Artificial intelligence (AI) and edge computing are coming together to re-engineer industries and consumer experiences by enabling data processing in real time, and in turn, allowing informed decisions to be made quickly and efficiently.
Combining the two technologies reduces latency, improves data security, and makes AI apps run faster in a range of applications. Edge AI is now producing data—from the smart home to factory automation—which means faster and smarter responses. In this week’s New Tech Tuesdays, we look at new solutions emerging from edge AI applications and highlight some use cases in various sectors.
Edge computing stores data close to the point of origin, avoiding the overheads that come with the cloud. For instance, in manufacturing, AI-based edge devices can flag a production line problem at the moment it occurs and correct it. Automated vehicles are also enabled by edge AI to analyze sensor information on the fly and react quickly to changing driving conditions (Figure 1). This is also the technology smart cameras use in consumer devices to provide instant adjustments and better performance.
Figure 1: Autonomous vehicles utilize edge AI to process real-time sensor data for immediate decision-making. (Source: stockdevil/stock.adobe.com; generated with AI)
When processing data locally, edge AI enhances security by reducing the need to transmit sensitive information to centralized servers, minimizing exposure to potential cyber threats. In healthcare, edge AI enables on-site analysis of patient data, ensuring compliance with privacy regulations. Also, local data processing will decrease bandwidth usage because only essential information is transmitted. These benefits make edge AI critical for applications that handle high volumes of sensitive data, such as financial systems or surveillance networks.
Advancements in hardware, like specialized chips and faster networks, will further enhance edge AI. These new hardware and data speeds lead to more innovative solutions in smart cities, industrial automation, and personal devices. As AI models become more energy-efficient and scalable, edge computing’s ability to reshape industries will only expand.
There are many advancements driving the potential of edge AI. Multi-modal sensors that combine visual, thermal, and acoustic data create situational awareness in cases like autonomous drones that navigate environments by processing various inputs in real time. Neuromorphic chips designed to mimic the brain’s neural pathways optimize energy consumption and maintain high processing speeds, which makes them great for edge AI applications in wearables and Internet of Things (IoT) sensors. And even though quantum computing is still in its early phases of development, it’s touted as being able to change the edge AI game by taking on complex decision-making tasks like real-time supply chain optimization or data processing in autonomous systems’ multitude of sensors.
This week’s New Tech Tuesdays features computing technology from Advantech with the power to transform IoT devices and industrial automation. The SOM-7533 COM Express® Mini Type 10 Modules offer several benefits for developers of edge AI systems and products. Equipped with Intel® Core™ i3, N-series, and Atom® x7000 Series processors, these modules provide robust processing power essential for handling complex AI algorithms and real-time data processing. These modules support up to 16GB of single-channel LPDDR5 4800MT/s memory and optional onboard eMMC storage, helping to ensure smooth and efficient operation, even with large datasets. The COM Express Mini Type 10 form factor ensures that these modules can be easily integrated into a wide range of devices and systems, making them suitable for diverse edge AI applications such as industrial automation, smart retail, and medical equipment.
Combining AI with edge computing will drive real-time decisions in intelligent, autonomous machines. By decreasing latency and increasing data security, this partnership between AI and edge computing can be the engine of the next wave of innovation in the connected world.
Mouser Electronics, founded in 1964, is a globally authorized distributor of semiconductors and electronic components for over 1,200 industry-leading manufacturer brands. This year marks the company's 60th anniversary. We specialize in the rapid introduction of the newest products and technologies targeting the design engineer and buyer communities. Mouser has 28 offices located around the globe. We conduct business in 23 different languages and 34 currencies. Our global distribution center is equipped with state-of-the-art wireless warehouse management systems that enable us to process orders 24/7, and deliver nearly perfect pick-and-ship operations.