Emerson and SiMa.ai bring on-device AI processing to industrial edge computers

Emerson and SiMa.ai bring AI processing to factory floors

Emerson has partnered with SiMa.ai to embed artificial intelligence directly into industrial PCs, allowing manufacturers and operations teams to process data and make decisions on-site rather than relying on cloud systems or remote servers.

The collaboration integrates SiMa.ai's Machine Learning System on Chip (MLSoC) into Emerson's industrial computers. These devices already operate in harsh conditions-vibration, shock, temperatures from -40°C to 70°C-across manufacturing, energy, packaging and oil and gas operations.

Why this matters for operations

Real-time processing at the edge eliminates delays from data transmission. Operations teams can detect equipment faults, gas leaks or fires instantly and adjust processes immediately, rather than waiting for analysis elsewhere.

The approach also keeps sensitive operational data on-site, addressing security concerns in air-gapped environments used in energy, water and nuclear infrastructure.

Specific applications include inline product inspection with immediate adjustments, predictive maintenance to catch equipment failures before they occur, and optimisation of energy and material usage.

Market context

The global industrial AI market reached $43.6 billion in 2024 and is expected to grow as organisations adopt edge-based systems. This shift reflects a broader move toward decentralised processing, where intelligence sits closer to operations rather than in centralised data centres.

Ram Krishnan, Chief Operating Officer at Emerson, said: "The ability to deploy intelligent capabilities at the edge with industrial-grade reliability and security is essential" as organisations move toward autonomous operations.

Learn more about AI for Operations or explore the AI Learning Path for Operations Managers to understand how these systems fit into broader operational strategy.