At GH Cranes & Components, we are developing a series of innovative projects to integrate artificial intelligence into our processes and products, with the aim of improving efficiency, safety and competitiveness. Below we describe the six main projects we are currently working on.
Project 1: AUTOMATIC INVOICE MANAGEMENT
The first project focuses on automating the invoice management process using AI. This system aims to read invoices in PDF format and automatically extract the necessary data for accounting. This project will greatly benefit the administration department, which handles more than 3,000 invoices per month, by optimising processes and improving overall efficiency. Preliminary results are promising, and the challenge now is to integrate the information obtained with AI into the invoice management process to increase efficiency.
Project 2: VIRTUAL ASSISTANT FOR THE TECHNICAL SUPPORT SERVICE
The second project uses the power of generative AI to develop a virtual assistant that will support the GH operators in troubleshooting and commissioning cranes. This assistant will be able to respond to queries via voice and text, providing accurate answers based on the company’s extensive technical documentation. Although the project faces significant challenges in terms of confidentiality and information security, initial tests have shown positive results. The ultimate goal is to optimise the productivity of the maintenance team.
Project 3: PREDICTION OF QUOTATION CONVERSION
The third project uses data from the GH global CRM system to predict which quotations will be converted into orders. This predictive capability will enable the company to better plan production and adapt production resources accordingly. Although the project has taken time, it is currently in its final pase and the results indicate that AI can predict quotation conversion with high accuracy, primarily benefiting business and production managers. In addition, it has provided valuable insights into the variables that influence order conversions.
Project 4: PROGRAMMING ASSISTANCE
Although not a project in itself, it is worth highlighting the importance that generative AI is acquiring in the generation of source code for application development. Currently, tools such as ChatGPT and Copilot are proving highly beneficial for GH developers, as they allow them to access innovative ideas and speed up the software development process. These tools not only improve efficiency, but also empower the creativity of programmers, helping them solve complex problems faster and more effectively.
Project 5: OBJECT IDENTIFICATION USING COMPUTER VISION
The fifth project focuses on integrating AI into our end products. It seeks to use machine vision to identify the position of objects, such as coils, in order to improve the safety and efficiency of our automatic cranes. This project is now complete and ready to be brought to the market. In fact, it has already proven its effectiveness with one customer. This is a novel solution that very few companies in the world offer.
Project 6: PEOPLE DETECTION USING COMPUTER VISION
The sixth project aims to use machine vision to improve safety in the working areas of our cranes. The system will identify the presence of people near the cranes and issue alerts or stop the operation if necessary, preventing accidents and ensuring the safety of the operators. Although this project is in the pilot phase and has not yet been commercialised, initial results are encouraging. The next phase will involve testing in less favourable environments, such as outdoors and locations with a lot of dust.