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Associations
BENEFICIAL INTELLIGENCE To understand the future of the HVAC & R sector , we must consider the changing landscape and evolving roles of engineers . As AI becomes an integral part of our work , we need to redefine our approach to engineering . This shift demands a focus on beneficial intelligence , guiding us toward actions that benefit humanity and promote ethical practices .
In navigating this transformative era , it is crucial to embrace core values that uphold the well-being of our industry and society . First and foremost , the principle of ‘ do no harm ’ should guide our decisions . By exercising caution and awareness , we can minimise the unintentional negative impacts of AI and technology .
Blue Dot , a Canadian company , demonstrated the early capabilities of AI during the onset of the Covid-19 pandemic . Their AI program accurately predicted the spread and severity of the disease , but unfortunately , its insights were not heeded . This serves as a reminder that AI can be a powerful tool for anticipating and mitigating risks , but only if we pay attention and act upon its recommendations .
AI ' s potential benefits and risks have been portrayed in popular culture , from the helpful HAL in ‘ 2001 : A Space Odyssey ’ to the destructive Skynet in the Terminator series . While these fictional examples highlight extreme scenarios , they raise valid concerns about the unintended consequences of unchecked AI development .
Just as autonomous cars will transform transportation , AI integration in engineering will reshape the HVAC & R sector . This evolution necessitates redefining our understanding of engineering and embracing new ways of working in collaboration with AI systems . Beneficial intelligence , focusing on what we should do rather than what we can do , will be a guiding principle in leveraging AI to improve building design and construction processes .
Design for Manufacture and Assembly ( DfMA ) approaches will become prevalent , enabling modular construction in factory settings . By manufacturing and assembling building components off-site , projects can be executed more effectively , efficiently , and safely . Building Information Modelling ( BIM ) technology will play a vital role in ensuring accurate module construction , facilitating seamless integration at the jobsite .
INTELLIGENT BUILDINGS AND SUSTAINABLE SOLUTIONS The rise of AI will pave the way for intelligent buildings capable of self-designing , self-redesigning , self-diagnosing , and even selfhealing . AI-driven systems will optimise energy usage , enhance occupant comfort , and adapt to changing environmental conditions . These intelligent buildings will enable us to address critical issues such as climate change and greenhouse gas emissions , playing a crucial role in the global effort to stabilise our planet ' s climate .
Reflecting on the lessons learned from past experiences with unintended consequences , such as asbestos and chlorofluorocarbons ( CFCs ), we must exercise caution and responsibility in deploying emerging technologies . RACA
Continued in part two …
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RACA Journal I November 2023 www . refrigerationandaircon . co . za