AI & Digital Production
Machine learning, data-driven value creation and responsible AI systems for the production of the future:
Artificial intelligence is becoming a central element of future production and value creation systems. It enables adaptive manufacturing processes, data-driven decisions, smart machines, and new business models. At the same time, it raises fundamental questions about transparency, participation, responsibility, and sustainability.
The New Production Institute investigates the use of AI along the entire value creation process: from product development through production and use to reuse and circular economy.
We combine technological perspectives with social science, design and ecological issues — and thus develop new concepts for responsible, future-proof AI in production.
AI-powered production & smart manufacturing
We are researching how machine learning, data analytics, and intelligent control systems can make production processes more flexible, efficient, and sustainable, for example through:
- Automated manufacturing processes
- AI-based quality assurance
- Process optimization
- Intelligent robots
- Automation in OpenLabs
- Digital Twins
Data-driven value creation & circular economy
AI opens up new possibilities for using resources more efficiently and closing cycles.
AI for optimizing material flows with a focus on:
- Life cycle analyses (LCA) using data-driven models
- Predictive Recycling & Repairability Models
- Sustainable product and process design through AI
Decentralized production, open labs & networked systems
The combination of AI and decentralized value creation models creates new potential for local, demand-oriented production:
- How does AI support collaborative open labs?
- How can distributed production resources be coordinated intelligently?
- What role does AI play in open production ecosystems?
- How can AI promote transparency and participation?
AI, Innovation & Sustainability
The New Production Institute combines technological innovation with social design. AI is not just a tool for increasing efficiency – it influences how we organize work, share knowledge, and distribute responsibility in value creation systems. Through our interdisciplinary approach combining technology, design, sustainability and social science, we create new perspectives for the responsible use of AI in production.
Below is a selection of projects with successful AI implementation from our research partners.
Open-source laser cutter with AI function
The OLSK Large Laser v3 is a modular, open-source based laser cutter that integrates AI-powered design and work file creation directly into the machine through the in-house OLOS operating system. Users can automatically generate designs from images or text prompts, optimize cutting and engraving paths, and thus significantly accelerate the creative workflow. This laser combines powerful open-source hardware with innovative AI functions for simple, precise and creative production in open labs.
Farm robots with AI support
Kaizen Robotics develops modular, open-source-based robot platforms for sustainable agriculture: e.g. for weed removal, precise sowing, harvesting and monitoring.
By using AI, sensors and IoT, the systems enable targeted weed control — i.e., automated detection and removal of weeds without damaging crops.
In addition, the robots provide real-time data on plant growth and soil or crop condition, which allows for more precise decisions regarding sowing, care and harvesting — thus making agriculture more efficient and sustainable.
Sensing the Future of Value Creation
The Value Creation Radar project uses AI-supported text analysis methods to systematically evaluate extensive unstructured data sets and identify weak signals of structural change at an early stage. The focus is on developing an AI-supported horizon scanning process for the early detection of changes in value creation, which enables a scientifically sound, prospective assessment of future developments.
Using AI for Local Collaborative Manufacturing
Local production offers the potential to address current societal challenges, for example, by strengthening the resilience of the manufacturing industry, reducing greenhouse gas emissions and empowering regional actors.
The Project Production Next Door thus combines various AI approaches with established IT procedures to promote collaborative production in local networks.
>>> To this end, a web-based platform for coordinating product designers and producers was developed and linked to a web shop. The platform also serves as a basis for integrating modern AI solutions that support various functions, such as producer selection, the provision of decentralized competencies, and value chain creation, thereby improving their applicability for users.
