ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE IN MECHANICAL ENGINEERING: APPLICATIONS, CHALLENGES, AND FUTURE PERSPECTIVES

Abstract

Abstract: Artificial Intelligence (AI) has become one of the most transformative forces in modern engineering, profoundly reshaping the principles, tools, and processes of mechanical engineering. This research explores how AI-driven algorithms, machine learning, and predictive analytics are revolutionizing the design, manufacturing, and maintenance of mechanical systems. The study identifies the key domains where AI has been successfully implemented — such as smart manufacturing, robotics, material optimization, and system diagnostics — while also discussing ethical challenges, data dependency, and integration limitations. A mixed-method approach combining case studies and theoretical analysis is employed to examine the tangible impact of AI technologies in industrial contexts. The paper concludes by outlining future directions for AI-driven mechanical systems, emphasizing the need for human-centered and sustainable innovation.