In the era of advanced technology, the industrial landscape has grown increasingly complex, with the integration of software and hardware applications becoming the norm. This shift has put businesses to the test, challenging their vertical integration capabilities and collaborative endeavors. Companies are now actively seeking partnerships within their industries, as well as forging alliances across sectors. They are also engaging in fruitful collaborations with academic and research institutions to leverage innovative R&D outcomes, eliminating the need to start from scratch. The Taiwan Industrial Technology Research Institute (ITRI) has successfully translated many of its technologies into practical applications, benefiting over ten domestic companies in recent years.
As ITRI approaches its 50th anniversary in 2023, it continues its focus on four key application areas: "Smart Living," "Healthy Aging," "Sustainable Environment," and "Resilient Society."
In the realm of Smart Living, ITRI has developed a low Earth orbit satellite broadband communication system that, in conjunction with the Taiwan Space Agency's satellite system testing and launch capabilities, empowers Taiwan to establish its own satellite communication network. ITRI's independent R&D efforts include the creation of antenna RF chips that resolve challenges related to high-speed satellite flight, distances, and environmental conditions. These technologies have already facilitated the entry of at least eight ICT companies into the ranks of the world's top three satellite manufacturers. By aiding eight ICT firms in finalizing ground equipment architecture and interface design, ITRI has enabled these companies to serve as suppliers to the globe's leading three satellite heavyweights.
Anticipating future advancements in the automotive industry, ITRI developes high-transparency, high-penetration transparent projection display technology. Achieving an 85% transparency rate, this technology enables the clear projection of driving information onto the vehicle's windshield, reducing driver distraction. Furthermore, ITRI has integrated non-contact sensing technology into the ECG steering wheel, enabling drivers to monitor their heart rate and stress levels while gripping the wheel. Notably, this technology has been successfully transferred to companies like Darwin Precisions and HannsTouch.
In response to growing global concerns about sustainability, ITRI addresses environmental sustainability through the integration of hardware and software systems, enabling the aggregation and optimization of numerous low-voltage decentralized energy sources. This flexible, highly recyclable, low-carbon, and cost-effective system supports renewable energy and the recycling of electric vehicle batteries. It establishes a balance between energy utilization, storage, and distribution, quickly establishing new energy landscapes.
Testing has demonstrated a 50% reduction in energy conversion consumption, a 120% increase in material recycling, and a 30% decrease in system setup costs. ITRI has already transferred this technology to various companies, including CPC Corporation, Sanyang Motor, Sentec Group, Amita Technologies and more.
In the recently announced R&D 100 Awards, ITRI was honored with eight awards, marking its 16th consecutive year of recognition. In 2023, it stands as the leading organization in Asia in terms of awards and ranks second globally, surpassing many U.S. national laboratories. ITRI reaches the milestone of over half a century in operation, it will persist in propelling the industrialization of innovative technologies and promoting industrial transformation and advancement through technology transfer and talent development, fostering a succession of emerging industries in Taiwan.
