As the NHL playoffs heat up, hockey fans are about to witness a game-changing innovation on the ice. A costly problem plaguing the sport - the maintenance and upkeep of ice rinks - is set to be revolutionized by artificial intelligence. AI-powered systems are being installed in arenas across North America, promising to optimize ice conditions, reduce energy consumption, and increase the lifespan of the ice. By analyzing real-time data and making adjustments on the fly, these AI systems aim to create the perfect skating surface, giving players an edge and fans a more enjoyable experience. But can AI truly take the chill off the ice, and what does this mean for the future of the sport?

Hockey has a costly ice problem—and AI is about to take over arenas to fix it  Fast Company