Artificial Intelligence (AI) and digital technologies have become indispensable to modern manufacturing processes – also in the glass industry. Where is AI already in use and which trends are on the horizon for 2026? We have asked around in the industry.
Artificial Intelligence has already become an integral part of many glass industry outfits and applications today. Be it in real-time defect detection, automated process control or predictive maintenance – AI not only accelerates but also optimises processes.
AI systems in practice
Since September 2025 Guardian Glass has deployed the generative AI-powered assistant CLARIA™, that helps users to resolve technical questions and select matching products on the website.
Steven Scrivens, Global Head of Digital Platforms at Guardian Glass, explains: “Today’s quickly developing digital landscape changes the way customers search information and take descisions. Guardian Glass embraces this change and gives customers the opportunity to access vast amounts of data quickly and efficiently and to generate value-adding results. This is already changing the way we work and makes us more effective.”
A+W also uses an AI-driven solution for automated order processing namely A+W Order Entry and the assistant Mira. The automatic order recognition is based on OCR data detection and uses Google Gemini to extract and process information from PDF files – submitted by both upload and e-mail. A chat-based UI helps to analyse content and make adjustments. In addition, plans are underway to connect it to ERP systems via interfaces.
At Tiama AI is at the centre of quality inspection. Using MCAL 4 AI the sidewall inspection machine performs high-speed production inspections via AI. This is based on an extensive image dataset compiled from machines running globally. By Tiama’s account trillions of images were used for training the neuronal networks. The AI detects defects precisely while decreasing false rejection rates as can occur with classical inspection systems.
Outlook: when AI systems grow together
It is anticipated that 2026 will see AI solutions being even more widely used in the glass industry. The trend is moving away from isolated pilot projects to connected process chains – from order intake to production. In quality assurance the focus continues to shift towards prevention: detecting defects earlier, narrowing down causes better, adapting process parameters more quickly. At the same time, reliable data, standardised interfaces and clear responsibilities will gain in importance to make AI systems run stably and deliver understandable results in daily operation.
Examples show: AI is no longer a “pipe dream” and has become common practice. Those wanting to learn more about the latest developments, will find the right platform to do so at glasstec 2026 from 20 to 23 October in Düsseldorf. AI and Digital Technologies are two of the trade fair’s Hot Topics promising exciting insights into an industry in transition.
Sources and literature
Guardian Glass launches CLARIA™ AI-powered assistant
KI in der Flachglasindustrie – Optimierung der Auftragserfassung durch A+W Order Entry AI
