Driving the Future of Heavy Industry
How Advantech is Powering the Next Generation of Autonomous Equipment
In a world where intelligent machines are transforming industries at an unprecedented pace, few sectors showcase this evolution better than mining and heavy-duty construction. At the heart of this transformation is Advantech, a global leader in industrial computing, working tirelessly to redefine what industrial autonomy can achieve. At COMPUTEX, Van Lin, a key figure in Advantech’s smart machinery division, explained how intelligent, autonomous equipment is revolutionizing the industry — not just on Earth, but even eyeing possibilities beyond it.
A Legacy of Innovation: From Industrial Computing to AI-Driven Machinery
“Advantech started with industrial computers over 40 years ago,” Van explains. “Since then, we’ve evolved into the realm of IoT, AIoT, and now AIOV — the Artificial Intelligence of Vehicles. But we don’t make consumer vehicles. Our focus is on enterprise-level, intelligent, autonomous machinery.”
Advantech’s specialization includes massive, complex equipment used in ports, mining, construction, agriculture, and warehouses — all areas where smart automation can significantly boost productivity, safety, and operational efficiency. These machines must endure extreme environmental conditions and function flawlessly in some of the world’s most rugged terrains.
Digging Deep: Challenges and Innovations in Mining
Few industries present challenges as intense as mining. Whether operating underground or in remote mountain ranges, mining equipment must function under demanding conditions. “Safety is the number one concern,” Van says. “If equipment fails or poses a safety risk, the entire operation could shut down.”
With over two decades of experience in mining technology, Advantech offers comprehensive solutions that cover intelligent mine site setup — from connectivity infrastructure to smart mining vehicles. Working with leading equipment manufacturers like Komatsu, Advantech has played a key role in evolving mining vehicles from Level 2 to Level 5 autonomy.
These intelligent systems include robust communication networks (private 5G, Wi-Fi, and V2X), edge computing servers, and in-vehicle AI platforms. The goal is clear: real-time diagnostics, predictive maintenance, and eventually, full autonomy. “We envision a future where operators control machines remotely, from air-conditioned offices, even in the most treacherous conditions,” Van says.
The Path to Full Autonomy
Autonomous machinery doesn’t happen overnight. According to Van, the journey includes multiple stages:
1. Location Awareness – Knowing where the machine is at all times.
2. Health Monitoring – Understanding and predicting machine failures before they occur.
3. Remote Control – Allowing operators to manage machines without being physically present.
4. Driver Assistance – Using AI to reduce risks, manage driver behavior, and detect blind spots.
5. Full Autonomy – Machines making real-time decisions and operating independently.
Advantech enables each of these stages through a tightly integrated ecosystem that brings together AI, hardware, software, and sensor fusion. This includes LIDAR, radar, cameras, and domain-specific software that allow machines to “see,” understand, and react to their environments.
Reliability at the Edge
When operating in isolated regions far from urban infrastructure, reliability is everything. “Machines in mining can cost millions,” Van notes. “They need to run 24/7, year-round, for decades.” Advantech’s solutions are engineered for extreme durability and long-term support, with ruggedized systems and embedded modules that withstand heat, dust, and vibration.
More than just technology providers, Advantech positions itself as a long-term partner, offering not just industrial-grade computing but decades of know-how in field implementation, IM services, and global support.
A Lunar Leap: From Mountains to the Moon
Perhaps the most surprising revelation? Advantech’s involvement in a “moon mining” initiative with Komatsu. “If we can support autonomous mining equipment on the moon,” Van smiles, “then why wouldn’t we be capable of handling any autonomous project on Earth?”
It’s not a pivot into aerospace, he clarifies, but a demonstration of capability. “This project proves our systems’ robustness and versatility. It gives us a strong foundation to lead the future of autonomous industrial operations.”
From small-scale operations to massive, million-dollar machinery, Advantech is enabling a smarter, safer, and more sustainable future for heavy industry.
Final Thoughts
With decades of field experience, a robust technology stack, and a deep understanding of industry pain points, Advantech is not just participating in the age of intelligent machinery — it’s defining it. As we move into a future where autonomy isn’t optional but essential, companies like Advantech are ensuring the transition is safe, efficient, and remarkably innovative.