## Taiwan Aims for the Driver’s Seat: Unveiling AI Solid-State LiDAR at Innotech Expo
Taiwan is making bold strides in the world of autonomous vehicles. At the 2024 Taiwan Innotech Expo, the Ministry of Economic Affairs (MOEA) unveiled a game-changing technology: a domestically developed AI Solid-State LiDAR system. This innovation, a brainchild of the Industrial Technology Research Institute (ITRI), boasts unparalleled precision and performance, surpassing even the most advanced algorithms currently available.
A Technological Leap Forward
The new Solid-State LiDAR AI Perception Technology is more than just a technological advancement; it’s a strategic move by Taiwan to claim a significant portion of the rapidly growing autonomous vehicle market, estimated to be worth over $100 billion. The MOEA has poured significant resources into developing this technology, demonstrating a commitment to fostering innovation and propelling Taiwan’s industries into the future.
Collaboration is Key
The MOEA’s dedication to innovation isn’t limited to research. Collaboration with industry players is key to transforming research into real-world applications. The new LiDAR system is a testament to this approach, with ITRI collaborating with Compertum Microsystems, a MEMS company backed by the leading connector supplier LOTES. This collaborative effort ensures the technology’s rapid commercialization and its potential to disrupt the autonomous vehicle industry.
Beyond LiDAR: A Showcase of Innovation
The AI Solid-State LiDAR system is just one of the many technological marvels presented at the Taiwan Innotech Expo. The DoIT showcased a total of 64 technologies, representing the collective efforts of 10 prominent research institutions, including ITRI, the Metal Industries Research & Development Centre (MIRDC), the Taiwan Textile Research Institute (TTRI), and the Automotive Research & Testing Centre (ARTC). These technologies span a wide range of fields, from AI and semiconductors to smart manufacturing, sustainable development, biomedicine, and textiles.
Miniaturized AI for Drones
ITRI presented a captivating application of AI in its Programmable Platform MicroAI 4D-SiP Solution for Autonomous Drones. This technology effectively shrinks AI computers down to the size of a fingernail, allowing drones to integrate AI and sensors seamlessly into a single system. This breakthrough opens doors for drones to gather data from various nodes, enabling them to perform tasks like temperature and humidity detection, significantly enhancing their autonomy and capabilities.
Satellite Communication Advancements
The global satellite communication market is experiencing rapid growth, and low-orbit satellites are playing a crucial role in this expansion. The Micro Complex Internal Pipe Coating System Technology, developed by the MIRDC, addresses a critical challenge in this field: protecting the internal coating of micro metallic pipes used in satellites. The coating technology ensures high uniformity, hardness, and corrosion resistance, extending the lifespan of satellites and enabling Taiwan to become a key player in the production of essential satellite components.
A Sustainable Future for Cycling
Recognizing the importance of sustainability, ITRI is developing carbon reduction technologies for the bicycle industry, a sector where Taiwan is a global leader. These technologies include non-T6 treated aluminum alloy, high-performance recycled carbon fiber reinforced polymer, environmentally friendly low-temperature climate-resistant coating, and high-compatibility recycled rubber tires. By implementing these advancements, the bicycle industry can reduce carbon emissions by up to 20%, making a significant contribution to environmental sustainability.
A Vision for the Future
The showcasing of these cutting-edge technologies at the Taiwan Innotech Expo underscores the MOEA’s commitment to driving innovation and propelling Taiwan’s industries toward a brighter future. The Discovering Technology Treasures pavilion stands as a testament to Taiwan’s dedication to technological progress and its ambition to become a global leader in diverse sectors.
