How Generative AI Helped Me Imagine a Better Robot: It Didn't Give Me Schematics, But It Did Boost My Creativity

This year, 2023, will probably be remembered as the year of generative AI. It is still an open question whether generative AI will change our lives for the better. One thing is certain, though: New artificial-intelligence tools are being unveiled rapidly and will continue for some time to come. And engineers have much to gain from experimenting with them and incorporating them into their design process. • That's already happening in certain spheres. For Aston Martin's DBR22 concept car, designers relied on AI that's integrated into Divergent Technologies' digital 3D software to optimize the shape and layout of the rear subframe components. The rear subframe has an organic, skeletal look, enabled by the AI exploration of forms. The actual components were produced through additive manufacturing. Aston Martin says that this method substantially reduced the weight of the components while maintaining their rigidity. The company plans to use this same design and manufacturing process in upcoming low-volume vehicle models. • Other examples of AI-aided design can be found in NASA's space hardware, including planetary instruments, space telescopes, and the Mars Sample Return mission. NASA engineer Ryan McClelland says that the new AI-generated designs may “look somewhat alien and weird,” but they tolerate higher structural loads while weighing less than conventional components do. Also, they take a fraction of the time to design compared to traditional components. McClelland calls these new designs “evolved structures.” The phrase refers to how the AI software iterates through design mutations and converges on high-performing designs.