Unlocking the future of industrial AI: insights from Jörn Steinbeck

In the latest episode of the Industrial AI podcast, presenter Robert Weber met with Jörn Steinbeck, co-founder of oee.ai, to discuss how generative AI is redesigning manufacturing. The conversation covered the development of the oee.ai approach, the capabilities of their AI agent “Saru” and the challenges and opportunities of using AI in industrial environments. Here are the key findings from this insightful discussion.

A glimpse of oee.ai

oee.ai was founded with the vision to revolutionize machine-based manufacturing and offers cutting-edge manufacturing analysis tools. The platform focuses on real-time productivity analytics and enables operators and managers to identify anomalies, optimize processes, and increase overall equipment effectiveness (OEE).

Jörn explained how their tools collect data from machines, ERP systems, and human input to deliver actionable insights in real time via intuitive dashboards and notifications. The mission is clear: Empower manufacturers to achieve peak performance through advanced analytics and AI.

The evolution of technology: From LSTM to generative AI

Three years ago, oee.ai relied on long short-term memory (LSTM) models to analyze time series data. The company has now moved to using large language models (LLMs) such as LLama, in particular the 70 billion parameter model. This change has enabled them to integrate generative AI for advanced computing and user interaction.

Jörn emphasized how this new approach enables plant operators to easily access complex data insights. For example, instead of navigating through multiple dashboards, users can simply query the AI and get precise, actionable recommendations.

Meet Saru: The AI agent that is changing manufacturing

At the heart of oee.ai's innovation is “Saru,” their AI-driven assistant. Inspired by lean manufacturing principles, Saru acts as a real-time companion for operators and managers and offers:

• Proactive advice: Identify productivity losses and suggest immediate corrective measures.
• Tailored insights: Use both static knowledge (e.g. operating standards) and dynamic data to offer individual recommendations.
• Advanced troubleshooting: Reduce repair times by consolidating operator input and historical data into actionable advice.

Named after the Japanese word for monkey (and an allusion to the oee.ai logo), Saru embodies curiosity and intelligence, bridging the gap between machine data and human decision making.

Link to the English-language podcast

Overcome challenges with generative AI

Although the benefits of generative AI are immense, the journey has not been without hurdles. Jörn shared some important findings:

1. Fine-tuning efforts: Adapting LLAMA models to industrial requirements requires significant efforts, in particular to ensure consistent and contextual accurate answers.
2. User trust: Addressing customer concerns about data protection and the costs of implementing AI solutions remains a priority.
3. Consistency in spending: The different answers to similar queries can be confusing for users and illustrate the need for continuous model refinement.

A vision for the future

Looking ahead, oee.ai would like to expand Saru's capabilities. Jörn envisions a future in which AI not only responds to user inquiries, but proactively identifies and communicates opportunities for improvement. This agent approach would revolutionize workflows and enable operators to respond to AI-driven insights without the need for constant manual input.

In addition, oee.ai focuses on:

• Personalized recommendations: Improving Saru's ability to provide context-specific advice tailored to individual processes
• Seamless integration: Ensuring compatibility with various industrial environments, including brownfields, through advanced data collection methods.

Customer feedback and industry impact

Customer feedback from oee.ai was extremely positive, particularly with regard to features such as automated troubleshooting. Operators appreciate the ease of data entry and the receipt of immediate, actionable solutions — often in their preferred language.

However, Jörn is aware of the challenges of driving adoption in an industry that has traditionally been slow to adapt. He believes that generative AI will become a unique selling point for industrial applications and give future-oriented manufacturers a competitive advantage.

Concluding Thoughts

The conversation with Jörn Steinbeck underlined the transformative potential of generative AI in manufacturing. By integrating advanced analytics with user-friendly interfaces, oee.ai not only increases productivity, but also redefines opportunities in industrial companies.

As generative AI evolves, companies like oee.ai are leading the way, proving that innovation and practical application can go hand in hand. With tools like Saru, the future of manufacturing looks smarter, more efficient and undoubtedly more exciting.

Would you like to learn more about how AI can change your manufacturing processes? Get in touch with us today!