FANUC CORPORATION has announced a collaboration with Google focused on applying AI technologies to FANUC robot systems. The initiative expands the use of open-platform and Physical AI capabilities across the company’s robotics portfolio.
Physical AI refers to systems that combine AI-based decision-making with physical machine action. In robotics, this includes systems that use sensors to interpret their surroundings, make decisions and carry out tasks.
FANUC robots support ROS through the company’s open-source ROS drivers. The systems are also compatible with technologies commonly used in AI and automation development, including the Python programming language, high-speed communication interfaces for external robot control and interfaces for PLC-based operation. Google contributes to ROS through its Intrinsic robotics group.
These open-platform features are intended to help manufacturers deploy Physical AI robot systems in factory settings. FANUC’s robot range includes models from 3-kg payload units to large robots with payloads up to 2.3 tons, including the CRX collaborative series.
FANUC introduced its Physical AI system at the International Robot Exhibition in Tokyo in December. More than 1,000 robots have since been shipped for applications related to Physical AI.
The collaboration with Google is intended to support more adaptable automation for manufacturers in North America.
For more information, visit fanucamerica.com.