South Korea is preparing to test a new generation of AI-powered industrial robots at HD Hyundai Samho’s shipyard in Yeongam.
The project will combine robotics, artificial intelligence and a private 5G network. Field trials are scheduled to begin in October with the participation of Samsung Electronics and South Korean telecommunications operator KT.
One of the main technologies being tested will be an AI-powered quadruped welding robot capable of independently recognising its surroundings, navigating the shipyard and performing precision welding operations.
The robot’s four-legged design is intended to allow it to operate inside complex and difficult-to-access sections of vessels under construction, where conventional automated equipment may be unable to work effectively.
The shipyard will also test robotic systems for painting ship structures, as well as autonomous machines designed to inspect and maintain telecommunications equipment.
The robots will operate through a private 5G network. Data will be processed directly at the shipyard instead of being transmitted to remote cloud infrastructure.
This approach is expected to provide low latency, reliable data transmission and the ability to control industrial robots in real time.
Samsung will supply its Network in a Server platform, which combines a virtualised radio access network, an AI-powered core and industrial applications. KT will develop the network infrastructure and autonomous control system.
Developers describe the combination of physical machines, artificial intelligence and high-speed communications as Physical AI. The technology allows robots not only to follow programmed instructions but also to analyse their surroundings and make independent decisions.
Shipyards are becoming an important testing ground for industrial robotics. Automation can help address shortages of skilled workers while reducing the risks associated with difficult, repetitive and potentially hazardous tasks.
Experience gained during the trials is also expected to support the development of future sixth-generation industrial communication networks.
