AI and the Future of the Machine Design

This article discusses advantages of artificially intelligent (AI) systems and future of machine design. Advances in AI, combined synergistically with other technologies such as cognitive computing, Internet of Things, 3D (or even 4D) printing, advanced robotics, virtual and mixed reality, and human–machine interfaces are transforming what, where, and how products are designed, manufactured, assembled, distributed, serviced, and upgraded. The research and related activities may ultimately result in the development of self-repairing, self-healing, self-adaptive, self-reconfiguring systems—and products that ‘operationally improve’ themselves. Instead of depreciating in value and capability, such products could improve over time. In time, the role of the human engineer may be that of a director rather than of a producer. Much of the technical aspect of engineering will be moved to the machine-based design system, just as one need not be able to operate a slide rule or complete an isometric drawing to be a successful engineer today.