Core Viewpoint - The article highlights the advancements in smart factories in China, particularly focusing on the "卓越级" (Excellence Level) smart factories that represent the pinnacle of intelligent manufacturing, showcasing the integration of robotics and data-driven decision-making in production processes [1][27]. Group 1: Smart Factory Features - The smart factory is categorized into four levels: basic, advanced, excellence, and pioneering, with the excellence level being the highest standard of intelligent manufacturing [1]. - The factory utilizes nearly 1,000 industrial robots across 60 highly flexible production lines, handling all six core processes of excavator production, achieving millimeter-level precision and 24-hour unmanned operation [4][26]. - The factory operates under a "black light factory" model, where robots autonomously manage material logistics and production tasks, creating a fully automated production system [4][12]. Group 2: Robotics and Automation - Industrial robots are equipped with advanced features, such as flexible mechanical arms and multiple sensors, allowing them to perform complex tasks with high accuracy and speed, reducing the need for human intervention [2][4]. - The factory has introduced humanoid robots as "apprentices," which are undergoing training to enhance their capabilities in various tasks, including sorting and assembly [10][12]. - A training facility with nearly 100 workstations has been established to facilitate large-scale data collection and skill training for humanoid robots, ensuring they can adapt to different work environments [12]. Group 3: Data-Driven Decision Making - The smart factory employs a comprehensive data-driven approach, enabling real-time monitoring and optimization of every production step, from raw material inspection to final product quality verification [19][24]. - The integration of artificial intelligence allows for intelligent decision-making throughout the entire production process, enhancing operational efficiency and product quality [29]. - The factory has achieved significant improvements, including a 20% increase in production efficiency, a 30% reduction in labor input, and a 5-day average reduction in manufacturing cycle time [26][32]. Group 4: Industry Impact - The establishment of over 230 excellence-level smart factories across China signifies a major shift towards intelligent manufacturing, covering more than 80% of major manufacturing sectors [27][31]. - These factories have demonstrated substantial improvements in product development cycles, production efficiency, defect rates, and carbon emissions, showcasing the effectiveness of smart manufacturing practices [32].