The Challenge
Nuclear control has always focused on predictable behavior and human oversight to prevent failures in high-stakes situations. These systems are highly reliable — but they were not designed to handle modern computational tasks such as advanced analytics or AI.
With global energy demand rising, Small Modular Reactors (SMRs) are becoming an attractive, flexible option for nuclear power. As AI begins to be used to improve operations, a crucial question arises at Texas A&M University: can AI be integrated into nuclear control systems in a way that enhances performance without compromising safety, reliability, and trust?
The challenge was building a control system capable of real-time, AI-assisted operation in a physical nuclear facility — a level of capability traditional nuclear control systems were never built for.
The Solution
To address this, Texas A&M implemented the COPA 500 open control platform and deployed ASRock Industrial's iEP-5000G / iEP-7000E Series as Distributed Control Nodes (DCN) responsible for the AI-assisted nuclear control architecture.
By using the proven automation components in the COPA 500 ecosystem, Texas A&M was able to blend traditional industrial reliability with modern computing flexibility. This combination made it possible to safely monitor systems remotely, keep close watch on data, and tightly align AI predictions with actual control actions.
The Architecture
Acting as the deterministic processing layer of the system, the platform continuously collects sensor data, evaluates operating conditions, and executes validated control logic with predictable timing precision.
Within this framework, AI models function as predictive assistants — they analyze reactor behavior and recommend adjustments, while the edge controller ensures all commands remain within predefined safety boundaries before being applied to physical systems.
The Outcome
This architecture enables advanced intelligence to be introduced into reactor environments without compromising reliability. It allows secure, real-time monitoring and control while preserving the stringent operational discipline required in nuclear engineering — demonstrating that open process automation can carry AI-assisted capability into even the most safety-critical domains.
CSI works with operators and institutions introducing open, standards-based control architectures into demanding environments. To discuss an engagement, get in touch.