4 Legged Robot That Can Climb Ship Hulls For Welding & Painting Built
Japanese manufacturing giant, Kawasaki Heavy Industries, has introduced a groundbreaking innovation in the shipbuilding industry—a four-legged robot capable of climbing ship hulls and performing welding tasks. This development comes as Japan’s shipbuilding sector grapples with a scarcity of qualified workers, particularly experienced welders.
Revolutionizing Shipbuilding with Advanced Technology
The unveiling of this cutting-edge prototype took place on October 6 as part of Kawasaki’s Group Vision 2030 strategy update. The company is set to commence testing the robot at its Sakaide Works in Kagawa Prefecture, Japan, in 2027, with the aim of practical implementation by 2028.
Powered by physical artificial intelligence (AI), the robot possesses the ability to navigate vertical and curved ship surfaces and autonomously determine the required welding operations. Kawasaki’s objective is to automate tasks that are typically challenging to carry out using traditional equipment.
Measuring at 60 cm by 44 cm by 29 cm, the robot utilizes electromagnets to attach itself securely to a ship’s hull. Equipped with cameras and sensors, it can inspect weld seams and accurately assess the necessary welding work.
Pioneering the Future of Shipbuilding
Traditionally, shipyard workers rely on high-reach vehicles to weld and assemble large prefabricated sections. Kawasaki’s innovative robot is designed to operate directly on the hull, including hard-to-reach areas. Additionally, the technology aims to assist workers in executing shipbuilding tasks efficiently, especially during high-temperature conditions in the summer.
Kawasaki Heavy Industries President, Yasuhiko Hashimoto, highlighted the ongoing decline in the workforce within Japan’s shipbuilding industry. He emphasized the challenge of transferring the knowledge and techniques of skilled workers to the younger generation. To address this issue, the company plans to leverage the expertise of veteran workers to develop physical AI systems that can control robots and perform tasks autonomously.
In a strategic move, Kawasaki recently announced a collaboration with US chipmaker NVIDIA to integrate shipbuilding and robotics expertise with physical AI, digital-twin, and simulation technologies. This partnership aims to streamline vessel design and production at the Sakaide facility, promoting the use of robots and autonomous systems in ship construction.
Looking Towards a Digital Shipyard Future
Kawasaki envisions extending the application of physical AI beyond shipbuilding to encompass vessel operations, maintenance, and servicing. These initiatives form part of the company’s vision for a “next-generation digital shipyard.” Notably, other Japanese firms are also exploring physical AI technology, with Hitachi partnering with industrial robot maker Fanuc to develop machines for various industries.
As the industry progresses towards automation and advanced technologies, Kawasaki’s shipbuilding robot is poised to lead the way, with demonstration testing scheduled to commence in 2027, paving the path for practical utilization in 2028.
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