Kawasaki Heavy Unveils Next-Generation AI Robot for Shipbuilding
Kawasaki Heavy Industries has unveiled a prototype next-generation shipbuilding robot that can climb vertically along ship hulls, part of an effort to use physical AI to address labor shortages and preserve skilled manufacturing techniques. (News On Japan)
Kawasaki Heavy Industries recently revealed a prototype of its next-generation shipbuilding robot that can ascend vertically along ship hulls. This development aims to tackle labor shortages and maintain skilled manufacturing practices within the industry. The company's President, Yasuhiko Hashimoto, highlighted the ongoing decline in Japanese workers employed in shipbuilding.
Moreover, the sector faces difficulties in transferring expert techniques due to the scarcity of skilled professionals. The proposed robot is intended to operate without being influenced by weather conditions and perform tasks like welding. Kawasaki Heavy Industries aims to integrate veteran workers' knowledge and techniques into physical AI systems, allowing for independent robot control.
Testing for the robot will commence at a plant in Kagawa Prefecture next fiscal year, with full-scale operations set to begin in fiscal 2028.
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