SK AX is launching a comprehensive initiative to support the robot transition (RX) in manufacturing, from robot implementation to autonomous factory development.
On Thursday, SK AX unveiled its Manufacturing RX Full Stack Service, designed to boost productivity and efficiency in the manufacturing sector.
This service aims to overcome the limitations of traditional rule-based automation by providing end-to-end support. It covers everything from virtual validation prior to robot deployment to on-site autonomous control and integrated factory-wide operations.
The process begins with creating a digital twin, which simulates the actual factory environment. This includes floor plans, equipment layout, worker movements, material flow, and real-time quality changes based on process conditions.
After virtual validation, robots are deployed on-site. These robots are equipped with Vision-Language-Action (VLA) based physical artificial intelligence (AI), integrating visual, linguistic, and behavioral capabilities.
The final phase focuses on integrated operations, a cornerstone of future factories. SK AX employs a Heterogeneous Robot Integrated Control System to unify robots from various manufacturers under a single operating framework. This system interfaces with other relevant platforms, such as Manufacturing Execution Systems (MES), to provide comprehensive process oversight.
SK AX is currently validating its digital twin and robot control integration systems in the semiconductor industry, while also gathering valuable field data. The company has recently expanded these efforts into the shipbuilding sector.
Kim Kwang-soo, head of SK AX’s manufacturing services division, emphasized that the shift towards robotics in manufacturing goes beyond simply purchasing hardware. The key lies in developing operational capabilities that ensure robots function reliably on the production floor and integrate seamlessly with the entire factory ecosystem. He added that SK AX aims to be the go-to AI transformation (AX) partner, leveraging the expertise in digital twins, physical AI, and heterogeneous robot control to transform the clients’ facilities into cutting-edge autonomous factories.
SK AX, formerly known as SK C&C, is the systems integration (SI) arm of the SK Group. The company rebranded last year to highlight its role as an AX service partner, focusing on driving client innovation through AI technology and expanding its AX-related business portfolio.