Skoda Auto adopts predictive maintenance through AI-based image recognition

Škoda Auto: “Magic Eye” camera system
Škoda Auto is using AI-based image recognition to ensure timely identification of maintenance needs on the assembly line. At the main plant in Mladá Boleslav, the Škoda FabLab has installed a system that continuously monitors the assembly line equipment. It is connected to a computer that uses Artificial Intelligence (AI) to detect irregularities in the processes and identify any required maintenance work.

(IN BRIEF) Skoda Auto has implemented an AI-based image recognition system called “Magic Eye” to monitor its assembly line equipment and identify any irregularities that may require maintenance work. The system uses cameras mounted on the overhead conveyor of the assembly line to capture images of parts that are subject to wear, and a computer equipped with AI analyzes the images in real-time to detect deviations from the optimal baseline conditions and identify sources of errors. Skoda Auto is using “Magic Eye” at its main plant in Mladá Boleslav to monitor the assembly line for the Enyaq iV and Octavia models.

(PRESS RELEASE) MLADÁ BOLESLAV, 22-Feb-2023 — /EuropaWire/ — ŠKODA AUTO, one of the world’s oldest car makers and Czech Republic largest private company part of Volkswagen Group, has announced the implementation of an AI-based predictive maintenance system for its assembly line at the main plant in Mladá Boleslav. The Škoda FabLab has installed a system that utilizes image recognition to monitor assembly line equipment for any irregularities and maintenance needs.

By capturing images of equipment and parts subject to wear, such as girders, bolts, or cabling, through cameras installed on the overhead conveyor of the assembly line, the AI-based computer can detect any irregularities in the process and identify required maintenance actions in real time.

Named “Magic Eye,” the system instantly compares its high-precision photographs against thousands of stored images, enabling it to detect departures from optimal baseline conditions and identify sources of error. The use of blue light ensures the tool’s reliable differentiation between cracks and scratches and making correct diagnoses.

“At Škoda Auto we are committed to predictive maintenance as a means to ensure that our production equipment is always in perfect shape. An AI system constantly checks the current process status against the optimal baseline conditions. It’s taught to identify certain patterns, constantly adding to its knowledge base and recognising changes immediately. This enables us to react promptly, optimises the efficiency of our processes and ensures the best possible utilisation of our production capacities,” comments Miroslav Stejskal, Predictive Maintenance Coordinator, Škoda Auto Central Technical Service.

Škoda Auto is using “Magic Eye” at its main plant in Mladá Boleslav, on the assembly line for the Enyaq iV and Octavia models, making it one of the first companies in the Czech Republic to use AI-supported predictive maintenance.

To accelerate wider integration at the Mladá Boleslav and Kvasiny sites, the FabLab has simulated a section of the assembly line. This “implementation arena” can be used to experiment with different camera settings, configure system parameters, and simulate damage to the assembly line.

The implementation of “Magic Eye” demonstrates Škoda Auto’s commitment to innovation and technological advancements in manufacturing to ensure efficient and timely maintenance of its assembly line.

Media contact:

Ariane Kilian
Head of Communications
e: ariane.kilian@skoda-auto.cz
t: +420 326 811 778

SOURCE: Škoda Auto a.s.