If there is one thing that affects the shipping industry, from ship building to the launching of the end result, it’s the supply chain. This complicated dance of ensuring that the production and distribution of a product is handled effectively and efficiently. It impacts the building of each individual ship and becomes a top priority for the shipping companies who are the end users of your final product. As we continue to advance into the age of artificial intelligence, supply chains are becoming more and more reliant on this new technology. And even if you want to try to delay its implementation in your shipyard, the future is already here. Here are a few things you should know about AI and your supply chain networks.
- Robotic sorting. One of the most exciting aspects about AI in manufacturing is robotic sorting. Machine learning is now being used to expedite sorting at all levels of the process. It is widely used to sort letters and packages across a wide range of businesses, but it can also be utilized for palatized shipments.
- Visual inspections. Augmented reality is another form of artificial intelligence that people have talked about for a while. Unlike virtual reality, which creates a completely virtual environment, augmented reality enhances the world around us. For inspections of shipments, it can allow you to use specially designed cameras to take photos and inspect cargo without opening every container. This can catch damage or problems long before they become critical.
- Demand forecasting. AI is particularly adept at processing large amounts of data in a very short time. Where demand forecasting can be difficult for the human brain, having to take into account all kinds of possible effects on the outcome, AI can do this in almost no time at all. This is affecting the supply chain positively as accuracy has always been critical but very difficult to achieve.
- Supplier risk analysis. Your supply chain AI partner can also help you pick the best suppliers for your system. While we often base relationships on gut feelings, there are other contributing factors. AI can review the supplier candidates you’re consider, analyze for performance and risk and make recommendations that will help you stay on track.
- Production planning. Where the biggest obstacles come in your supply chain is often with highly customized build-to-order projects. They can be more difficult to plan for since they’re not the high production jobs your shipyard is used to building. But AI can help you plan for these products by ensuring you have, or have access to, the parts that you need to complete it on time.
Are you ready for more intelligent supply chain networks at your shipyard? Contact the team at Hutco to learn more.