Rockwell Automation Unveils Generative AI for Industrial Edge Intelligence in Partnership with NVIDIA
Rockwell Automation’s Revolutionary Leap in Industrial Intelligence
Rockwell Automation, Inc. (NYSE: ROK), a global frontrunner in industrial automation and digital transformation, has made a significant stride in leveraging generative AI for industrial applications. Partnering with NVIDIA, Rockwell Automation aims to deliver advanced real-time intelligence directly to the industrial edge. This collaboration introduces the integration of NVIDIA’s Nemotron Nano, a specifically designed small language model optimized for use within Rockwell’s FactoryTalk® Design Studio and other product workflows. This move promises to revolutionize the way industrial teams obtain insights and control in a variety of environments.
The Significance of Edge-Based AI
In today's fast-paced industrial landscapes, responsiveness and control are paramount. Rockwell’s latest endeavor focuses on bringing generative AI capabilities that function in environments with limited space and power, unlike traditional data center setups. The core of this innovation, the Nemotron-Nano-9B-v2 model, utilizes state-of-the-art distillation techniques, enabling it to efficiently run in edge environments. The model pairs seamlessly with FactoryTalk Design Studio, enhancing design, development, production, and maintenance workflows.
Tony Carrara, the FactoryTalk Design Studio business manager at Rockwell Automation, emphasized the dual importance of reliability and security in industrial automation. “AI that operates effectively at the edge can substantially improve workflows without sacrificing control or predictability,” he stated. The new model, well-suited for offline operations and secure environments, is geared to meet the rigorous standards expected in industrial applications.
Real-World Applications and Capabilities
The integration of the NVIDIA Nemotron Nano signifies critical advancements in reasoning and operational efficiency. Initial evaluations reveal that this model exhibits impressive performance breakthroughs in parallel processing and reasoning, setting it apart in the small language model arena. These attributes make it particularly advantageous for industrial settings where immediate decision-making and data security are essential.
Joey Conway, senior director of generative AI software for enterprises at NVIDIA, highlighted the model's real-time intelligence offerings, which align perfectly with the demands of industrial professionals. Featuring capabilities that extend AI from conventional data centers to the very heart of industrial operations, the Nemotron Nano model ensures that enterprises can deploy effective AI solutions capable of operating efficiently in various conditions.
Showcasing the Future at Automation Fair 2025
The groundbreaking features of Rockwell Automation’s edge-based generative AI will be put on display at the Automation Fair 2025, scheduled for November 17-20 in Chicago. This event provides an excellent platform for Rockwell to illustrate how their innovative AI solutions reshape industrial operations and enhance overall productivity.
About Rockwell Automation
Rockwell Automation is at the forefront of industrial innovation, connecting human imagination with technological potential. With approximately 26,000 dedicated professionals operating across 100 countries, Rockwell continues to push the envelope on what is possible in productivity and sustainability. Their commitment to digital transformation positions them as an indispensable partner for organizations aiming to embrace the future of industrial operations.