Castel, the Italian manufacturer of components for refrigeration and air conditioning, has launched Kelvin, its first humanoid robot, as part of a research and experimentation project with technology partner IRMAP Service. The project will examine how robotics and artificial intelligence can support employees and integrate with their work.
Over the next 12–18 months, IRMAP Service will support Castel in the design, development and progressive programming of Kelvin. The work will translate operational requirements into specific functions and examine both technical and organisational aspects of integrating a humanoid robot into production areas and offices.
Castel said the project will assess the robot’s operational capabilities as well as its impact on working methods, organisation and collaboration between people and intelligent technologies. The company plans to observe, test and gather data while identifying activities that could benefit from human-robot collaboration.
The trial is also intended to develop internal skills in robotics, artificial intelligence and human-machine interaction. Castel said the project’s success will be evaluated not only in terms of efficiency but also by its contribution to professional development and employees’ confidence in new technologies.
“Our goal is not to replace people, but to understand how technology can support them in lower-value-added activities, allowing them to devote more time to tasks that require experience, expertise, creativity and decision-making skills.”
