professor Anna Syberfeldt. The theme of the event was inspired by their research topic, which explores accelerating the use of robots and automation. This critical and timely topic drew participants from both academia and industry, eager to explore how automation and AI technologies can be deployed faster and more effectively within manufacturing environments.

We were honored to welcome an impressive lineup of speakers who brought diverse perspectives and insights to the discussion:

• Niraj Singh Angomjamban, Volvo Cars

• Sonya Dabb, Accenture

• Laura Mosconi, Accenture

• Per Lönnehed, PTC

Their presentations addressed real-world challenges and opportunities in automation, offering valuable examples and forward-thinking strategies.

Following a networking lunch, the afternoon was dedicated to an interactive workshop session, where participants engaged in in-depth discussions around capturing value and building ecosystems to support low-code industrial automation solutions. The workshop fostered meaningful conversations and cross-sector collaboration, paving the way for new ideas and partnerships.

The day concluded with a relaxed afterwork mingling session, offering attendees the opportunity to network, share reflections, and continue the conversation in an informal setting.

A round of applause to our project leader for AIM #4, Dr. Omkar Salunkhe, and our moderator, Professor Anna Syberfeldt, whose guidance ensured a smooth and engaging flow throughout the day.

We also want to extend a heartfelt thank you to the dedicated and talented team at SII-Lab, whose support made this event possible:

Dr. Clarissa González, Greta Braun, Huizhong Cao, Siyuan Chen, Hao Wang, Sven Ekered, Magnus Wahlgård, Linnea Stenbaek, and Viola Zhang

Finally, a big thank you to everyone who participated in AIM #4 – and a special shoutout to Niraj Singh Angomjamban, Sonya Dabb, Laura Mosconi, and Per Lönnehed for your inspiring and impactful presentations!

We look forward to seeing you at the next AIM event as we continue to drive innovation in AI and manufacturing!