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AMT Tech Report: Issue #301

"Vanguard of Automation". Schneider Invests in US Manufacturing. The Simple Part of LLMs. Brush Off Those Sperrys. 3D Fabric Weaving.
Mar 29, 2024

“Robots aren’t here to steal jobs – they’re going to make them better.”

Sara Senatore, Senior Research Analyst, Bank of America


1. “Vanguard of Automation”

Sara Senatore, quoted above, argues that restaurant robots enhance job productivity and satisfaction rather than replace workers. As exemplified by vegan restaurant Kernel's use of robots alongside staff, automation fosters a positive work environment and reduces turnover. While robots boost efficiency and profits, they augment, not replace, human interaction. Can confirm! I much prefer ordering food from my phone. This frees up staff to bring orders to the table or car.

Read more here.


2. Schneider Invests in US Manufacturing

Bro, look at Schneider Electric just coming in here with that big dynamic energy! First it was cobot performance and pricing transparency at MODEX 2024, and now they’re throwing down a cool $140 million to invest in our industry? Respect. Save some parts for the rest of us! This move aligns with their broader $440-million investment plan to enhance U.S. manufacturing, streamline production, and bolster the supply chain.

Read more here.


3. The Simple Part of LLMs

Large language models (LLMs) use simple linear functions to retrieve stored knowledge. Linear functions decode relational information. This method, identified through experiments, aids in understanding how models recall and process facts. By visualizing "attribute lenses," LLM researchers can pinpoint where specific information is stored within a model, potentially correcting misinformation. This approach offers insight into model behavior and may enhance an AI chatbot's accuracy.

Read more here.


4. Brush Off Those Sperrys

Sailboats are back! WindWings, a 43,000-tonne cargo ship with diesel engines and automatic sails, completed a six-month trial, saving three tonnes of fuel daily. The solid sails, developed by BAR Technologies, reduce overall costs by 14% and carbon emissions by 11.2 tonnes – equal to removing 480 cars from the road! This success prompts plans for broader implementation. On a side note, Sperrys are not back in style. They never were. Along with popped collar polos, they just complete the “my dad’s a lawyer” look.

Read more here.


5. 3D Fabric Weaving

Textiles aren’t exactly in the wheelhouse of AMT and our members, but on-shoring is! Walmart and unspun are partnering to utilize 3D fabric-weaving technology to cut garment production waste and promote U.S.-based manufacturing. This innovative approach directly addresses environmental concerns by transforming yarn into garments more efficiently. The pilot project explores creating workwear pants under Walmart's brand, potentially revolutionizing garment manufacturing.

Read more here.

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Author
Stephen LaMarca
Technology Analyst
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