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

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.