Siemens, Microsoft boost global copilot rollout
Over 100 companies in Europe and the US are using a generative AI copilot from Siemens for automation, with thyssenkrupp Automation Engineering the first with a global roll out.
Thyssenkrupp is planning the rollout of the Siemens Industrial Copilot Copilot in 2025, using Microsoft Azure OpenAI Service.
thyssenkrupp Automation Engineering, which helped develop the genAI copilot, is now the first to plan to use the Copilot globally for battery system manufacturing lines. Beginning in early 2025, their machines will be engineered with the genAI assistant.
“The collaboration between Siemens and Microsoft marks a pivotal moment in the industrial sector; one where AI Transformation becomes a cornerstone for innovation and operational efficiency,” said Judson Althoff, executive vice president and chief commercial officer at Microsoft. “By integrating Microsoft Azure OpenAI Service into Siemens’ industrial solutions, we are equipping companies with cloud-based AI tools to simplify complex challenges, drive productivity, and help them stay competitive in an increasingly dynamic environment.”
“Together with Microsoft we scale industrial AI, empowering our customers throughout the industry to become more resilient, competitive and sustainable. thyssenkrupp Automation Engineering shows how customers can use the Siemens Industrial Copilot even in highly demanding environments as a major efficiency boost,” said Cedrik Neike, Member of the Managing Board of Siemens AG and CEO of Digital Industries.
The launch of the industrial copilot in July 2024 after a pilot with Schaeffler allows engineers to create panel visualizations in 30 seconds and generate code that requires only 20% adaptation. This streamlines workflows, reducing manual effort and addressing the skilled labour shortage. The chat function also provides instant, precise answers, eliminating the need for lengthy searches.
One of the systems from thyssenkrupp Automation Engineering for battery manufacturing uses sensors, cameras, and measurement systems to monitor battery cell quality across multiple stages, conducting complex evaluations to detect discharges beyond set thresholds.
The copilot is used for the development and operation of this battery machine by automating repetitive tasks like data management, sensor configuration, and the reporting of each step necessary to meet strict battery inspection requirements. The Copilot supports engineering by handling both routine and essential documentation tasks, allowing engineers to focus on complex, value-added work, while its real-time problem-solving capabilities minimize downtime and ensure smooth production.
“The Siemens Industrial Copilot will prospectively ease our workload and address the pressing challenges of labor shortages and increasing complexity in battery testing. This AI-powered solution will be a game-changer for our industry, and we will actively roll it out across our machines”, said Dr. Volkmar Dinstuhl, Member of the Executive Board of thyssenkrupp AG and CEO of thyssenkrupp Automotive Technology.