[THK Co., Ltd.] Provided High-Speed, High-Precision 'Linear Motor XY Axis Unit' for Sony AI's Research Project

THK Co., Ltd. (Minato-ku, Tokyo; President: Takashi Teramachi; hereinafter 'THK') has provided a high-speed, high-precision 'Linear Motor XY Axis Unit' to a research project by Sony AI*. A paper demonstrating the results of this research was published in the international scientific journal Nature (Issue 8110) released on April 23. *Sony AI is a division of Sony Research Inc. When speaking of AI in the real world, it is becoming quite common for AI to machine-learn human skills, tactics, and strategies in games like chess or shogi, and subsequently defeat top professionals in those fields. On the other hand, in the world of physical games and sports, where physical interaction is required within three-dimensional movements, it has been considered difficult for AI to play on par with humans. The research project conducted by Sony AI this time tackled this challenge, and THK provided the 'Linear Motor XY Axis Unit' for this project. High-speed operation / High agility Even with a payload exceeding 40 kg, it achieves a 0.8-second reciprocating motion driven by a linear motor with fully synchronized control of all actuators. Based on the technology and track record cultivated as a leading manufacturer of machine element components, THK will continue to contribute to the development of the competitiveness of AI technology through the core robotics technology and development know-how that form part of our future growth strategy. Name Linear Motor XY Axis Unit External Dimensions 3200mm × 2300mm Stroke X-axis (lower axis) 925mm / Y-axis (upper axis) 750mm Main Body Mass 900kg Drive Method Linear motor drive Acceleration/Deceleration 2G Click here for the news release Click here for the press release [About the Sony AI Research Project] > 2026.04.22 Sony AI Announces Groundbreaking Research in Real-World Artificial Intelligence and Robotics You can also view the project details on YouTube. Project Ace https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FrGq8ltb-_E [About Sony AI] Sony AI was established in 2020 as a subsidiary of Sony Group Corporation and changed its name to Sony Research Inc. in 2023. Currently, Sony AI operates as a division of Sony Research, continuing its activities with the mission to 'unleash human imagination and creativity with AI.' Sony AI promotes research and development that merges cutting-edge artificial intelligence R&D with the Sony Group's technology groups such as imaging, sensing, and robotics, as well as entertainment assets like games, music, and movies. [About THK Co., Ltd.] Since its establishment in 1971, THK has focused on developing various products as a creative development-oriented company. In 1972, the following year, we commercialized the 'LM Guide (Linear Motion Guide),' which realized the 'rolling' of linear motion parts of machinery ahead of the rest of the world. This dramatically improved the performance of mechatronics equipment such as machine tools. In recent years, it has also been used in railway vehicles, medical equipment, high-rise buildings and residences, and amusement equipment, bringing various innovations to the world. https://www.thk.com/