Leveraging AI for Smart Manufacturing in SMEs

This APO P-Talk explores how AI is empowering small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) to embrace smart manufacturing and overcome traditional operational challenges. This insightful discussion is led by Dr. Hui-Yi Fan, a distinguished expert in AI and digital transformation with extensive experience in AI-driven business strategies, predictive modeling, and industrial policy development.

This session highlights the applications of AI in SMEs, showcasing how predictive maintenance, AI-powered quality control, and smart supply chain management are revolutionizing factory operations. Drawing from real-world case studies, Dr. Fan describes the tangible benefits of AI adoption for efficiency, cost reduction, and quality improvement.
This P-talk also delves into the core AI technologies enabling smart manufacturing, including machine learning, computer vision, IoT, and edge computing. Dr. Fan simplifies AI concepts using relatable analogies, such as AI acting as a “digital employee” that tirelessly monitors and optimizes manufacturing processes.

The session addresses key challenges SMEs face, including cost, data management, and skill shortages, offering insights and actionable solutions to these hurdles. Additionally, Dr. Fan highlights the role of government policies supporting AI-driven innovation among SMEs.

Concluding with emerging trends, Dr. Fan encourages SMEs to start with small-scale AI projects, gradually expanding their capabilities to embrace smart manufacturing and remain globally competitive.

Please click here to watch.

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For any inquiries, please write to: p-talk@apo-tokyo.org.