What is Artificial Intelligence (AI)?
Artificial Intelligence (AI) is a branch of computer science that is concerned with building smart machines and software capable of performing tasks that require human intelligence. Generally, this technology falls under two broad categories: Narrow AI and Artificial General Intelligence.
Narrow AI, is an artificial intelligent tool which performs singular human-like tasks. They are able to implement a limited part of the human mind on machines. Narrow AI paved the path for many innovations such as:
- Image recognition software
- voice assistants
- Self- driving cars
- The famous IBM’s Watson
- Apple’s Siri or Google’s Alexa.
Currently, Narrow AI is a type of AI implementation mostly used in businesses.
On the other hand, Artificial General Intelligence, in theory, is a type of AI that is capable of understanding and interacting with the world to perform a wide range of tasks. With the same effectiveness as human beings, if not better. Optimistically, there will be a point where AGI reaches expectations. Likewise, tasks performed are similar to human like thinking and reasoning. However, with computational advantages such as near-instant recall and split-second number crunching.
The Value of Artificial Intelligence to the Warehouse
The value of AI can be manifested in a warehouse environment across different disciplines and sub-disciplines such as:
- Through Machine Learning
- Natural Language Processing
- Computer Vision
- Robotics – among others.
The four branches of AI
Here’s how these four branches of AI can bring value to the warehouse.
- Learning uses algorithms and statistical models to process massive amounts of data to make logical decisions in the warehouse. Sensors gather data and input data in to a system. Next, machine learning detects patterns in the data and automatically suggests actions such as replenishing nearly out-of-stock items, shorter walking routes, better inventory positioning, and more.
- Natural language processing (NLP), on the other hand, allows for voice picking, so workers can operate hands and eyes-free to increase warehouse safety and efficiency. NLP provides systems or machines the ability to read/listen, understand, and derive meaning from human languages.
- Vision is another sub-discipline that helps AI interact with the warehouse, in this case, visually. This technology can enable semi-automated, end-to-end product tracking by placing cameras in different parts of the warehouse that detect the movement and position of cargo. Computer vision can also aid drones to perform cycle counting by helping them navigate through the warehouse and scan items without the need of human intervention.
- Robotics is a sub-discipline that empowers AI with three distinct abilities: physical presence, spatial awareness, and movement in the real world. By enabling these three abilities, AI can interact with physical objects and perform semi-automated tasks in the warehouse, such as loading/unloading, picking, and moving cargo around the facility.
Artificial intelligence and the above sub disciplines do not correlate the warehouse. But, they are some of the most tested and commonly used applications of AI in the warehouse. Additionally, these sub-disciplines only fall under Narrow AI but are necessary steps to achieve Artificial General Intelligence (AGI). Achieving AGI means autonomous warehouse operations will not be a hype. But, it is a possible reality.
Statical & Graphic Data
Source: MHI Annual Industry Report 2020
The Current State of Artificial Intelligence
In relation to the S-Curve of Innovation, Artificial Intelligence is in between the Ferment and Takeoff Stage. Usually, being in this position means that a technology’s evolution is slow. But, in AI’s exact position, the technology is about to cross over to the Takeoff phase. Which means that its evolution is likely to speed up significantly within the next few years.
In the MHI Annual Industry Report 2020, 56% of respondents were of the opinion that Artificial Intelligence has the potential to create disruption in the industry or create a competitive advantage for their business. AI is among the technologies that received a high approval rate from the respondents. Which signals people’s confidence in its potential benefits in the warehousing industry.
Technology Adoption Lifecycle
Currently, early adopters are implementing Artificial Intelligence. Therefore, belonging to such a group pinpoints AI’s capabilities. Since, leaders have determined it is worth investing despite the associated financial risks.
Additionally, it also translates to a group of enthusiast adopting AI. i.e. they are instrumental in providing helpful feedback about its pros and cons, as well as influencing the technology to becoming mainstream.
Analysing of the Graph
To support Artificial Intelligence’s position in the Technology Adoption Life Cycle, it was found that the technology has been adopted by 12% of respondents in the MHI Annual Industry Report 2020. Approximately 26% of respondents are planning to adopt the technology within 1-2 years. Whereas, another 22% are adopting it within 3-5 years.
Best Time to Adopt
Artificial Intelligence is at its very early stage of adoption. While there is a financial risk involved in its adoption based on its position on the Technology Adoption Lifecycle curve, the chances for it surpassing the Chasm are significantly high based on the success rate of its sub-disciplines. AI, therefore, has the potential to create a competitive advantage for your business, especially now that only an approximate 12% of companies are utilizing it.
AI is unique in its features as it is built by putting together various disciplines that cohesively work towards achieving human like analytical results. Risk averse businesses who do not want to invest in a neoteric technology just yet have an option to choose the disciplines most likely to suit their warehouse environment and gain equivalent competitive advantage. To find out more about these disciplines and how they can be deployed in your warehouse environment, speak to an expert at TEMPO today.
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