Machine Learning (AI) Trends Are Changing Manufacturing
November 21, 2022
The Industrial Internet of Things has and continues to help manufacturers. IIoT has made manufacturing efficiency, safety, and productivity better than ever before. Now the use of artificial intelligence and machine learning has joined the party. AI and machine learning simplifies managed data collected during manufacturing.
Machine Learning and AI
What is Artificial Intelligence (AI)?
“Artificial Intelligence is the field of developing computers and robots that are capable of behaving in ways that both mimic and go beyond human capabilities.” AI-enabled systems can analyze and contextualize data. The data collected provides information and triggers actions without human interference. AI in manufacturing fields uses technology to automate complex tasks. It also seeks out and finds unknown patterns in manufacturing processes and workflows. AI in manufacturing uses data to make faster, more accurate decisions. AI systems are quicker and more reliable than human operations.
What is Machine Learning?
Machine learning and artificial intelligence are often thought to be the same. People use both when referring to the same concept, but they're actually different. AI is a broad concept of using machines or computers to replicate human thinking. Machine learning is more specific, it's an application of AI. Machines and computers are able to learn without the need for human programming. “Machine learning is a pathway to artificial intelligence. This subcategory of AI uses algorithms to automatically learn insights and recognize patterns from data, applying that learning to make increasingly better decisions.” It works by big amounts of data to train algorithms. These algorithms are then used on new data to find hidden patterns and predict outcomes. Machine learning allows algorithms to learn and improve processes on their own. This makes them like humans, only without the need for humans. There are two different types of machine learning. These include supervised and unsupervised machine learning.
Types of ML in Manufacturing
Supervised Machine Learning
Supervised machine learning is an approach that’s defined by its use of labeled datasets. These datasets can train or administer algorithms into classifying data or predicting outcomes. Using labeled inputs and outputs, the model can measure its accuracy and learn over time. Two types of problems are possible when supervised data mining occurs. These include:
- Classification: These problems use an algorithm to assign test data into specific categories. There are common types of classification algorithms. These include linear classifiers, support vector machines, decision trees and random forests.
- Regression: Using an algorithm to understand the relationship between dependent and independent variables. Regression models are helpful for predicting numerical values based on different data points. Some popular regression algorithms are linear regression, logistic regression, and polynomial regression.
Unsupervised Machine Learning
Unsupervised machine learning uses algorithms to analyze and cluster unlabeled data sets. These algorithms discover hidden patterns in data without the need for human intervention. This is why they're labeled as unsupervised. Unsupervised learning models are beneficial for three main tasks:
- Clustering: This is a data mining technique for grouping unlabeled data. based on their similarities or differences. This technique is helpful for market segmentation, image compression, etc.
- Association: Uses different rules to find relationships between variables in a given dataset. These methods are beneficial for market basket analysis and recommendation engines. For example, “Customers Who Bought This Item Also Bought” recommendations.
- Dimensionality Reduction: When features or dimensions in a given dataset is too high. This reduces the number of data inputs to a manageable size. It does this while also preserving the data integrity. Often, this technique is best in the preprocessing data stage.
Uses of ML in Manufacturing
- Predictive Maintenance: Tech draws from machine and equipment data to identify patterns. These patterns point to possible failure. This lets relevant operators and maintenance crews fix machines before they break down. This reduces downtime so that the line continues moving.
- Supply Chain Management: Manufacturers rely on their suppliers providing high-quality materials. High quality materials are beneficial for the production process. AI and machine learning can sort through different supply-chain-related tasks. These include warehouse and inventory management, inbound and outbound shipments, and customer demand. This prevents manufacturers from falling behind on order fulfillment and productivity.
- Utilizing Digital Twins: Digital twins are virtual representations of physical objects. In manufacturing, this relates to new products, equipment and even shop floor layouts. Manufacturing businesses leverage machine learning to optimize product design. They also use it to customize the production line. These things create more efficient operation.
- Utilizing Energy and Prediction: Machine learning analyzes raw data from factory machines. This creates patterns that showcase energy consumption and preventing it. Additionally, manufacturers use the technology to predict future consumption, allowing proper planning.
- Predictive Quality and Yield: Machine learning detects causes of yield losses. It also detects causes of quality defects. The tech identifies probable wastage causes, allowing manufacturers to adjust their operations.
Machine Learning with Keyence
"A vision system combines industrial cameras, lenses, and lighting to automate visual inspections of manufactured products." Here at Seifert, Keyence is a brand of vision system we use. Keyence offers the most complete vision system lineup. The CV-X Series is an innovative easy to use system. It uses high-speed cameras to solve inspection applications across all manufacturing industries. It incorporates cameras and lighting to photograph parts in-line. This process improves efficiency and ensures quality. This system can be beneficial to automotive, electronic, medical, food and packaging manufacturing. You can learn more about their products through their online catalogs. Common applications include:
- Defect detection
- Surface inspection
- Presence of parts and features
- Assembly verification
- Vision guided robotics
- Measurement
- Code reading
According to Full Scale, Machine learning and vision systems relate to one another. Machine learning has improved computer vision about recognition and tracking. It offers effective methods for acquisition, image processing, and object focus. Vision systems broaden machine learning. They involve images/videos sensing devices, interpreting devices, and the interpretation stage. Machine learning is useful in both the interpreting device and interpretation stage.
Conclusion
AI and machine learning is gaining popularity in the manufacturing world. These processes simplify data collection and workloads. Increased availability of data and computing power justify this claim. Adopting AI and machine learning processes will lead to optimized machine usage. Investing in a vision system could go hand in hand with machine learning and AI. If you’re thinking about adapting any of these things into your business, get in touch. Let's assess your manufacturing processes and determine what’s best for you. Contact us today to learn more!
AI isn’t just a buzzword anymore, and it’s not just for Fortune 500 companies. It’s quietly reshaping how businesses—especially small and mid-sized ones—manage their IT, protect their data, and improve productivity. Yet for many business owners, AI still feels like something out of reach. Maybe you’ve heard of ChatGPT or Microsoft Copilot, but you’re not quite sure how it fits into your world. That’s where we come in! We’re breaking down what AI means for your IT operations today—and how Managed IT Service Providers (MSPs) like us are helping businesses like yours get ahead without getting overwhelmed. What AI Is Doing for IT Management at SMBs (Right Now) From cybersecurity to automation, AI is already making IT faster, smarter, and more secure. Here’s how: 1. AI-Powered Cybersecurity AI tools are becoming essential to detect and stop threats to your business before they become disasters. 24/7 threat detection : Tools like SentinelOne and Microsoft Defender use AI to monitor your systems in real-time and spot suspicious activity—even before a human could. Phishing protection : AI analyzes emails and links to catch impersonation attempts and scam messages. Automated response : If a threat is detected, AI tools can automatically isolate infected systems and prevent spread—within seconds. This is key, pairing your 24/7/365 threat detection with 24/7/365 action! 2. Smarter IT Automation AI isn’t just about fighting cybercrime—it’s helping businesses save time, reduce manual work, and operate more efficiently. Here are some examples of how AI is automating key IT functions behind the scenes: Predictive maintenance : AI can flag hardware or software issues before they cause downtime. User behavior analysis for better permissions control : AI tools can monitor how employees use systems and flag risky access patterns—helping prevent accidental data exposure or insider threats. Intelligent alert prioritization: Instead of flooding your IT dashboard with noise, AI filters and ranks alerts by severity—so real issues don’t get buried under false positives. Self-healing systems : In some cases, AI can detect and fix common problems (like restarting a frozen service) without any human involvement. These aren’t hypothetical tools—they’re already in use by MSPs and IT platforms supporting businesses like yours every day. 3. Productivity Gains with Tools You Already Have If your business uses Microsoft 365, you already have access to AI—and probably aren’t using it fully yet. Microsoft Copilot (Word, Excel, Outlook, Teams): Draft emails, summarize meetings, or create reports with just a few clicks. Summarize long threads and documents Build presentations or clean up Excel data without formulas or formatting headaches. Outlook Suggestions : AI can suggest meeting times, draft responses, or flag important messages. Teams AI features: Transcripts, highlights, and action items from meetings—delivered directly after the call. These tools don’t require a tech degree to use—they just need someone to turn them on, configure them properly, and show you how to use them. That’s where we come in. Our job is to make it easy, secure, and practical for you so you can focus on what you know best…your business. Why Business Owners Shouldn’t Wait AI isn’t going away. And for businesses that get ahead of it, there’s a real opportunity to: Outpace competitors with faster decisions and smarter tools Protect against modern cyber threats Reduce costs through automation and efficiency Empower employees with tools that make work easier, not harder The good news? You don’t need a full-time IT team or a PhD in machine learning. You just need the right partner to guide you. Let’s Talk About AI for Your Business Curious about what AI could do for your business? Overwhelmed by options and don’t know where to start? Let’s fix that. Schedule a call with our team to discuss your business, your systems, and where AI could make the biggest difference—today and in the future.
The Real-World Benefits of Keeping It All In-House
For many businesses with up to 100 employees, in-house IT management is a constant balancing act for leadership. You need reliable technology, strong cybersecurity and fast support, but hiring an in-house IT team can be expensive and difficult to scale. Plus, simply making a quality IT hiring decision can be challenging when you or your team don’t possess excellent IT skills yourself. The key decision to keep IT in-house vs. outsourcing is often a financial one. Many business owners assume that keeping IT in-house is more affordable than hiring an IT Managed Service Provider (MSP)—but that’s not always the case. In fact, outsourcing IT to an MSP can provide real cost savings while also delivering substantial incremental value. Let’s break down the numbers of the outsourced MSP vs. in-house IT decision so you can make the best choice for your business. The True Cost of Hiring an In-House IT Team If you're considering hiring an internal IT person, it’s essential to understand the full cost of employment, not just the salary. Here's what you can expect to pay for a single IT manager (estimates only, may vary by geographic location):
In today's competitive market, efficient design and build processes are crucial for manufacturing and maintenance success. Partnering with an engineering services firm that utilizes the latest technology, software and tools can offer significant advantages.
Seifert Technologies recently partnered with the Stark Education Partnership (SEP), Fairless High School and Perry High School and provided a career day for the students. The objective was to provide an insight to local area high school students on the careers and opportunities available right here in Stark County. Our presentations focused on the services which we provide to our clients related to Engineering, IT, and Staffing. We featured interactive displays on Robotics, Machine Design, 3D CAD, PLC Motion Control, IT Infrastructure, Power BI, Software Development, and Career Services. Jaecey Hudson holds the position of Career Champion at Stark Education Partnership (SEP). Her role places her within several local High Schools including Fairless and she counsels the students on their career paths. Jaecey was instrumental in scheduling the day with Fairless High School. SEP is a catalyst, engaging and collaborating with education, business, civic and community stakeholders to drive sustainable improvement and innovation to provide all students with education and career success. SEP serves education, business, and community organizations in the Stark County region as a connector and partner. SEP collaborates with local foundations to ensure a continued focus on meeting emerging needs and works in complementary fashion with other nonprofits throughout the region. Stark Education Partnership’s vision to build generations of successful individuals who fulfill their potential and grow roots in Stark County is brought to life by engaging students in real-world workplace experiences. We also worked closely with the Robotics / STEM department at Perry High School to plan the day for these students. Stephanie Laskey and her team from Perry were the high school coordinators for the event. The Perry Local Project Lead the Way classes emphasize various engineering aspects, spanning from introduction to engineering design, computer manufacturing, digital electronics, aerospace engineering, to principles of engineering. Students were enthusiastic and actively involved in witnessing engineering principles in action at Seifert Technologies. They gained insight into the structure of engineering firms and the key attributes of successful engineers. They left Seifert Technologies with new information, eager to apply their newfound knowledge in the world of engineering. To learn more details about the services of Seifert Technologies, contact us at (330) 833-2700 or sales@seifert.com. Please visit www.seifert.com for more information on our full range of capabilities. For more information related to SEP, please visit www.edpartner.org .
Manufacturing can be traced back to the Industrial Revolution. The Industrial Revolution changed the way that manufacturers worked all over the world. There were inventions of new machines and technology. The new production made manufacturing cheaper, faster, and more efficient. The Industrial Revolution changed manufacturing for the modern world. In the First Industrial Revolution, which began in the late 18 th century was a significant change in human history. It transitioned to industrial societies, fueled by innovations in textile manufacturing, steam power, and iron production. This period increased efficiency in the mass production of goods. The invention of the steam engine led to the increase of railways. The First Industrial Revolution was the first step in modernizing the world. The Second Industrial Revolution is known as the Technological Revolution. This happened in the mid-19th century and was known for the adoption of electric power. This transformed the manufacturing process in steel. It led to the invention of the telegraph, telephone, television, and radio. Advancement in transportation was drastically improved leading to increased urbanization. The Third Industrial Revolution is known as the Digital Revolution. It happened in the late 20 th century with digital technology. This was the rise of the internet and digital computers. This changed the way people interacted with each other. The World Wide Web was developed. This led to the digitalization of every known modern aspect of life. The Fourth Industrial Revolution is referred to as Industry 4.0. This revolution is known for technologies such as artificial intelligence, the Internet of Things (IoT), 3D printing, and robotics. The Fourth Industrial Revolution is expected to have impacts on society to increase quality, production, and drive economic growth.
Phishing, Smishing, and Vishing are all ways that people try to get sensitive information from other people. They are all done in similar ways, but they have different ways of getting this information. It is important to know the difference between the three and how it looks when someone is getting targeted. Phishing Phishing is an online scam that gets sent to email accounts. It consists of getting sent a link or attachment from an unfamiliar email domain. When a user clicks on the link or attachment that is when the sender gets access to data. There are many different types of phishing to watch out for. Some of include spear, email, and whaling. Spear phishing is when someone specifically targets one person. They do this by adding their name, job, or social life. Whale phishing is when someone targets a big target like a manager, owner, or celebrities. They target these people since they have a lot of information on companies or other people. Smishing Smishing is a scam that gets sent as a text message (SMS). Scammers send a text to a target. The text that the target receives looks like a text from a trustworthy company. The scammers make the message look like it is the real company, and they send a link that they want the target to click on. There are different ways that these messages look. It can look like you won money or a prize. It can also look like a tax report or bank statement. Vishing Vishing is a scam where the target gets called over the phone rather than receiving a text message or email. The target is selected, and they call trying to convince them to download software for their device. How To Protect Yourself from All Three There are many ways to prevent these things from happening. Most importantly, do not click on links or attachments from unknown sources. Report suspicious emails, text messages, or calls that you receive. When you report these, you protect yourself and others from getting information taken. Seifert Technologies’ IT Division is your source for cybersecurity awareness. We are a registered agent of KnowB4 Products ( www.knowbe4.com ). These products implement sate of the art programs which: Send fully automated simulated phishing attacks, using thousands of customizable templates with unlimited usage Train your users with access to the world's largest library of always-fresh awareness training content AI-Driven phishing and training recommendations based on your users' phishing and training history Use Assessments to gauge proficiency of your users in security knowledge and security culture attitudes Easy user management using Active Directory Integration Contact our IT Service Team To learn more details about cybersecurity training contact us at (330) 833-2700 or sales@seifert.com. Please visit www.seifert.com/itservices for more information on our full range capabilities.
For over 10 years the team at Seifert Technologies has participated in the Toys for Tots program. Every year, our employees show their support by donating new toys which are then delivered to local area families. It is an awesome way to give back to our Stark County community. We also want to thank all of our employees for their wonderful donations. Way to go team!
Last month we celebrated a very special evening. Leslie Callahan, who has been with our firm since the beginning years, celebrated her 30th year with the organization. Team members from both our offices in Massillon and Nashville gathered to celebrate this well-deserved accomplishment.
At Seifert Associates, we have been meeting the challenges of hiring technical talent for decades. Finding the right candidate for the right position can be a challenge. Thus, we have put together a list of the top questions we get from HR and give ideas on how to overcome the challenges we face in today’s job market. What Are the Top Hiring Challenges Today? First, we must talk about current hiring challenges. Today, employers encounter new recruitment hurdles as the job market progresses. Employers' obstacles and difficulties arise when it comes to recruiting and hiring qualified candidates. These challenges can come in many forms, such as a shortage of skilled workers, a highly competitive job market, or a lack of diversity and inclusion in the hiring process. The rapid changes in both technology and the evolving job market also contribute to these hiring challenges. Employers must overcome these hiring challenges to attract and retain top talent, as well as build a thriving workforce to drive organizational growth and success. Here is a List of the Top Concerns for Hiring: Finding Quality Candidates Attracting the right talent for a technical position is an employer's foremost concern. The more skilled the requirements are, the more the employee is sought after. With a limited workforce and intense competition for top-tier candidates, employers struggle when it comes to finding technical talent. Along with that, employers struggle to engage with candidates who are not actively seeking a new position. We spoke about the importance of collaborating with a recruiter who has strong experience with finding technical candidates in a previous blog, which you can review HERE . Attracting the Right Technical Talent Another challenge that employers face is attracting the right talent for a technical position. Highly skilled candidates today look for more than just a competitive salary. Candidates want to collaborate with a company that has a quality work culture. But they also want to seek employment with companies who share the same values, as well as have great benefits and a good understanding of work life balance. In fact, 46% of job seekers cite company culture as very important when choosing to apply to a company, and a shocking 47% of employees cite that company culture is the driving factor when looking for a new job. Skills Gap and Training
