Automation
Emerson introduces AI-powered update to its automation platform
Emerson has unveiled its Ovation
4.0 automation platform , integrating generative AI technology to help power and water utilities transform their vast operational data into actionable insights for improved efficiency , reliability and decision-making .
By Melonie Dodaro
Emerson is taking a major step into the artificial intelligence arena with the launch of its latest Ovation™ platform . The company announced that its Ovation 4.0 automation platform will integrate generative AI technology , aimed at helping power and water utilities make better use of their operational data . The platform ’ s launch comes at a crucial time for the utility sector , which is grappling with an unprecedented volume of operational data . While power and water companies have accumulated vast amounts of information related to production , reliability , safety and sustainability , much of this valuable data remains trapped in separate systems and databases . The industry faces a growing need for modern computing solutions capable of analysing complex datasets and leveraging generative AI to derive operational insights . Emerson ’ s solution centres on the integration of dedicated generative AI deployment within the Ovation 4.0 platform . Built on a foundation of secure , knowledge-based data , the system is designed to enhance workforce expertise by automating and prioritising tasks while providing predictive guidance and action recommendations to boost reliability and optimise operations . “ While global power operators are experiencing unprecedented demands , we are also on the precipice of technological advances that will forever change how we and our customers work ,” said Bob Yeager , president of Emerson ’ s power and water business . “ The digital revolution is generating so much valuable data that our Ovation 4.0 automation platform with GenAI can harvest to create accessible , usable insights to inform smarter and more timely action .”
AI-powered features transform operations
The new platform introduces several key AI-powered capabilities . It will deploy AI assistants to work alongside operators , helping optimise workflows and diagnose issues while suggesting appropriate control actions to maintain safe operating conditions . For centralised control centres monitoring multiple assets , the AI system will serve as an autonomous guardian , providing prescriptive guidance for information processing and decision support .
Image provided by Emerson
The Ovation GenAI assistant will also focus on maintaining reliable operations by predicting maintenance requirements and addressing common reliability issues such as faulty sensors , mechanical wear , temperature fluctuations and pressure deviations . The platform incorporates real-time digital twin simulation combined with AI models trained on plant-specific historical data to identify and analyse process deviations from normal operations . Additional features include advanced grid optimisation through AI-assisted predictive maintenance , improving decision-making across power generation and delivery systems . The platform also strengthens cybersecurity measures through AI models designed to enhance threat detection , response automation , vulnerability management and overall security protocols . The platform will initially be deployed on Microsoft Azure ’ s OpenAI service , with plans to expand availability to other large language models using closed , proprietary and secure data sets . “ Today ’ s most forward-thinking power and water companies will use our new Ovation 4.0 automation platform with GenAI to help sort through their vast amounts of data ,” Yeager added . “ By contextualising data from the intelligent field , edge and cloud to make better , safer decisions , this technology will enable what we call ‘ Boundless Automation™ ’ – breaking down data silos to liberate data and unleash the power of software .” Emerson , which holds a majority stake in AspenTech , provides automation solutions for hybrid , process and discrete manufacturers , helping companies optimise operations , protect personnel , reduce emissions and achieve their sustainability goals .
36 Valve World December 2024 www . valve-world . net