THE ROLE OF ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE IN MODERN ENGINEERING AND INDUSTRIAL AUTOMATION

Artificial intelligence has become one of the most influential technologies in modern engineering and industrial automation. Its integration into manufacturing systems, robotics, predictive maintenance, quality control, process optimization, and autonomous decision-making has significantly transformed industrial production. The aim of this study was to analyze the role of artificial intelligence in contemporary engineering and evaluate its contribution to automation, efficiency, reliability, and technological development. A literature-based analytical approach was used to examine the applications of machine learning, computer vision, intelligent control systems, digital twins, industrial robotics, and predictive analytics. The analysis shows that artificial intelligence can improve production accuracy, reduce equipment downtime, optimize energy consumption, support real-time decision-making, and enhance product quality. AI-based systems can also process large volumes of industrial data and identify patterns that are difficult to detect through conventional methods. However, successful implementation requires high-quality data, reliable infrastructure, cybersecurity, skilled personnel, and appropriate integration with existing engineering systems. Artificial intelligence should therefore be considered not only as a software technology but also as an important component of intelligent industrial engineering.