Rethinking On-Device AI: Challenges and Realities for Automotive and Robotics Workflows
Introduction to On-Device AI in Automation Large language models (LLMs) and vision-language models (VLMs) are increasingly considered for use beyond traditional data centers. In automotive and robotics sectors, there is growing interest in running AI agents directly on vehicles or robots. This approach promises benefits such as lower latency, increased reliability, and the ability to function without constant cloud connectivity. However, deploying these sophisticated AI systems on edge devices presents several challenges that affect automation and workflow efficiency. Popular Assumptions about Edge AI in Vehicles and Robots Many developers believe that embedding conversational AI and multimodal perception directly on vehicles or robots will seamlessly enhance automation workflows. The assumption is that local processing eliminates delays and dependence on networks, enabling real-time decision-making and improved autonomy. While this is an appealing vision, it overlooks key t...