10 | Plant & Works Engineering www.pwemag.co.uk February/March 2024 Insight Large language models are created using deep learning algorithms that are trained in massive amounts of text data. Recently, large language models have spread into various industries and increasingly applied in industrial automation. The ability of these models to understand and generate human language can greatly improve the efficiency of industrial processes. Our own conservative estimations show the potential of large language models to eliminate 20% of the effort required by an OEM to build a machine PLC application. The move from GPT-2 to GPT-4 enables models to handle more content as inputs, exponentially increasing the applications of large language models in industrial automation. Customising models for specific use cases or tasks within industrial automation can include: 1. Code generation, documentation, refactoring, and testing 2. Natural language interfaces 3. Automation system design and development However, it is important to consider the limitations that may be prevalent before the large language models are industrialised. 1. Code generation, documentation, refactoring, and testing Large language models can be used to generate code for control systems such as PLCs or to generate HMI screen using natural language inputs. This reduces the time and effort required to develop control applications. Furthermore, large language models have the potential to improve the quality of generated code, leading to fewer errors and faster commissioning times. Another application can be the automatic generation of recipe code which would save time when changing parameters, suppliers, or ingredients. The time to create the recipe often impacts production time so any saving that could made here would increase efficiency. Large language models can also automatically generate documentation associated with the code – like automatic test scripts which has always been time-consuming for the operator. Schneider Electric has been testing the use of private access versions of large language How large language models can boost industrial automation ChatGPT demonstrates the potential impact that large language models could have on the way people interact with machines. According to Boston Consulting Group, generative AI will surely bring about a boost in productivity from people and machines working together; and there is no place where people and machines interact more than in industrial automation segments. Aurelien Le Sant, Chief Technology Officer, Industrial Automation, Schneider Electric explains further.
RkJQdWJsaXNoZXIy MjQ0NzM=