The Korea Institute of Machinery and Materials (KIMM) has achieved a groundbreaking milestone by developing the world's first artificial intelligence (AI) technology for robot work in manufacturing processes.
Led by Chang-hyun Kim, the head of the Department of AI Machinery, the research team aims to revolutionize the application of robots in various industries, including the manufacturing of automobiles and machine parts.
The newly developed AI technology is designed to facilitate the integration of robots into manufacturing processes with ease. This innovation holds the potential to enhance the working environment at manufacturing sites significantly. Currently undergoing implementation in the manufacturing processes of electronic component producers, the research team plans to gradually expand the applicability of this technology to a broader range of manufacturers.
Based on the "Large Language Model (LLM)" and a virtual environment, the AI technology enables robots to understand user commands and automatically generate and execute tasks. Using voice or text input, task sequences and movements can be generated effortlessly. The technology also incorporates pre-learning in a virtual space to identify optimal work points and minimize work processes. Additionally, it aids in automatic object detection and collision avoidance.
Traditionally, the limitations of robot tasks were tied to modifications required in the manufacturing site to accommodate the robot. This hindered the versatility of robots in performing various tasks. The integration of diverse technologies, such as movement and recognition, further complicated the development process.
The newly developed technology eliminates these challenges by allowing users to specify tasks for robots. Pre-learning in a virtual space enables robots to seamlessly perform tasks with minimal on-site modifications. Currently undergoing on-site demonstration tests, the technology is poised to effectively address various situations that may arise at manufacturing sites in the future.
“For the first time in the world, we have developed intelligence specialized in robot task by combining AI technology and robot technology and applied it to an actual manufacturing site,” said Kim Chang-hyun, head of the Department of AI Machinery of the KIMM. “The technology is currently being tested in the manufacturing process of electric vehicle (EV) parts manufacturers, and the application thereof will gradually be expanded.”
The research received support from the project for the "development of core mechanical technologies for autonomous work and manufacturing," part of KIMM’s basic projects. This support has played a crucial role in advancing the development of this groundbreaking AI technology for robot work in manufacturing.
