Taiwan's DoIT Debuts AI Solid-State LiDAR for Next-Gen Sensing

The Department of Industrial Technology (DoIT) of Taiwan’s Ministry of Economic Affairs (MOEA) recently introduced its first AI-powered Solid-State LiDAR system, developed locally by the Industrial Technology Research Institute (ITRI).

Launched at the 2024 Taiwan Innotech Expo (TIE) at Taipei’s World Trade Center, this LiDAR technology is designed to enhance autonomous vehicle sensing precision, reportedly outperforming established algorithms in accuracy. DoIT’s strategic collaboration with Compertum Microsystems, a MEMS technology firm supported by connector leader LOTES, aims to secure a share in the growing multi-billion dollar market for advanced automotive sensors.

Chang Neng-Kai, a Senior Specialist with DoIT, highlighted MOEA’s commitment, with tens of billions of dollars invested each year in cutting-edge tech to drive Taiwan’s industrial transformation. At TIE, 64 selected technologies were showcased by 10 major research institutions, including ITRI, the Metal Industries Research & Development Centre (MIRDC), and the Automotive Research & Testing Centre (ARTC).

These developments emphasize innovation in fields such as AI, semiconductors, smart manufacturing, sustainable development, biomedicine, and textiles. At the 2024 Taiwan Innotech Expo, the Industrial Technology Research Institute (ITRI) unveiled several AI-powered applications for industry, including the innovative MicroAI 4D-SiP Solution for autonomous drones.

This technology compresses AI computing power into a fingernail-sized chip, enabling drones to gather multi-source data, like temperature and humidity, for enhanced autonomous functions.

As satellite communication continues its rapid global expansion, low-orbit satellites are becoming essential for unrestricted network coverage. The Metal Industries Research & Development Centre (MIRDC) introduced its Micro Complex Internal Pipe Coating System, a technology providing corrosion-resistant, high-hardness coatings for micro pipes, essential in low-orbit satellites.

This coating can reduce fuel degradation by 6.5x and extend satellite component lifespan, while keeping production localized for enhanced confidentiality of satellite tech designs.

Furthering Taiwan's impact as the “Bicycle Kingdom,” ITRI, with DoIT support, has developed advanced carbon-reduction technologies for bike manufacturing. These include non-T6 treated aluminum alloys, recycled carbon fiber, eco-friendly coatings, and recycled rubber tires, which collectively cut carbon emissions by up to 20% (roughly 30 kg) per bike, aligning with global sustainability goals in the cycling industry.