Computer Aided Design of Self-Learning Robotic System Using Imitation Learning

Abstract

Artificial intelligence (AI), imitation learning, big data, cloud and distributed computing, robotics cells, and information communication technology, are some of the key tools and elements of the future digital and smart manufacturing facility. There are a number of challenges that digital and smart manufacturing is facing, especially with the complication of AI (i.e., machine, deep and cognitive learning) algorithms, great amount of data to process, and essential complex coding required, which makes immediate changes needed in manufacturing facilities not straightforward. This is notable in small manufacturing cells which is an integrated part of future smart factories such manufacturing facilities are usually needed some annual and regular updates to meet the update in the design specifications of next generation of products. Imitation learning is offering a great opportunity to overcome these challenges and simplify such complications, where human skills, ability to perform specific tasks, knowledge, and talent could be transferred. This is conveying the knowledge, and skills transfer using imitation learning. However, smart manufacturing and industrial revolution needs robotics cells that has skills beyond this, especially when it comes to process optimisation. Therefore, deep imitation learning could come in to help in the development of self-learning robotic systems and cells. Of course with the powerful tools such as distributed computing, blockchain, cloud computing, edge computing, and 5G the collaboration between such self-learning robotic cells will be possible. This will certainly not eliminate human existence but will enhance the manufacturing environment. This paper is focused on presenting the outcomes of CAD simulation and modelling phase of the ongoing research programme that focused on developing a self-learning robotic system using imitation learning. CAD tools have been used and some initial results is presented. Further work is still undertaken, and this will focus on learning from more than one expert, optimisation, impact of dynamic manufacturing environment.