Learn how NTT DATA’s new Ultralight Edge AI Platform accelerates IT/OT convergence by bringing powerful AI processing to the edge.

Introduction

In an era where real-time data processing and seamless integration between Information Technology (IT) and Operational Technology (OT) are paramount, NTT DATA has taken a significant leap forward. On July 18, 2024, NTT DATA unveiled its Ultralight Edge AI Platform, a groundbreaking solution designed to bridge the gap between IT and OT systems, enhancing operational efficiencies and enabling advanced AI use cases across various industries.

Breaking Down IT/OT Silos

The Ultralight Edge AI Platform addresses a longstanding challenge in the industrial sector: the fragmentation between IT and OT systems. By unifying data from diverse IoT devices, sensors, and systems into a single data plane, NTT DATA’s platform facilitates seamless on-premises processing. This integration empowers enterprises to make real-time decisions, optimize operations, and securely deploy AI applications tailored to their specific needs.

Key Features of the Ultralight Edge AI Platform

Fully Managed Edge AI Solution: Simplifies AI deployment by handling data discovery, collection, integration, and computation, reducing the complexity and cost associated with traditional AI infrastructure.
Task-Specific AI Models: Utilizes smaller, efficient machine learning models that are easier to implement and maintain, making advanced AI capabilities more accessible to industries.
Real-Time Data Processing: Enables instantaneous analytics and decision-making by processing data at the edge, minimizing latency and enhancing operational responsiveness.
Comprehensive Managed Services: Includes consulting data scientists, managed services, and global technical resources to support organizations in their AI journey.

Enhancing Operational Efficiencies

NTT DATA’s Edge AI platform is designed to meet industry-specific requirements, offering lightweight AI models that run within compact computing environments. This enables industries such as manufacturing to benefit from:

Predictive Maintenance: By analyzing data from sensors and machinery, the platform can predict equipment failures before they occur, reducing downtime and maintenance costs.
Energy Consumption Optimization: Monitors and adjusts energy usage in real-time, helping companies reduce costs and minimize their carbon footprint.
Safety and Compliance: Enhances workplace safety by monitoring operational parameters and ensuring compliance with industry standards.

Seizing Market Opportunities

The global edge computing market is rapidly expanding, with spending projected to reach $232 billion in 2024. NTT DATA is well-positioned to capture a significant share of this market through its dedicated IoT consulting and services. The company’s approach includes:

Free 30-Day Discovery and Diagnostic: Assists clients in assessing their IT and OT environments, providing a comprehensive report on assets, data streams, and potential security risks.
Auto-Discovery of Assets: Utilizes a vast library of pre-built OT interfaces to automatically identify and integrate diverse IoT devices and IT assets.
Global Expertise: Leverages a team of over 1,000 industry experts and extensive use cases to drive the adoption and implementation of its Edge AI platform.

Driving Secure AI Adoption

Security is a paramount concern in AI deployment, and NTT DATA’s Edge AI platform addresses this by offering:

Unified Device Management: Provides a centralized view and management of all connected devices, ensuring secure data aggregation and processing.
Vulnerability Patching: Monitors firmware versions and applies patches to mitigate security risks, maintaining the integrity of the AI systems.
Scalable Infrastructure: Utilizes cloud technology to ensure that the platform can scale efficiently without imposing additional resource burdens on organizations.

Future Outlook

As industries continue to embrace digital transformation, the need for robust and flexible AI solutions becomes increasingly critical. NTT DATA’s Ultralight Edge AI Platform not only meets this demand but also sets a new standard for AI integration at the edge. By enabling businesses to harness the power of AI without the complexities of traditional infrastructure, NTT DATA is paving the way for a smarter, more efficient industrial landscape.

Conclusion

NTT DATA’s innovative approach to Edge AI is a game-changer for enterprises seeking to optimize their operations and leverage AI-driven insights. By seamlessly integrating IT and OT systems, the Ultralight Edge AI Platform offers a versatile and secure solution that drives efficiency, reduces costs, and supports sustainable growth.

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