Artificial intelligence is a controversial topic. One concern is that the new technology can take jobs away from humans, especially in creative segments such as writing and visual arts. However, there are also instances where AI can work with employees to make tasks easier.
Automakers are finding many applications for AI. For example, Nvidia supplies chips to Volkswagen, Uber, and China’s Baidu to improve the advanced driver-assist systems of vehicles. Meanwhile, BMW uses the technology to help design wheels because the software can generate multiple ideas quickly.
Perfect Paint For Porsches
Porsche is also taking advantage of AI by using it in the paint shop at the automaker’s Leipzig, Germany, factory. After the appropriate color goes on the body, humans are necessary to inspect the finish visually and ensure the quality of such high-end vehicles.
Now, AI is helping to do this job. The new automatic defect detection system is a series of sensors on robotic arms. The appendages scan the vehicle’s exterior every 2.5 millimeters and evaluate the results in less than 100 seconds. Ten image-processing computers analyze the result, looking for imperfections like pinholes, craters, dust, or other debris.
When the system finds an imperfection, it forwards the location to the human workers. From there, they can perform the necessary paint corrections, such as buffing and wiping. The technology also records the location of defects to monitor trends in defect type or location. The company can then improve the painting robots to avoid these problems in the future.
See The Tech In Action
The video above shows how this system works. The arms trace over the painted body shell, a beautifully choreographed display as the two appendages check the vehicle’s exterior. Then, humans take over the actual physical labor.
Porsche is among the luxury automakers that let deep-pocketed customers choose custom vehicle colors. Its Paint to Sample program offers an expanded range of 127 shades for the 911 at a cost of $11,190. The Paint to Sample Plus option adds the ability to specify a truly unique hue for $31,070.
TopSpeed’s Take
Porsche’s application of AI in the paint shop is the type of application where the tech could help people rather than replace them. Plus, customers get a car with a higher-quality paint job. This strategy is seemingly the best of both worlds.
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