Emerson and SiMa.ai partner on industrial edge AI PCs

Global automation company Emerson is collaborating with SiMa.ai to integrate advanced AI capabilities into Emerson’s industrial PCs, designed for use in demanding industrial environments.

The global industrial AI market is expected to grow from $43.6 billion in 2024 to $153.9 billion by 2030. A factor in this growth is the adoption of AI at the industrial edge, which enables real-time data analysis and operational responses, including issue detection, quality monitoring, and onsite interventions. Traditionally, these functions often relied on offline analysis or cloud-based systems. Edge AI allows continuous data processing closer to industrial operations.

SiMa.ai’s MLSoC (Machine Learning System on Chip) provides the computing platform for Emerson’s industrial PCs. The technology is intended to support AI workloads in industrial settings while enabling local data processing and security controls for operational data.

Key applications and potential benefits include:

• Autonomous Safety: Monitoring for leaks, fires, and unauthorised access in industrial environments.
• Increased Productivity: Supporting improvements in overall equipment effectiveness (OEE) through monitoring of uptime and quality.
• Enhanced Reliability: Maintaining operations in remote locations such as oil and gas fields where connectivity may be limited.
• Improved Product Quality: Detecting production defects earlier to allow operational adjustments and reduce waste.
• Reduced Capital Expenditure: Using equipment monitoring and predictive maintenance insights to help minimise unplanned downtime.
• Optimised Resource Use: Supporting more efficient use of materials and energy, particularly in hazardous environments where reducing human exposure may be beneficial.
• Air-gapped Installations: Enabling AI functionality in environments requiring isolated networks, including nuclear and power facilities.

As more organisations adopt autonomous and data-driven industrial systems, edge-based AI technologies are being integrated to support operational performance and security requirements. Emerson’s industrial PCs, combined with SiMa.ai technology, are designed to operate in environments involving temperature extremes and high-vibration conditions across industries including semiconductor manufacturing, energy management, and waste monitoring.

The compact design of the systems supports deployment across both discrete and process industries, including packaging, automotive manufacturing, and oilwell operations. Emerson states that its industrial AI offering combines smart sensors, edge computing, and analytics within a single technology stack.