IT in Manufacturing


Spatial computing and AI – where no man has sustainably gone before

January 2025 IT in Manufacturing

Some will argue that we now live in a sci-fi world where we dream of electric sheep, and today’s technology – unlike HAL – can provide us with the answers we seek. To the realist it might seem a bit implausible, but when you start using terms like ‘spatial computing realises sustainable AI’ it doesn’t seem that far-fetched.

To place it in context, there’s no doubt that AI is powering a new future; however, we are also facing a tremendous challenge. How do you meet the growing energy demands of these intelligent systems while keeping its environmental impact in check? Indeed, AI’s hunger for computational power has driven a sharp increase in energy consumption, putting the quest for sustainability at odds with technological advancement. And as demand for AI services continues to grow, so does the strain on our energy resources.

Fortunately, there’s also an answer. Enter spatial computing, a technology that integrates the physical and digital worlds through augmented reality (AR), virtual reality (VR), and mixed reality (MR). Spatial computing has the potential to optimise AI systems’ energy efficiency by reshaping how it’s managed, particularly within data centres.


Johan Potgieter.

Quenching the data centre’s thirst

Today’s data centres use three-dimensional spatial mapping, which generates highly detailed models of their physical environment. This allows for the precise placement of AI hardware, optimising airflow and minimising hotspots, which in turn improves cooling efficiency. Sensors embedded within the data centres can then monitor environmental parameters like temperature and humidity, ensuring that hardware is always placed in the most energy-efficient configuration.

To take it one step further, spatial computing also supports dynamic resource allocation. By balancing electrical loads across different components and preventing overloading, the technology ensures a more even distribution of power. Furthermore, analysing spatial data helps identify underutilised hardware, enabling data centres to redistribute workloads and reduce unnecessary power consumption.

Spatial computing also allows for targeted cooling, where specific areas requiring additional cooling are identified in real time, reducing the need for energy-intensive blanket strategies. Adaptive cooling systems can also adjust automatically based on current conditions, again ensuring optimal energy use.

Open standards and sustainability

An important part of integrating spatial computing into AI infrastructure is ensuring that solutions are built on open standards such as the IEC 61499 framework championed by UniversalAutomation.org, of which Schneider Electric is a member.

This vendor-agnostic approach allows organisations to break free from proprietary constraints, fostering interoperability and sustainability. By adhering to open standards, organisations can create AI ecosystems that are not only more adaptable and efficient but also better aligned with long-term environmental goals.

Spatial computing at work

Spatial computing can also be integrated with energy management systems to control and optimise power consumption. For example, AI-enabled predictive maintenance can detect potential failures in advance, reducing downtime and preventing energy waste. Additionally, spatial computing facilitates the integration of renewable energy sources such as solar and wind power by dynamically adjusting AI workloads based on energy availability.

By using spatial intelligence, organisations can therefore reduce the energy footprint of AI, while simultaneously enhancing performance. In essence, spatial computing offers the ability to transform AI infrastructure from being energy-intensive to energy-efficient.

Spatial computing also has broad applications that contribute to sustainability across industries:

• Agriculture: Spatial computing helps optimise crop yields, while minimising environmental impact. By integrating spatial data with advanced analytics, farmers can monitor soil health, water usage and crop conditions in real time, enabling precise application of fertilisers and pesticides.

• Urban mobility: In cities, spatial computing platforms promote greener transportation methods. These systems use real-time data to offer insights into traffic patterns, air quality, and safe cycling routes, encouraging the adoption of environmentally friendly transportation options.


Credit(s)



Share this article:
Share via emailShare via LinkedInPrint this page

Further reading:

Looking into the future of machine vision
Omron Electronics IT in Manufacturing
Artificial intelligence (AI) is driving a significant transformation in all areas of industrial automation, and machine vision is no exception. Omron’s AI-powered machine vision systems seamlessly integrate state-of-the-art algorithms, enabling machines to analyse and interpret visual data meticulously.

Read more...
Driving digital transformation in the truck industry
Siemens South Africa IT in Manufacturing
Tatra Trucks, a leading truck manufacturer in Czechia, has adopted the Siemens Xcelerator portfolio of industry software including Teamcenter software for product lifecycle management and the Mendix low code platform to help increase production volume and strengthen its ability to manufacture vehicles that meet specific customer requirements.

Read more...
Opinion piece: Digital twins in manufacturing – design, optimise and expand
Schneider Electric South Africa IT in Manufacturing
Digital twin technology can help create better products, fast. It can also transform the work of product development. This strong statement from McKinsey reinforces how far digital twins have come in manufacturing.

Read more...
UPS systems are key to keeping SA’s automotive industry up and running
Schneider Electric South Africa Electrical Power & Protection
During loadshedding, PLCs and OT systems often fail, not because they are directly tied to the factory’s core manufacturing process, but because they are now an integral part of IT infrastructure. When an IT system shuts down, the impact is far more complex than simply restarting machinery.

Read more...
Asset tracking is key to driving operational excellence and sustainable growth
Schneider Electric South Africa IT in Manufacturing
Asset tracking plays a critical role in the success of industrial businesses. By effectively managing and monitoring assets, companies can optimise their operations, ensuring that resources are used efficiently. This leads to improved productivity and reduced costs.

Read more...
Siemens democratises AI-driven PCB design for small and medium electronics teams
Siemens South Africa IT in Manufacturing
Siemens Digital Industries Software is making its AI-enhanced electronic systems design technology more accessible to small and mid-sized businesses with PADS Pro Essentials software and Xpedition Standard software.

Read more...
Advanced contactor solution to revolutionise motor management
Schneider Electric South Africa Electrical Power & Protection
Schneider Electric South Africa has launched the TeSys Deca Advanced, an advanced contactor solution designed to revolutionise motor management with unparalleled efficiency, reliability, simplicity and sustainability.

Read more...
Predicting and preventing cyber-attacks with AI and generative AI
IT in Manufacturing
The speed at which cyber threats are evolving is unprecedented. As a result, companies need to implement state-of-the-art technology to protect their data and systems.

Read more...
Real-world lessons in digital transformation
IT in Manufacturing
Synthesis has helped businesses across multiple industries with their digital transformation by solving their unique integration challenges.

Read more...
Enhancing cyber security for industrial drives
Siemens South Africa IT in Manufacturing
The growing connection between production networks and office networks as part of IT/OT integration and the utilisation of IoT have many benefits for industrial companies. At the same time, they also increase the risk of cyber threats. Siemens ensures that your know-how and plants are protected at all times.

Read more...