JTEKT and AIST accelerate AI-powered smart factory for grinding

Collaborative research project launched in 2019

JTEKT began a joint research initiative with Japan’s National Institute of Advanced Industrial Science and Technology (AIST) in June 2019 to develop smart factory technologies using artificial intelligence (AI). The goal of the project is to enhance plant productivity by introducing AI-based automation and optimization into grinding processes.

The partnership combines JTEKT’s expertise in grinding machines with AIST’s strength in sensing and information processing. The initial focus is on visualizing the condition of NC grinding machines by developing advanced sensing and data acquisition methods. The project aims to accelerate the realization of an AI-based smart factory specialized in grinding.

Developing autonomous grinding machines

The collaboration operates as a joint research laboratory at AIST Tsukuba, with 20 researchers—10 each from JTEKT and AIST. The research theme is the “smartification” of machine tools and production lines, including the development of core technologies.

In this project, smartification refers to a factory-wide production system that uses AI to reduce downtime, predict failures, prevent defective products, and minimize material waste.

In the first phase, the team will establish a method for collecting information on machining conditions and machine status. They are also working to develop grinding machines capable of autonomously adjusting machining parameters.

The second phase will expand the scope to factory-wide optimization. By networking multiple autonomous grinding machines, the system will continuously analyze machining data and provide real-time feedback to prevent defects and equipment failures. The first phase is scheduled for practical implementation in fiscal year 2022, followed by the second phase in fiscal 2024.

Promoting open innovation in the machine tool industry

At a press conference in April 2019, JTEKT Chairman Seiichi Sudo emphasized the importance of open innovation, stating, “Technological evolution is accelerating, and we cannot advance development alone.”

Sudo had already begun discussions on the collaboration with AIST President Ryoji Chubachi in 2018. As part of its digital strategy, JTEKT promotes the concept of the Internet of Everything (IoE), which connects machines, people, and services. Data visualization is considered a critical foundation for achieving this vision.

While many companies are working on data collection in machining, acquiring accurate data from grinding machines is considered especially difficult. Grinding processes, such as monitoring the wear condition of grinding stones, require specialized sensing solutions. “This is where we will work with AIST, which excels in sensing and digital reproduction,” said JTEKT Executive Officer Kazunori Hayashida.

JTEKT is the primary funder of the project and will retain the majority of the research outcomes. Although the amount of investment has not been disclosed, this collaboration marks the first formal joint research project between a machine tool builder and AIST. “We see this as an opportunity to deepen our partnerships with Japanese machine tool manufacturers,” said AIST’s Chubachi.