Siemens and Microsoft have made a decisive move in industrial automation with the expansion of Siemens Industrial Copilot, an AI-driven solution designed to transform manufacturing environments. This tool, which combines Siemens’ industrial expertise with Microsoft Azure OpenAI Service technology, enables companies to optimize complex processes at a time when skilled labor shortages and the need for innovation are critical challenges.
More than 100 companies, including Schaeffler and thyssenkrupp Automation Engineering, are already using Siemens Industrial Copilot to streamline operations and enhance productivity. Since its launch in July 2024, the Copilot has simplified tasks in sectors like engineering, where visualizations can be generated in seconds and codes require 80% less manual adjustments. With this tool, Siemens and Microsoft are leading the implementation of generative AI in automation engineering, making it accessible through Siemens Xcelerator, their open digital business platform.
Judson Althoff, Microsoft’s Executive Vice President and Chief Commercial Officer, highlighted the impact of this collaboration: “The integration of Microsoft Azure OpenAI Service into Siemens’ industrial solutions enables companies to overcome complex challenges, improve productivity, and remain competitive in an increasingly dynamic environment.”
Transformation in the Automotive and Energy Industries
thyssenkrupp Automation Engineering, one of the first global adopters of Siemens Industrial Copilot, plans to implement it in its battery production and hydrogen assembly lines starting in 2025. These technologies, which are critical for the transition to sustainable energy, demand high standards of precision and quality. The tool allows for automatic management of data, configuration of sensors, and generation of detailed reports on battery inspections, ensuring compliance with stringent quality regulations in the electric vehicle sector.
“For us, Siemens Industrial Copilot represents an innovative solution addressing the challenges of labor shortages and increasing complexity in battery testing,” commented Dr. Volkmar Dinstuhl, a board member of thyssenkrupp AG and CEO of thyssenkrupp Automotive Technology.
Optimization for the Industry with Generative AI
The Siemens Industrial Copilot stands out for its advanced real-time assistance and problem-solving capabilities, reducing the reliance on labor for repetitive and documentation tasks. The chat function, which responds to technical inquiries instantly, along with machine learning capabilities, allows engineers to focus on higher-value tasks, decreasing downtime in production.
“With Microsoft, we are scaling industrial AI so that our customers across the industry become more resilient, competitive, and sustainable,” stated Cedrik Neike, a member of Siemens AG’s Board of Directors and CEO of Siemens Digital Industries.
A Glimpse into the Future: Presentations at SPS Expo 2024
Siemens will present more details about Siemens Industrial Copilot at the upcoming SPS Expo in Nuremberg, Germany, in November 2024. With this tool, Siemens and Microsoft continue their commitment to transforming the industry through innovation and harnessing AI, driving operational efficiency and sustainability in strategic sectors.
Through this alliance, Siemens and Microsoft strengthen the digital ecosystem of Siemens Xcelerator, contributing to the evolution of the industry through intelligent solutions and advanced automation, which are essential elements in the digital transformation of the coming years.