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Kawada Robotics and The University of Tokyo Collaborate on Robot Foundation Model

Kawada Robotics, known for its innovative humanoid robot technologies, has officially commenced a partnership with The University of Tokyo, particularly with the Matsuo-Iwasawa Laboratory. This collaboration focuses on the creation and enhancement of a foundational model for robotics, targeting practical applications in humanoid robots through the utilization of advanced AI technologies.

The primary objective of this initiative is to establish a robust data collection infrastructure to support task information gathering that will fuel the development of generative AI models within the robotics sector. Kawada Robotics will leverage its extensive experience in the development and operation of humanoid robots to enhance this project. This includes exploring effective hardware solutions to facilitate efficient data collection and providing real-world testing environments to validate these initiatives.

Objectives and Scope of the Partnership

In this collaboration, Kawada Robotics is tasked with developing devices and refining environments necessary for the operation and learning processes of humanoid robots. The efforts will integrate with the foundational model research being conducted by the university, creating a conducive setting for researchers and companies alike to engage in the study of humanoid robot models. The outcomes of this initiative are expected to contribute to a platform with wide-ranging applications, aimed at advancing the research and societal integration of humanoid and AI robots.

Additionally, Kawada Robotics is part of the KTI Kawada Group, which actively promotes the societal implementation of AI and robotics through its participation in the AI Robotics Association (AIRoA).

NEXTAGE: A Step Towards Humanoid Robots

Since launching its humanoid robot development efforts in collaboration with The University of Tokyo in 1999, Kawada Robotics has over 25 years of experience in this field. With an increasing demand for versatile robots that can collaborate with humans, particularly in light of labor shortages and the rise of small-batch production, Kawada Robotics has developed the humanoid robot named NEXTAGE. This robot embodies the company's philosophy of achieving simultaneous technical advancement and societal integration.

The NEXTAGE robot has been implemented across various production environments in Japan, where it has aided in processes such as the assembly of electronic and mechanical components and the packaging of everyday goods. Its adaptability has made it a valuable asset in multiple applications.

The Foundation Model Explained

The robotics foundation model merges robotic and AI technologies to significantly enhance the flexibility and versatility of robots. The increasing need for automation in response to a shrinking workforce due to Japan's aging population is driving this innovation. While robots have been introduced in many contexts, challenges remain in instructing robots to manage soft and diverse objects using traditional teaching methods.

To address these hurdles, a new foundation model is being developed through extensive real-world data analysis. This framework aims to facilitate the deployment of embodying AI-equipped robots in complex and automated tasks that were previously deemed unmanageable.

Upcoming Demonstration at iREX 2025

Kawada Robotics will showcase the advancements made in this collaboration at the International Robot Exhibition 2025 (iREX 2025). This exhibition will feature a demonstration of the teleoperation capabilities of NEXTAGE, utilizing the leader device and data collection systems developed as part of this project. Data collected will be instrumental for learning the foundation models.

iREX 2025 Details:

• - Dates: December 3-6, 2025
• - Location: Tokyo Big Sight, East Halls 4-8, West Halls 1-4, Atrium
• - Booth: E4-06 (East Hall 4)

For inquiries, you can contact Kawada Robotics at their sales department via phone: 03-5830-3310 or via email at nextagekawadarobot.co.jp (replace [kawadarobot.co.jp] with @).

Kawada Robotics is headquartered at 1-3-5 Matsugaya, Taito-ku, Tokyo, Japan. The company was established on April 1, 2013, and continues to drive innovation in humanoid robotics.