Nexen Tire America has launched an AI-driven automated tire product inspection system aimed at revolutionising quality control processes within the tyre manufacturing sector. The company has implemented this innovative system using machine vision technology, which leverages cameras to recognise and analyse visual information. This technology includes advanced 'X-ray inspection equipment' intended for the early detection of structural defects, and 'laser interferometry inspection equipment'—known as Shearography—designed to identify air bubbles within tyre structures.
The AI component significantly enhances the efficacy of the inspection process, boasting a defect detection reproducibility rate of up to 99.96%. This leap in accuracy suggests a substantial improvement over prior practices that relied heavily on human visual assessment.
To bolster the system's practical application, Nexen Tire collaborated with Neurocell Inc., which is recognised for its AutoML (machine learning automation) solutions, and PDS Solution Inc., known for expertise in tyre design, analysis, and data processing. This partnership spans from the initial design phase to the full implementation of the system. The incorporation of Machine Learning Operations (MLOps) technology has been particularly pivotal, as it optimises and automates the entire lifecycle of AI models. This includes essential steps such as selective data collection for AI training, the training and validation of the AI model, and monitoring post-deployment.
Nexen Tire's initiatives have greatly expedited the model development process, compressing the timeframe for creating deep learning models from a duration of 6 to 12 months down to as little as two days. Furthermore, the platform-based system enables immediate deployment for new factories or equipment, thereby facilitating rapid operational integration across various production sites. As a result, AI that has been trained with data from one factory can aid in quickly stabilising inspection systems introduced into other facilities.
The implementation of this AI-based automated inspection system by Nexen Tire highlights a significant advancement in manufacturing quality assurance, setting a precedent for future innovations within the industry.
Source: Noah Wire Services