Delta Electronics India has been a leading player in bringing international quality complete solutions to the industry. Spread across Automation, Power Electronics, and Infrastructure, Delta’s expertise lies both in design and manufacturing solutions that are becoming an important asset for the Indian industry. Here, Mr Manish Walia, Head – Automation, Delta Electronics India, shares his views on AI-powered industrial automation.
How can AI-powered automation revolutionise Auto Sector? & What is Delta’s role in the industrial automation sector?
AI-powered automation has the potential to revolutionize the Auto Sector by introducing unprecedented levels of efficiency, safety, and innovation. Here’s how:
Production Optimization: AI algorithms can analyze vast amounts of data to optimize production processes, ensuring minimal wastage and maximum efficiency. This leads to cost savings and quicker time-to-market for vehicles.
Predictive Maintenance: AI can predict when equipment and vehicles require maintenance, reducing downtime and improving operational efficiency. This predictive approach minimizes unscheduled maintenance and maximizes asset utilization.
Quality Control: AI-powered vision systems can detect defects and anomalies during manufacturing, ensuring higher quality standards and reducing the likelihood of recalls.
Autonomous Vehicles: AI-driven technologies are essential for the development of autonomous vehicles. Machine learning algorithms enable vehicles to interpret data from sensors and make real-time decisions, enhancing safety on the roads.
Customization: AI can analyze customer preferences and market trends to offer personalized features and designs, enabling manufacturers to cater to individual customer needs.
Delta Electronics plays a significant role in the industrial automation sector by providing cutting-edge solutions that drive productivity, energy efficiency, and sustainability. We offer a comprehensive range of automation products, including industrial robots, motion control systems, human-machine interfaces, and more. Our expertise in power electronics and automation technologies enables us to deliver integrated solutions that optimize manufacturing processes, reduce energy consumption, and enhance overall operational efficiency. With a focus on innovation and customer-centric solutions, Delta is committed to transforming industries through advanced automation technologies.
You have been in the industrial automation industry with Delta for around 15 years, How has the technology evolved over the years and what changes you have witnessed?
When I initially joined the industry, industrial automation was in its fledgling state. The field of robotics was characterized by large, expensive machines that presented challenges in programming. These robots were predominantly employed for performing repetitive and straightforward tasks. However, the passage of time has borne witness to remarkable advancements in industrial automation technology. Robots have undergone a profound transformation, evolving into smaller, more cost-effective, and programmatically accessible entities. Their capabilities have expanded to encompass a diverse spectrum of functions, including intricate tasks such as welding, painting, and assembly.
Parallel to the evolution of robotics, various other components of industrial automation have experienced rapid progress. Sensors have attained heightened levels of sophistication, enabling them to identify product defects and potential issues with greater accuracy. Controllers have evolved to wield greater power, facilitating the monitoring and regulation of complex production processes. Additionally, software has undergone user-centric improvements, simplifying the design and implementation of automation solutions. These collective advancements have led to a heightened level of sophistication and ubiquity in industrial automation. Its influence has permeated an array of industries, from automotive to manufacturing and logistics. This pervasive presence has played a pivotal role in enhancing productivity, elevating product quality, and streamlining operational efficiency.
Reflecting on the past 15 years, several notable transformations have unfolded within the realm of industrial automation: The emergence of collaborative robots, or cobots, which operate harmoniously alongside human counterparts, prioritizing safety and collaborative synergy. The growing integration of artificial intelligence (AI) into automation, empowering robots to autonomously make decisions and execute actions.The surge in popularity of cloud-based automation solutions, simplifying the deployment and management of automation systems. A heightened emphasis on sustainability, resulting in the development of energy-efficient and environmentally conscious automation solutions. As we peer into the future, I maintain a sense of optimism regarding the continued rapid evolution of the industrial automation industry. Anticipated advancements hold the potential to redefine production methodologies and usher in transformative changes across diverse sectors
What are the advantages and disadvantages of Industrial Automation? Does this impact the jobs?
Industrial automation offers a range of advantages that enhance operational efficiency and productivity. Through streamlined processes and reduced human error, automation yields faster, more consistent output. This increased efficiency is coupled with improved product quality as automated systems ensure precision, resulting in fewer defects. Moreover, automation provides significant cost savings by minimizing labor expenses and waste, fostering long-term financial gains. Integration of automation enhances workplace safety by assigning hazardous tasks to machines, mitigating accidents and creating a safer environment. Automated systems operate around the clock, bolstering operational continuity and productivity beyond regular hours. Scalability is another advantage, allowing businesses to adapt automated processes to shifting demand.
However, there are drawbacks to industrial automation. Initial implementation costs are substantial, involving investments in technology, training, and integration that may deter some organizations. One major concern everyone has from automation is the potential job displacement resulting from automation’s proficiency in repetitive tasks. Despite this, it introduces new job roles like automation engineers, programmers, and technicians. Employees can upskill to manage automated systems, offering higher-paying positions. Automation also enhances workplace safety by reducing hazardous tasks for humans.
In conclusion, industrial automation brings both advantages and challenges. Benefits include efficiency, quality, cost savings, safety, continuous operations, and scalability. Challenges encompass initial costs, technological dependency, job displacement, complexity, limited flexibility, and employee resistance. Managed thoughtfully, industrial automation can create a more productive and secure workplace while navigating associated challenges.
How much is Delta investing in India for building the EV charging ecosystem?
I am pleased to share that our commitment to India’s growth and technological advancement led us to announce a substantial investment of $500 million in 2020. Our primary emphasis has been on bolstering research and development initiatives. Since then, we have taken significant strides, establishing a state-of-the-art Research and Development Development Center and a cutting-edge power lab in Bangalore. These facilities are now home to a talented team of 350 engineers who are driving innovation. In alignment with our vision, we have also acquired 120 acres of land in KrishnaGiri, Tamilnadu where we have successfully erected six advanced plants. Notably, two of these plants are already operational, and our ambitious plan is to inaugurate four additional plants before the year’s end. These facilities are strategically designed to cater to both the domestic and export markets, embodying our dedication to contributing to India’s technological ecosystem and economic growth.
Our expansion efforts encompass a diverse range of sectors, reflecting our commitment to addressing various industry needs. Specifically, our focus spans across crucial domains such as EV charging solutions, telecommunications, data centers, industrial automation, and power supplies. This multifaceted approach underscores our mission to play a pivotal role in shaping India’s future across these transformative sectors.
What are the emerging trends in the Industrial Automatic, especially in the automobile sector?
In the dynamic landscape of Industrial Automation, particularly within the automotive sector, several noteworthy trends are emerging. One significant trend is the increasing adoption of robotics and automation solutions to streamline the manufacturing process. These technologies enhance precision and efficiency, especially in assembly line operations. Another prominent trend is the integration of Industry 4.0 principles, including data analytics and the Internet of Things (IoT), to enable predictive maintenance, reduce downtime, and enhance overall equipment efficiency. Furthermore, there is a growing emphasis on sustainability, with a shift toward eco-friendly manufacturing practices. At Delta Electronics India, as a provider of automation solutions for car manufacturers, we play a pivotal role in enhancing production processes and efficiency within the automotive sector. Our advanced industrial automation solutions are tailored to meet the evolving needs of the industry, ensuring that automotive manufacturers stay competitive in an ever-changing market.
What challenges do you face in adapting to these evolving trends?
Adapting to the swiftly evolving realm of industrial automation presents multifaceted challenges for stakeholders. A pivotal hurdle is integrating these innovations into existing systems and workflows, demanding both technical and organizational adjustments. Businesses aiming to incorporate artificial intelligence, Internet of Things (IoT) devices, robotics, and other advancements must reassess their infrastructure, processes, and workforce competencies. Security and privacy concerns emerge as substantial roadblocks. As device interconnectivity grows, cyberattack and data breach risks escalate. Safeguarding data, ensuring resilient systems, and complying with evolving regulations become crucial tasks. The rapid pace of technological change compounds challenges. Organizations must grapple with quick investment obsolescence and the need for ongoing employee upskilling. High upfront costs and learning curves could deter some from adopting these technologies. Collaboration and standardization challenges also loom large. With a multitude of technologies in play, ensuring compatibility and interoperability is intricate. Establishing common standards and protocols is vital for seamless integration.
Moreover, while automation enhances efficiency, potential job displacement is a societal concern. Addressing workforce impact and facilitating reskilling are imperative. Ethical implications add another layer of complexity. AI decisions, algorithmic biases, and broader societal consequences require judicious handling. In sum, the promising trends in industrial automation come with navigational demands. Addressing them necessitates a comprehensive approach encompassing technology, organization, ethics, and society.
What is Delta’s vision for the future? What newer technologies is Delta focusing on?
India is an important market for Delta and Our dedication to localized production is a clear testament to this importance. Our forthcoming factories in Krishnagiri are fully equipped to produce items that are currently being manufactured in other Delta facilities. This step aligns seamlessly with our commitment to amplify investments in India, aiming to provide cutting-edge technology, comprehensive solutions, and a substantial increase in employment opportunities. At this juncture, our primary focus will be on energy-saving solutions, enhancing factory system operation and equipment efficiency, optimizing power efficiency, and achieving energy saving and management strategy for equipment, system, and operation.
