The Ministry of Digital Affairs (MODA) held the 2024 Metal Forming Industry AI Exchange and Matchmaking Conference (Demo Day) at the GIS Xinwuri Convention Center in Taichung on December 3, 2024. In a recent speech, Lin Yi-Jing(林宜敬次長), the Deputy Minister of the Ministry of Digital Affairs, addressed the growing intensity of competition within the global technology sector. He emphasized the significant challenges countries face in transforming their industries as they adjust to emerging technological innovations. To sustain its position of leadership in the current competitive environment, Taiwan must harness the innovation and market dynamics that are driven by private free market competition. AI software companies must focus on enhancing product competitiveness and advancing technological applications to effectively address the specific challenges within the metal forming industry. Furthermore, it is essential for these companies to implement robust marketing strategies that facilitate the expansion into international markets, all while fostering the development of a comprehensive ecosystem.

This event was dedicated to the intersection of artificial intelligence and the metal-forming industry, bringing together stakeholders from industry, government, academia, and research sectors. Notable attendees include Deputy Minister Lin Yi-Jing (林宜敬次長)of the Ministry of Digital Development, Deputy Director-General Chen Hui-Min(陳慧敏副署長) of the Administration for Digital Industries, and Deputy Secretary-Vice General Lin Yu-Hong (林育鴻副秘書長)of the Taichung City Government. Additionally, representatives from the Office of Science and Technology of the National Science and Technology Council, along with representatives from 37 metal forming industry operators, 17 AI service and automation technology firms, and 8 related industry associations, was engaged in discussions. Esteemed experts and professors from various universities and colleges also contributed to exploring how AI technology can be strategically leveraged to enhance the metal forming industry.

Participants from the metal-forming industry who attended the matchmaking conference acknowledged the pressing structural challenges currently facing the sector, particularly concerning labor shortages. While there is a general recognition of the importance of integrating artificial intelligence (AI) into their operations, many attendees expressed uncertainty regarding which AI solutions would effectively address the specific needs of the industry. In response to this concern, the event featured an "AI Application Demo Day," where eight companies specializing in AI services and automation technologies showcased innovative applications. These demonstrations provided a detailed analysis of how AI can effectively tackle prominent pain points within the metal-forming industry through real-world case studies. For example, the implementation of AI-driven inspections on factory facilities facilitates the real-time detection of abnormalities, thereby enhancing both inspection accuracy and operational efficiency. Furthermore, by integrating AI principles with drawings and textual data, participants can construct a knowledge graph that synthesizes design drawings, enabling swift access to product-related quotations, processes, and design optimization strategies. This practical approach offers valuable insights and solutions tailored to the industry's requirements.
 
In the future, the Ministry of Digital Affairs will continue to implement this matching mechanism to improve collaboration among industry stakeholders, jointly explore opportunities in international markets, and enhance the global competitiveness of Taiwan's industries.