Prox Industries Welcomes Prof. Yutaka Matsuo as Technology Advisor for AI Advancement in Manufacturing

Prox Industries Welcomes Professor Yutaka Matsuo as Technology Advisor

Prox Industries, headquartered in Bunkyo, Tokyo, is thrilled to announce that Professor Yutaka Matsuo from the Graduate School of Engineering at the University of Tokyo has officially taken on the role of technology advisor. This appointment is not just a milestone for Prox Industries, which champions the mission of making "Japan No.1 in Manufacturing," but also a significant step towards advancing research and development in the AI and robotics sector within the Japanese manufacturing industry.

Prox Industries positions itself as a specialized vendor focused on AI and robotics, leveraging the robust research capabilities cultivated at the University of Tokyo. The company provides cutting-edge solutions to major manufacturers in various sectors, including automotive, aerospace, precision instruments, and chemicals, utilizing state-of-the-art technologies such as image recognition, predictive maintenance, mathematical optimization, and Physical AI. Prox Industries' services go beyond mere technology verification (Proof of Concept), offering comprehensive support from requirement definition through to development, implementation, operations, and maintenance.

Professor Matsuo, a distinguished expert in artificial intelligence, deep learning, web mining, and machine learning, brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to his new role. Throughout his career, he has achieved numerous accolades from the AI Society, including multiple academic awards. At the Matsuo-Iwasawa Lab (commonly known as Matsuo Lab), he propagates the vision of "Creating Intelligence," pushing forward research on deep learning. His focus areas include world models, robotic research, large language models, and the integration of brain science with AI. Furthermore, he emphasizes industry-academia collaboration and entrepreneurial development, aiding in the emergence of numerous AI startups from his lab. Professor Matsuo plays a critical role in advancing AI research and its practical applications, as well as grooming the next generation of talent in Japan.

Following this noteworthy appointment, Prox Industries anticipates gaining invaluable insights into AI research and business development within the industrial landscape. The company is committed to intensifying its efforts in research and development for Physical AI, robotic foundational models, and advancing digital transformation (DX) initiatives within the manufacturing sector.

Matsuo's Vision for Prox Industries

In his statement, Professor Matsuo expresses enthusiasm about joining Prox Industries: "Prox Industries is an AI and robotics vendor specialized in manufacturing, composed mainly of engineers from the University of Tokyo. We directly tackle the pressing challenges faced by the manufacturing industry today, such as the declining population and the need for technological succession. We are dedicated to advancing digital transformation. In particular, I have high expectations for our work on Physical AI and the intelligence of robots, which could bring new value to the industrial sector. I look forward to seeing Prox Industries play a pivotal role in supporting the future of Japan's manufacturing industry."

Professor Matsuo's Background

Professor Matsuo graduated from the University of Tokyo with a degree in Electronic Information Engineering in 1997 and earned his PhD in 2002 from the same institution. He has served as a research fellow at AIST, a visiting researcher at Stanford University, and has been a faculty member since 2007. His accolades include a thesis award from the AI Society in 2002, the 20th Anniversary Award in 2006, the Field Innovation Award in 2011, and a Lifetime Achievement Award in 2013. Furthermore, he has held various significant positions, including Chairperson of the Japan Deep Learning Association and Outside Director at SoftBank Group.

Ecosystem of Innovation at Matsuo Lab

The startups emerging from Matsuo Lab are dedicated to leveraging AI technologies to address societal challenges, showcasing the potential for innovation within Japan's AI sector. These ventures, either founded by Matsuo Lab alumni or supported by it, are selected based on their high growth potential and aim to create new markets and technology contributions in collaboration with industrial partners. The initiative fosters an open ecosystem, encouraging cooperation among startups and nurturing the next wave of talent to contribute to Japan's AI industry's advancement.

Company Overview

Company Name: Prox Industries Inc.
CEO: Yuji Kamei
Headquarters: 113-0033, Tokyo, Bunkyo, 3-30-10 Hongo K&K Building, 4th Floor
Business Field: AI and robotics vendor specializing in manufacturing
Founded: June 24, 2024
Website: Prox Industries

Prox Industries is on the lookout for talent to support its growth. Interested individuals can learn more about available positions, including PM roles, AI engineers, robotics engineers, and software engineers, via the following links: