The glass industry is embracing robotics and artificial intelligence (AI) to boost precision, efficiency, and product quality. Companies like LiSEC use advanced robots equipped with vacuum suction, machine vision, and force feedback sensors to handle glass sheets carefully. These robots adjust grip and speed in real-time, reducing damage and improving throughput.
AI-driven defect detection is another game changer. Platforms such as Vernaio combine high-resolution imaging with thermal and vibration sensors to spot micro-defects invisible to the human eye. Edge AI devices analyze this data instantly on-site, allowing manufacturers to identify and sort defective glass in real time, which lowers waste and raises yields.
Predictive maintenance powered by AI helps avoid costly downtime. Industrial IoT sensors collect data from machines like tempering furnaces, feeding it into AI models that predict failures weeks ahead. Leaders such as Siemens and Rockwell Automation enable factories to schedule maintenance proactively, saving time and money.
Additionally, companies like Bucher Emhart Glass use adaptive control algorithms and infrared thermography in tempering furnaces to optimize temperature and cooling. This improves glass strength by up to 15%. 
Together, robotics and AI are revolutionizing glass manufacturing, enabling smarter, more efficient, and higher-quality production.
Source: Glass Balkan
