### Tomoro Robotics: Pioneering Physical AI
Tomoro Robotics, an innovative artificial intelligence firm, is making strides toward becoming a global leader in the field of physical AI through its cutting-edge natural language-driven training technology. Founded in April 2022 by CEO Zhang Byoung-tak, the company operates under the concept of “embodied AI,” emphasizing the importance of robots having a physical presence to fully understand and interact with the world.
### The Heart of Physical AI
During a recent visit to Tomoro Robotics’ humanoid AI research lab in Seoul, we observed various humanoid robots from prominent Korean robotics companies, such as Rainbow Robotics’ RB-Y1 and Robotis’ AI Walker, all linked to advanced computer systems. “To realize physical AI, we assign tasks to various humanoid robot models and collect the resulting data,” explains Zhang. The data collected is utilized to train these robots using the company’s proprietary foundation model known as CLIP-RT.
### What is CLIP-RT?
CLIP-RT is an advanced robot foundation model that integrates vision, language processing, and physical trajectories. Drawing inspiration from OpenAI’s CLIP, this model enables robots to learn and adapt by experiencing their environment. This innovative approach gained significant attention with a paper accepted at a prominent international robotics conference this year, highlighting the potential impact of Tomoro Robotics on the AI landscape.
### The Vision of Embodied AI
Zhang highlights the necessity of experience in developing true AI understanding. “For AI to fully grasp the world, it must directly sense and engage with the physical environment,” he states. Merely processing text or images isn’t enough; real-world interaction is key for enhancing the capabilities of AI. Initially focused on logistics automation, Tomoro Robotics is currently partnering with CJ Logistics Corp. on proof-of-concept projects that use humanoid robots to assist in parcel sorting.
### Forging Strategic Alliances
With the recent launch of the K-Humanoid Alliance, spearheaded by the Ministry of Trade, Industry, and Energy, Tomoro Robotics is striving to cultivate a general-purpose humanoid ecosystem. This initiative leverages Korea’s strong manufacturing capabilities and information and communication technology (ICT) infrastructure. “Korea boasts a diverse manufacturing portfolio and world-class ICT capabilities,” says Zhang, emphasizing the nation’s potential to lead in the humanoid robotics arena.
### Collaboration for Innovation
In alignment with this alliance, Tomoro Robotics has been actively forming partnerships with leading domestic robotics companies. A significant agreement was reached last month with Robotis, focusing on the development of high-precision robot hardware and navigation systems. While Robotis works on the hardware side, Tomoro Robotics is dedicated to advancing control software and applications that integrate voice, vision, and natural language processing technologies.
### Challenges and Opportunities Ahead
Zhang is optimistic but realistic about the journey ahead. He believes the landscape of physical AI presents an unparalleled opportunity for Korea to secure a leadership position globally. However, he underscores the need for concerted efforts in tackling regulatory challenges while fostering technological innovation. “It’s essential for the public and private sectors to collaborate on balanced policies that protect privacy and safety without inhibiting progress,” he argues.
### A Future Driven by Physical AI
The goal of Tomoro Robotics is clear: they aim to develop robots that can perceive, act, and function similarly to humans. The path they are paving is not just about technological advancement; it’s about redefining the interaction between AI and the physical world.
### About the Authors
This article is brought to you by Lee Yun-sik and Chang Iou-chung, contributing insights into the dynamic field of robotics and AI through Pulse by Maeil Business News Korea.