Deep Explorations

This Deep Exploration explores the transformative potential of next-gen robotics software, particularly Robotic Foundation Models (RFMs). These AI models, like General Purpose Foundation Models for text and images, serve as versatile bases for various robotic applications. The proposal highlights the shift from hardware to software investment in robotics, driven by RFMs’ scalability and accuracy, enabling non-experts to implement solutions. It also covers market potential, challenges, and opportunities in robotics software, emphasizing data, simulation, and open-source approaches, and details TDK’s strategic role in utilizing these advancements to improve manufacturing and products.

Global shipping is the backbone of international trade, but it comes at a cost—contributing 3% of global CO₂ emissions. Mounting regulatory pressures, such as the EU’s extended Emissions Trading System and the IMO’s net-zero targets, are driving the need for cleaner solutions. Long asset lifespans of 20-40 years make it challenging to replace fossil-based fleets, while the inherent conflict between cost-conscious ship owners and operators adds further complexity. As the industry transitions to a multi-fuel future, emerging solutions like ammonia, methanol, electrification, advanced biofuels, and carbon capture offer promising pathways to balance cost, infrastructure, and operational realities.