TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — I-Mei Foods, Mirle Automation Corp., and Syntec Technology are showcasing jointly developed drones, robotic dogs, and robots with self-controlled components and AI-powered systems at Semicon Taiwan.

The expo, which runs through Friday at Taipei Nangang Exhibition Center, features more than 1,200 companies and over 4,100 booths from around the world. Key highlights include technologies in quantum computing, chip manufacturing, and AI hardware.

Mirle said that its AI-powered operations platform is capable of collecting data from factory systems. It monitors elements such as motor status and temperature to detect operational irregularities and can also manage automated material handling systems.

Mirle is also presenting its self-developed overhead hoist transport system, which is designed to assist with the loading and unloading of goods within semiconductor fabs. The system can also place wafers directly into processing equipment. Data collected by the device is integrated into the AI platform for efficient operation and maintenance.

The company's booth also features a medium-sized unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) that can be used for pesticide spraying and cargo delivery. Mirle added that it is working on a large, military-grade UAV.

Also on display is a domestically-made humanoid robot, which is equipped with a vision module that can detect human movements and respond with simple gestures like waving or greeting. Its joints are built with titanium alloy and thermoplastic components, featuring reduction gears that help reduce overall weight.

Mirle said the robot stands approximately 1.5 to 1.7 meters tall and can lift up to 10 kilograms with one arm. Its payload capacity can be customized based on client needs.

The robot can move by walking or using wheels attached to its base. The company noted that wheeled mobility is better suited for factory environments because walking may cause vibrations that interfere with data collection and consume more energy.

The company has also developed a robotic dog equipped with thermal imaging cameras and sensors that can detect noise, temperature, and air pollution. It can be deployed for factory inspections and community patrols. All collected data is transmitted to the management system, which will issue alerts if unusual patterns are detected.

The company has collaborated with Nvidia to build an AI-powered system for managing factory operations. The system can also generate 3D digital twins of the factory floor. Together with Nvidia, it is enhancing the AI and machine learning capabilities that power the robot’s "brain."

Mirle CEO Stone Lin (林世東) highlighted the importance of AI in factories, particularly the growing role of drones, robots, and robotic dogs. He emphasized the value of locally produced components for UAVs and robotics and affirmed the strong capabilities of Taiwan’s manufacturers. 

Lin said that Mirle was pleased to team up with I-Mei and Syntec, and that the three companies will continue working to elevate the technology and performance of UAVs and robotics.

In May, the three firms established a robotics manufacturing company, with I-Mei Foods CEO Luis Ko (高志明) serving as chair. I-Mei’s partner, Golden Saddle Machinery Co., handles the manufacturing of drones, robotic dogs, and robots. Syntec provides controller technology, while Mirle manages system integration and supplies reduction gear for robot joints. 

Fu Sheng Industrial Co. will support all three companies by manufacturing composite materials for UAVs and robotics, thereby reducing weight and improving endurance.

In February 2024, Ko became chair of the Taiwan Drones-Tech Integration Consortium and acquired shares in 7A Drones, a company specializing in drone-based logistics and agricultural applications.

The group is expected to integrate domestic tech companies to build a China-free drone supply chain. It will also focus on developing key components, including motors, sensors, batteries, and flight control systems, as well as a secure UAV operating platform that incorporates quantum-safe technology and AI-powered systems.

*I-Mei is the parent company of Taiwan News