The “@factory” project is building a research and development platform for physical AI, using a factory as an example. Specifically, using NVIDIA Omniverse/Isaac, we are creating a virtual factory where AI robots can work. These robots can be controlled externally via ROS communication.

This makes it possible to build a physical AI based system for controlling AI robots working in factories, without using an actual factory. This environment allows us to clarify the functions that physical AI should achieve and the evaluation criteria, creating an extremely effective foundation for investigating physical AI.

Conversely, it also makes it possible to specifically visualize what AI robots will look like in a factory, allowing us to properly evaluate how they will be used and their effectiveness. It also makes it possible to develop robot control software in a virtual environment without using an actual factory. This will be an important tool for utilizing AI robots in the manufacturing industry in the future.

So far, we have visited some actual factories and built a virtual factory that closely resembles one in operation. We have also created a model of a CNC lathe that can actually load parts. We plan to soon release it in USD format on GitHub.

In the future, we will also continue to develop robots that will work in this virtual factory and their control mechanisms. For example, we will use autonomous dual-arm robots to build a factory that can operate fully automatically, from the receipt of parts to the shipment of products.

We are also considering inviting other researchers and developers to take part in this project, turning it into a physical AI development competition!