AI EXPO 2018: Highlighting AI in the manufacturing industry

Over 46,000 visitors attend Japan’s largest AI-focused exhibition

The second AI EXPO was held at Tokyo Big Sight from April 4 to 6, 2018. The event attracted approximately 46,000 attendees from a wide range of industries including manufacturing, telecommunications, and services. Among the exhibits, particular attention was given to AI applications in the manufacturing sector.

Musashi Seimitsu demonstrates AI-based visual inspection

Musashi Seimitsu Industry, a manufacturer of automotive components, showcased an automatic visual inspection system developed in collaboration with ABEJA, a startup specializing in AI technologies.
The system features an AI-powered robot that inspects images of finished gear parts, having learned to differentiate between acceptable and defective items. It then automatically removes any defective parts.

A company representative commented, “Before marketing the system externally, we will first implement it at our own factory.”

Yaskawa Electric’s AI subsidiary showcases bin-picking robot

AI Cube, a company established by Yaskawa Electric in March 2018 to accelerate its AI research, also participated in the event.
At its booth, AI Cube demonstrated a robotic system (see photo) capable of picking out required parts from a box containing various components.

A representative explained, “We are aiming to commercialize this system in the next fiscal year.”