Shimizu Corporation has completed its investment in U.S.-based Noble Machines and will begin full-scale joint development of humanoid AI robots for construction sites, integrating the companies' hardware and software. Testing in a virtual space will advance by year-end, followed by testing at actual construction sites next spring.
Shimizu Corporation has completed its investment in U.S.-based Noble Machines and announced plans to promote the joint development of AI robots. The collaboration will combine Shimizu Corporation's expertise in construction sites with Noble Machines' robot development capabilities, with the aim of supporting or replacing physically demanding work.
Noble Machines develops the body, control systems and operating software for the MOBY series of humanoid AI robots for the construction industry, providing hardware and general-purpose AI software suited to harsh working environments.
Through its collaboration with the company, Shimizu Corporation plans to combine simulations in virtual spaces with field testing and accelerate development and improvements suited to construction applications. Virtual testing is expected to begin by year-end, followed by testing of actual units at construction sites from next spring, including the transport of materials and equipment, movement and patrols.
The initiative aims to achieve work support through the integration of people and robots in the construction industry, where labor shortages are a concern.
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