Skoda Uses AI-based ‘Magic Eye’ Camera To Identify Maintenance Needs

The images of equipment and parts subject to wear, such as girders, bolts or cabling, are captured by cameras on the overhead conveyor of the assembly line.

Skoda is using AI-based image recognition to ensure timely identification of maintenance needs on the assembly line. At the main plant in Mladá Boleslav, Skoda has installed a system that continuously monitors assembly line equipment and uses Artificial Intelligence (AI) to detect irregularities in the processes and identify any required maintenance work.

The images of equipment and parts subject to wear, such as girders, bolts or cabling, are captured by cameras on the overhead conveyor of the assembly line. As soon as the AI-based system – connected to the camera – detects irregularities in the process, or a need for maintenance actions, it flags them in real time.

Magic Eye instantly compares its high-precision photographs against thousands of stored images. This enables it to detect departures from the optimal baseline conditions and to identify sources of error. The use of blue light ensures that the AI tool reliably differentiates between cracks and scratches and makes the correct diagnoses. In addition, the system continuously expands its knowledge base. If it finds a worn bolt, for example, it marks the spot as error-free as soon as the part has been replaced and checked again. To evaluate detected deviations, the system uses information on irregularities it has identified in the past.