NTN Exhibits at “Kansai Robot World 2026”
June 23, 2026
- Proposing an Automated Appearance Inspection Solution Integrating “i-WRIST” and AI
| Date | June 25 (Thu) to June 26 (Fri) |
|---|---|
| Venue | Hall 5, INTEX Osaka (1-5-102, Nanko-Kita, Suminoe-ku, Osaka) |
| Booth No. | No.4-8 |
Official site
https://www.srobo.jp/(Japanese only)
NTN Corporation (hereafter, NTN) will exhibit at “Kansai Robot World 2026,” to be held at INTEX Osaka (Suminoe-ku, Osaka) from June 25 to 26, 2026.
In recent years, demand for automated appearance inspection has been increasing in manufacturing sites due to labor shortages and the need to stabilize product quality. However, complex-shaped workpieces often require inspection from various angles, and many processes still rely on manual visual inspection.
To address these challenges, NTN proposes an appearance inspection solution using its wrist joint module “i-WRIST,” which provides multi-directional motion like a human wrist and enables observation of objects from various angles when combined with cameras and sensors.
At this exhibition, NTN will showcase an automated appearance inspection system that integrates “i-WRIST Type-U,” a mass-production model launched earlier this spring for appearance inspection applications, with the AI defect inspection application “MiraLens,” developed by KDDI Technology Corporation (Head Office: Koto-ku, Tokyo; President: Kenjiro Mizoguchi; hereafter “KDDI Technology”). By combining flexible imaging enabled by the high-speed, high-precision motion control of “i-WRIST” with highly accurate defect detection using AI in “MiraLens,” the system enables automated appearance inspection of multiple points and surfaces—previously considered difficult to achieve.
NTN will continue to collaborate with image processing manufacturers and robot system integrators (SIers), focusing on “i-WRIST,” to provide optimal appearance inspection solutions tailored to customers' workpieces and inspection conditions. Through these efforts, NTN aims to contribute to manufacturing automation, labor savings, and improved quality.
We look forward to welcoming you to our booth.
Main exhibits
Wrist Joint Module “i-WRIST”
A compact, space-saving positioning module that provides a wide range of motion. It enables smooth, high-speed adjustment of fine positions and angles—tasks that are difficult for conventional articulated robots—just like a human wrist.
By integrating with other robots and attaching end effectors such as cameras, dispensers, and cleaning nozzles, the module enables automation of various processes, including appearance inspection, grease application, and cleaning, thereby improving operational efficiency and enabling labor savings in manufacturing sites.
“i-WRIST Type-U (Small model)”
A unit designed for appearance inspection that integrates “i-WRIST” motion control technology with linear and rotary actuators. By consolidating the functions required for multi-point inspection, it helps reduce equipment design effort, component procurement, and startup time for customers.
The small model on display features a compact, space-saving design suitable for installation in limited spaces. A large model is also available, allowing flexible adaptation to a wide range of workpiece sizes and weights.
Related Links
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i-WRIST product website (Japanese only):
https://www.ntn.co.jp/i-wrist/index.html
AI Defect Inspection Application “MiraLens”
“MiraLens,” developed by KDDI Technology, features proprietary AI technology that enables the creation of an AI model for defect inspection using only five images of non-defective products. This significantly reduces implementation cost and time compared to conventional inspection processes. The application also supports PLC integration and re-learning functions, allowing flexible operation tailored to individual production sites.
Related Links
-
KDDI Technology website (Japanese only):
https://kddi-tech.com/ -
The “MiraLens” introducing page (Japanese only):
https://kddi-tech.com/lp/miralens/
Renaming of the “i-WRIST” Series
With the expansion of the “i-WRIST” product lineup*1, NTN will rename the series from June 2026 and continue to expand the lineup to support a wider range of applications and deliver new value.
- Press release on May 11,2026:
High-Speed Appearance Inspection Unit Integrating “i-WRIST” Adopted by Major Die-Casting Manufacturer
https://www.ntnglobal.com/en/news/new_products/news202600027.html
| New name | Former name | Features |
|---|---|---|
| i-WRIST Type- |
Three-unit configuration |
A model consisting of “i-WRIST,” a dedicated controller, and a dedicated console, enabling equipment control in combination with various actuators and allowing flexible equipment configuration tailored to manufacturing needs. |
| i-WRIST Type- |
Starter package |
A packaged model including safety covers and a control panel for testing and verification purposes, ready for immediate use after installing end effectors and workpieces. |
| i-WRIST Type- |
High-speed inspection unit |
A model intended for use in mass production lines, particularly for appearance inspection of die-cast products, supporting flexible customization and on-site installation in collaboration with robot system integrators (SIers). |
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