NEC has developed a new “physical AI” technology designed to reduce human stress and improve collaboration between people and robots in workplaces such as warehouses, factories, and retail environments.

The system uses NEC’s proprietary “world model” AI to predict human movement and psychological states in real time. By analyzing a person’s position, posture, and surrounding environment, the technology estimates stress levels and adjusts a robot’s speed and movement path accordingly, allowing robots to operate in ways that minimize discomfort and avoid collisions with nearby workers.

NEC said the technology could help expand the use of robots in environments where space is limited and dedicated robot zones are not available, such as small and medium-sized logistics facilities. By enabling safer and more natural human-robot interaction, the company expects the innovation to support solutions for labor shortages and improve operational productivity. Source: NEC.