Yang Shi Wang·2026-01-12 13:37Core Viewpoint - Smart manufacturing is identified as the core engine for high-quality development in the manufacturing industry, marking a significant transition from digitalization and networking to intelligent manufacturing in China [1][15]. Group 1: Overview of Smart Factories - The Ministry of Industry and Information Technology, along with five other departments, announced the first batch of 15 leading smart factories, covering key industries such as equipment manufacturing, raw materials, and electronic information [1][3]. - These leading factories represent the highest level of intelligent manufacturing in China and showcase a broad and deep development of smart manufacturing across various regions [1][3]. - The four-tier system for smart factory cultivation includes foundational, advanced, excellent, and leading levels, with specific requirements for each tier [3]. Group 2: Key Elements of Leading Smart Factories - To qualify as a leading smart factory, six key elements are required: industry leadership, AI technology application, innovative smart manufacturing models, performance leadership, replication leadership, and nurturing plans [3][5]. - Longfei Optical Fiber exemplifies an industry leader by integrating AI throughout its production process, achieving a pulling speed of 3,500 meters per minute with no human intervention [5][6]. - Weichai Power demonstrates performance leadership by reducing maintenance costs by 30% through its engine health management system, showcasing the effectiveness of its smart manufacturing practices [10]. Group 3: Future Manufacturing Models - The exploration of leading smart factories aims to create a flexible and efficient supply network capable of high customization and rapid iteration in production [8][16]. - Baosteel is innovating with AI-driven predictive manufacturing, moving away from traditional order-based production to proactively managing supply chains and production resources [11][13]. - The establishment of at least 1,200 AI scenarios and 25 benchmark production lines by Baosteel by 2027 reflects a commitment to integrating AI into manufacturing processes [13]. Group 4: Systemic Transformation in Manufacturing - The emergence of the first batch of leading smart factories signifies a systemic transformation in China's manufacturing sector, with a focus on technological breakthroughs, efficiency improvements, and green transitions [16]. - The experiences and models developed by these leading factories are expected to be replicable and promote the digital transformation of more manufacturing enterprises [16].