Hyundai and Kia have unveiled new technologies to help improve efficiency in their factories through the use of advanced software, including artificial intelligence.
The technologies were unveiled on Tuesday in a presentation held by the automakers at a joint research laboratory in Seoul and will be gradually introduced into factories operated by the automakers and their subsidiaries.
A key technology is based on software defined vehicle conceptor SDV. An SDV is essentially a vehicle whose software and hardware allows it to be monitored in real time and updated as needed, potentially throughout its useful life.
In their presentation, Hyundai and Kia described a software-defined factory, where everything is connected through smart technologies, in a quest to improve efficiency. AI is also integrated to achieve data and software-based decision making.
Hyundai and Kia software-defined factory prototype
Hyundai and Kia said the software-defined factory will be able to offer shorter production readiness time, faster manufacturing speed, lower investment costs for launching new vehicles and better quality.
Some of the specific technologies and processes envisioned included autonomous robots for logistics, automated production of flexible and odd-shaped vehicle parts such as hoses and wires, an infinitely variable multi-axis clamping device, and automated quality control systems that can perform security in time. real. inspections and checks of equipment in manufacturing environments.
Many of the technologies rely on AI, vision processing and big data processing, and according to Hyundai and Kia, they will become essential as factories start introduce humanoid robots on the production line.
Some of the technologies demonstrated are already being implemented. Nissan earlier this month detailed a quality control system that uses AI to help stain paint imperfections in cars produced in its factories in the USA. And car manufacturers such as BMW, Mercedes-Benz and Tesla are exploring the use of autonomous humanoid robots in their factories. Tesla is developing its own robot known as Optimuswhile BMW and Mercedes work with startups specializing in robotics.