TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — National Cheng Kung University in Tainan on Monday held a forum on the use of AI and robotics in smart manufacturing, featuring business executives sharing how big data and AI technologies are being used to improve production efficiency.
Qisda Chair Peter Chen (陳其宏) said that humanoid robots could be first applied in smart manufacturing to address labor shortages. He expects the global automotive sector could see significant changes as a result, per CNA.
Chen also shared Qisda’s experience in smart manufacturing. The company has integrated AI-powered systems and robotics to enhance scheduling, logistics, production, and quality control. The company’s AI and IoT division has generated nearly NT$40 billion (US$1.29 billion) in revenue.
Chen highlighted that Taiwan is a major global manufacturing hub and should leverage data combined with AI and robotics to boost productivity and product quality. He said that smart manufacturing goes beyond automation, allowing AI-driven systems to monitor, analyze, and make decisions autonomously.
Mirle Automation Chair Sun Hung (孫弘) said the shift from automation to smart manufacturing is an inevitable trend. He noted that integrating AI and machine learning into equipment maintenance and production optimization can boost efficiency. Sun also highlighted the use of digital twins to create virtual models of production.
Sun noted that Mirle has developed robotic dogs to assist with factory inspections and collect production line data. The company has also created humanoid robot joint modules made of aluminum and titanium alloys, cutting weight by more than 50% compared with steel modules.
David Tsai (蔡清雄), vice president of Delta Electronics’ motion control business unit, said the company has promoted smart manufacturing since 2015. In 2023, Delta launched a smart factory platform that links digital systems with production, increasing output by 70% while reducing the production floor area by 35%.
Ken Lin (林建誠), AMD Taiwan sales director for Datacenter and Embedded Solutions, said that large models and generative AI are driving higher computing demands.
Liu Kuan-liang (劉冠良), senior solution architect manager at Nvidia, added that Nvidia is working with Taiwanese manufacturers using its GR00T, which optimizes production and robotics, and Cosmos, which simulates and models factory processes, to improve smart manufacturing.
