VTT Joins MPD Q&A&I Podcast

In the latest episode of the MPD Q&A&I podcast, Riikka Virkkunen, Professor of Practice at VTT Technical Research Centre of Finland, shares insights into how research-driven innovation is accelerating AI adoption in manufacturing.

"AI is really making a big difference in many of the so-called digital processes in manufacturing. You have the possibility to analyse what you're doing, support your work personnel with information that was not available before, and you can have foresight thinking," Virkkunen says.

However, as Virkkunen highlights, there is a need to go beyond quality improvements and even beyond areas connected to product development and market insights. Fully understanding AI’s impact requires a holistic approach.

"You have to think about not only like bringing some tools into specific places, but really think about how you could change maybe your work practices, your operations, maybe even organizational management, skills, so that you could benefit from it in the best ways," she says.

AI as a Catalyst for Sustainable Innovation

VTT’s approach to AI in manufacturing goes beyond productivity gains. Virkkunen emphasizes AI’s role in improving sustainability, from predictive quality systems that reduce material waste to developing more durable materials that can replace critical raw resources.

For example, an AI-based predictive quality system saved approximately 700 truckloads of material in a project with a major forest company.
In another case, AI supported production managers in workflow optimization, improving not only scheduling but also worker satisfaction.
In the materials sector, combining AI and virtual modeling has led to developing steels with four times longer lifetimes.

Creating Human-Centered and Resilient Systems

A key theme in the episode is the human side of innovation.
Whether it's enabling production managers to optimize workflows through AI-supported tools or designing systems that account for worker preferences, VTT stresses that innovation must remain human-centered.

VTT also highlights the importance of increasing resilience in manufacturing by developing alternative materials to replace critical raw elements like lithium.

Accelerating industrial AI innovation demands close collaboration between researchers and companies.

Virkkunen points out that Finland’s strength lies in its strong research-industry partnerships, but maintaining global competitiveness requires sustained investment, both financially and intellectually.

About the Podcast

The MPD Q, A & I podcast series, part of the Manufacturing Performance Days, dives deep into the role of AI in creating new digital business models, advancing technologies, and leading sustainable transformation. Through candid conversations with leading professionals at the forefront of AI transformation, the series offers listeners first-hand insights into the future of AI-powered manufacturing.

Find the full episode on

Spotify

https://open.spotify.com/episode/3OoNuU1o8FVsATmSk3w785?si=9eafe3fea99845e9

Apple Podcasts

https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/mpd-q-a-i-accelerating-innovation-with-ai-by-vtt/id1810859680?i=1000705173341