How EPC Firms can use Generative AI to their advantage

Generative AI tools are a trend in technology that has mostly been focused on creative industries like art, animation, and marketing. However, that's not all it's limited to. For engineering firms, generative AI is a tool that will impact the design and maintenance of any facility. Unlike in some industries, where the fear is generative AI will replace people, generative AI in the engineering world will be an enhancement of the entire design process. Here are some of the ways it's going to shift the entire industry.

Optimize Layout and Space

When implemented properly, Generative AI will be an incredible complement to designers. Imagine a system that will find the most effective way to lay out your entire design. With much of the industry working with standards (fire codes, safety regulations, etc.) the system can be trained to consider this when creating a new layout. However, even though it may look the most efficient, it may not be the most feasible. That's why it complements the current designer, as her experience will ultimately decide how to finish the design. The only difference would be how fast she gets to that decision.

Perform Analyses and Material Selection

Generative systems can run through possibilities faster than people. So, when it comes to analysis, they can test multiple scenarios in structural integrity or other analyses. It will be up to engineers to validate these systems and ensure their quality. However, it also enables them to explore various options in design faster. This will help engineers to quickly find the best balance between strength, cost and sustainability.

Energy Efficiency and Sustainability

Optimizing a facility's design isn't for the layout alone. Cost reduction will also be found in a facility's energy usage. Engineers can test new configurations to find the most effective energy solution for a factory or plant, by analyzing things like lighting, HVAC systems, and insulation. With their expertise, they can find the best method that balances efficiency and effectiveness. This means a more sustainable solution energy-wise and for the people involved in its day-to-day operation.

Automated Equipment Placement and Routing

Creating a great work environment is pivotal for Industry 5.0. Part of that is placing equipment and machinery the right way. By placing parameterized equipment (like in IDS), engineers can find the best way to configure layouts for workers and things like pipes or conveyor belts. Auto-routing will pick the shortest distance between equipment, however, it will take the engineer's expertise to find the right configuration.

Rapid Prototyping and Iteration

Altogether, this leads to quicker prototyping and iteration times. If an engineer can create and test layouts from the ground up quicker, they will have the time to test more configurations and find the best one. Design time currently is limited, and without smart tools, engineers find the best solution within the time they have. With generative AI tools, they will be able to do their job quicker and have the time to better optimize designs.

How Firms Gain an Advantage

EPC firms have a major opportunity to get ahead of their competition if they adopt generative AI principles in their design process. Regardless of the engineering discipline, generative AI boosts speed for all designers. This increases the margins for owners and enables engineers to test and design models at an immense scale. Overall these efficiencies help not only the firm but the client as well. Bringing better designs quicker trickles down the entire process, meaning a facility that's either on schedule or early. Firms looking to activate this competitive advantage should look for tools that enable this process today.

Our Integrated Design Suite enables engineers to rapidly prototype using parameterized models, auto-routing, and generative systems. These tools of tomorrow can speed up processes by over 30% today by creating fast layouts and iterating at scale. If you're interested in learning about how we can help you reclaim your valuable time, head to our website and book a demo with our team today!

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