2026

• Launching validation testing for visual inspection using NTN's i-WRIST at Yazaki's innovation facility
• Aiming to further automate manufacturing sites and create new value through AI and robotics

NTN Corporation (“NTN”) and Yazaki Corporation (President: Riku Yazaki; Head Office: Minato-ku, Tokyo; “Yazaki”) have launched co-creation activities aimed at next-generation manufacturing utilizing AI and robotics. As the first step of this initiative, NTN has installed its robotic module, i-WRIST, at “Innovation Hub-REN,” an innovation facility operated by Yazaki in Susono City, Shizuoka Prefecture. At the facility, the companies have begun validation testing of visual inspection using i-WRIST in combination with AI image processing technology developed by Yazaki. Through this initiative, NTN and Yazaki aim to further automate manufacturing sites with a view to future applications of Physical AI.

In the manufacturing industry, demand for the automation of manufacturing processes continues to grow amid labor shortages and a lack of skilled workers, driven by the need to improve productivity and maintain consistent quality. Innovation Hub-REN serves as a development base for next-generation smart factories utilizing AI and humanoids, where Yazaki conducts research and development on automating manufacturing processes and creating new value.

Through previous technical exchanges, NTN and Yazaki have explored ways to automate manufacturing sites by leveraging their respective technologies and expertise. As part of this initiative, NTN has installed i-WRIST at the facility and began validation testing to further automate the visual inspection process using actual parts provided by Yazaki.

“Innovation Hub-REN” (Susono City, Shizuoka Prefecture)
Photo provided by Yazaki Corporation

“i-WRIST Type-U (compact model)”
installed for validation testing aimed at further
automation of the visual inspection process

Validating automation of visual inspection using “i-WRIST”

Developed by NTN, “i-WRIST” is a robotic module that achieves high-speed positioning through smooth movements similar to those of a human wrist. It can be utilized for automating a wide range of processes, including inspection operations.

The “i-WRIST Type-U (compact model)” installed in this initiative is a high-speed unit for visual inspection that incorporates “i-WRIST” technology. In this validation effort, the companies will verify the effectiveness of the unit's high-speed operation in enabling more compact equipment and evaluate its applicability to actual production processes using Yazaki's inspection workpieces.

In addition, NTN and Yazaki will explore further opportunities to automate manufacturing processes by combining “i-WRIST” with technologies such as AI and image recognition. Through this effort, the companies aim to create new value by leveraging their respective technologies and expertise.

Going forward, NTN will continue exploring new applications for “i-WRIST” through co-creation with Yazaki. At the same time, NTN will promote further automation of manufacturing sites utilizing AI while seeking to develop technologies and products that contribute to next-generation manufacturing, with future applications of Physical AI also in mind.

“i-WRIST” Robotic Wrist Joint Module

i-WRIST is an angle control module that offers a compact, space-saving design while providing a wide range of motion. It enables rapid and precise position and angle adjustments through smooth movements similar to those of a human wrist, which are difficult to achieve with vertically articulated robots.

When combined with other robots or equipped with end effectors such as cameras, dispensers, and cleaning nozzles, i-WRIST enables automation of various processes including visual inspection, grease application, and cleaning, contributing to improved efficiency and labor saving in manufacturing sites.

Related Links

• i-WRIST product website (Japanese only):
  https://www.ntn.co.jp/i-wrist/index.html

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