대학신문방송국

Physical AI

By Kim Si-yeon, Reporter, Junior of Electronic Engineering

Artificial intelligence (AI) has long been recognized as a technology that mainly operates in virtual spaces. Chatbots, recommendation algorithms, and data analysis systems have mainly processed information and provided results within digital environments. However, with recent technological advances, AI is expanding beyond the digital world and moving into a stage where it can act directly in the real world. In this trend, the concept of “Physical AI” has begun to gain attention.

From Virtual AI to Physical AI

AI technology is expanding beyond simple data analysis to a stage where it can directly interact with the physical environment. Recently, Hyundai Motor Company has begun developing and introducing robots for its automobile production process, increasing public and industrial interest in Physical AI. Unlike traditional AI systems that mainly analyze data, these robots can recognize objects, move around factories, and perform tasks in real production environments. Such technologies are clear examples of AI interacting with the physical world. This trend shows that AI is expanding beyond virtual environments and entering real industrial settings.

Physical AI refers to AI technology that recognizes the surrounding environment through sensors, makes decisions based on the collected information, and physical actions in the real world through a control system. This process can be explained in three main stages. First, the system recognizes the environment using various devices such as cameras, LiDAR, and ultrasonic sensors. Second, it analyzes the collected data to understand the situation and plan paths or actions. Third, the planned actions are executed in the real world using motors and control devices. In other words, the key feature of Physical AI is that it integrates the entire process of recognition, decision-making, and action.

Where Is Physical AI Used?

Physical AI technology is being applied in various fields such as autonomous vehicles, industrial robots, logistics automation systems, and smart factories. For example, autonomous vehicles recognize road conditions in real time, distinguish pedestrians from other vehicles, and calculate the safest route. In logistics warehouses, robots can identify the location of goods and automatically move to transport them. Through these applications, Physical AI is improving both efficiency and accuracy while reducing the need for human intervention.

Global Competition and Future Outlook

Global companies are also focusing on developing and advancing Physical AI technologies. Boston Dynamics has developed advanced mobile robots for use in industrial settings and research. NVIDIA provides high-performance chips and simulation platforms for AI computing. Tesla is expanding the application of AI in the real world through autonomous driving technology and humanoid robot development. In addition, The Massachusetts Institute of Technology is actively conducting research that combines robotics and artificial intelligence, leading the development of next-generation technologies.

The emergence of Physical AI is expected to bring structural changes not only to technology but also to industrial structures and society as a whole. In manufacturing, production efficiency can be improved, and in dangerous working environments, worker safety can be better protected. Physical AI is a key technology that expands AI from virtual systems to real-world applications. By integrating recognition, decision-making, and action, these systems can accelerate industrial automation and increase social efficiency. As the technology becomes more advanced, the use of Physical AI is expected to expand beyond manufacturing into fields such as healthcare, disaster response, and the service industry. As AI begins to act in the real world, interest in how it will influence and transform society is likely to continue growing.