Executive Summary:
Integrating novel technology can often feel like taking a plunge into cold water, especially when expert advice is scarce, like with very new technologies. However, in a world where innovation drives competition, remaining stagnant is not an option. Video-based artificial intelligence provides invaluable support in environments where each additional human increases the risk of contamination.
Hosting a workshop to evaluate potential projects can educate your team and introduce optimization ideas. A small pilot project can demonstrate the benefits at a low cost and no risk, paving the way for significant advancements.
They say the devil is in the details, and nowhere is this more true than in biopharmaceutical manufacturing. A single missed step or minor deviation can lead to significant consequences. Imagine if we could put extra sets of eyes on the production floor, ones that never tire, miss a beat, or forget a protocol. Enter video-based AI error recognition technology, the unsung hero ready to transform GMP-regulated production.
But how does a typical video AI project start, and how is a pilot project chosen to set the stage for broader implementation?
The Uncertainty Surrounding Video-Based AI
Video-based AI uses advanced algorithms to analyze visual data in real time, spotting irregularities that human operators might miss and allowing them to act accordingly. However, the newness of this technology can cause uncertainty about its effectiveness, integration, and compliance with regulations. DeepEyes can address any questions, including those about operator privacy. Rest assured, this technology is not invasive; individuals are never recognizable in video streams. Instead, it focuses on detecting activities and alerting when unwanted actions could affect production, endanger the health of individuals or the environment and incur significant costs.
Identifying the Need for Video-Based AI - The Business Case
Recognizing the need for video AI starts with analyzing the production process, particularly where human error is likely and deviations from GMP standards could have severe consequences. Key challenges include:
- Production Irregularities: Small deviations can significantly affect product quality and safety.
- Human Variability: Human involvement introduces variability, increasing error risks.
- Compliance Risks: Not meeting safety and hygiene standards can lead to costly production losses and logistical issues.
The Role of Workshops in Project Initiation
To explore video-based AI’s potential, companies often hold tailored workshops involving:
- Onsite Facility Tours: Experts identify where errors and malfunctions might occur.
- Factor Analysis: Prioritizing areas for optimization.
- Technology Introduction: Learning about video AI capabilities for quality assurance.
- Q&A Sessions: Discussing regulatory requirements, deployment scenarios, data security, and privacy.
These workshops are for heads of production, MSAT engineers, sterility, GMP or EHS managers, and typically, IT and data security officers. They provide an informative introduction to the technology and answer questions.
Choosing a Pilot Project
Selecting a pilot project is crucial for showing the technology’s value. This process typically involves:
- Identifying Sensitive Areas: Facility tours and analysis pinpoint critical areas for AI intervention, such as leak detection in bioreactors and safety risks.
- Prioritizing Optimization Steps: Evaluating the potential impact of video AI in different areas to prioritize high-return projects.
- Assessing Feasibility and Benefits: Workshops conclude with a document assessing the business benefits of specific AI solutions, guiding management decisions.
The Path Forward
Implementing video-based AI in biopharmaceutical manufacturing moves operations from uncertainty to optimization. By identifying key areas of need, engaging in workshops, and selecting strategic pilot projects, companies can use AI to transform their production processes, improve GMP compliance, and enhance overall efficiency. A successful pilot project paves the way for broader implementation, driving innovation and setting new standards for quality and safety in the industry.
