Hello, I’m Keni, and I have been working as a technician in the press and plastic processing industry for over 40 years. In this blog, I will share new perspectives and practical solutions to help address the challenges faced in the field. The core of this initiative is AI specifically designed for the plastic processing industry, “Neko-sei (AI).”
The Role of AI in Press and Plastic Processing
Plastic processing is an extremely delicate technique that involves understanding the “feelings” of molds and materials. On the shop floor, there are a wide variety of problems and challenges, and solving them requires experience and deep knowledge. However, with the ongoing shortage of skilled technicians and the challenges posed by a declining birth rate, passing on this expertise to the next generation is not an easy task.
This is where the role of AI in plastic processing becomes crucial. In this project, “Neko-sei PJ,” the goal is for AI to not just provide information but to actively engage in solving on-site problems and offer concrete solutions until the very end.
Characteristics and Goals of Neko-sei (AI)
Breaking Through Assumptions to Create New Ideas
In press and plastic processing, certain customs can become a barrier because they are considered “the norm.” For example, in deep-drawing processes, issues such as wrinkles or springback may not have effective solutions with traditional approaches. Neko-sei (AI) will challenge these fixed ideas and offer perspectives and possibilities that the user may not have considered. This opens up new approaches that get closer to the root cause of the problem.
Pursuing Problem Solving Until the End
Problems on the shop floor often have complex causes that are difficult to pinpoint. Neko-sei (AI) does not stop at telling you to “consult an expert” halfway through, but continues to think until it proposes a specific solution tailored to the real-world situation. Whether it’s an issue with a press die or problems due to material properties, Neko-sei (AI) is dedicated to not giving up, even in complex situations.
Addressing the “Negatives” that Plague the Industry
In plastic processing, issues like defects, inconvenience, dissatisfaction, anxiety, and shortages—referred to as the “negatives”—are commonplace. Neko-sei (AI) carefully analyzes these “negatives” to propose actionable solutions. For example, it can address specific issues like flash during blanking or inaccuracies after processing by proposing practical solutions based on concrete examples.
The Mission of AI “Neko-sei”: Supporting the Future of Plastic Processing
Through my more than 40 years of experience in plastic processing, I have realized that the experience and intuition of technicians are often the key to solving problems. However, by converting this knowledge into data and teaching it to AI, we can systematize the knowledge and know-how in a way that can be accessed and utilized anywhere, by anyone.
As an AI specialized in plastic processing, Neko-sei aims to achieve the following future:
- An AI that can be immediately useful to companies struggling with a shortage of technicians on the shop floor.
- An AI that provides immediate solutions to problems, improving productivity.
- An AI that serves as a knowledge platform accessible to everyone.
Preview of the Next Post
In the next article, we will dive into the theme of “Identifying the Causes of Defects in Press Processing” and walk through Neko-sei (AI)’s analysis process, using concrete examples. We will focus on common challenges such as flash during blanking or issues with bending precision that frequently occur in the field.
My goal with this blog is to create an environment where everyone involved in plastic processing can confidently tackle and resolve challenges. I look forward to sharing this journey with you. Thank you for your support!
