A visit to Xenon in Suzhou

Against the backdrop of the global dynamics of AI-driven industrial automation, a dialog between science and industry took place at Xenon Automation Technology in Suzhou on November 8, 2025. Led by Michael Färber, Professor of Scalable Software Architectures for Data Analytics at TU Dresden/ScaDS.AI, the delegation visited Xenon's production facility and held in-depth discussions on how AI technologies can overcome key challenges in manufacturing automation.

In the production facility, the visitors were able to observe the entire process from precision assembly to intelligent inspection. Technology expert Martin Schiffner and his team are driving the "AI + smart manufacturing" strategy at Xenon by integrating AI into key stages of production and quality control. "This project is closely aligned with the ScaDS.AI research agenda," explained Prof. Färber.

In a subsequent discussion, key automation scenarios were considered and ideas exchanged on how AI can improve efficiency, reliability and collaboration between humans and machines. "AI is not a replacement for humans, but rather enhances human capabilities," emphasized Prof. Färber. "Our aim is to free engineers from repetitive tasks so that they can focus on higher-value innovations." Tingting Hu, General Manager of Xenon (Suzhou), added: "With the academic strength of ScaDS.AI and the industrial experience of Xenon, we complement each other perfectly. We look forward to turning advanced AI technologies into real productivity."

The meeting provided a valuable platform for combining academic research and industrial practice and underlined ScaDS.AI's commitment to promoting AI applications in various fields. It took place as part of the visit of Saxon representatives from politics and business to Wuhan, Shanghai, Suzhou, which aims to strengthen existing economic relations and support Saxon entrepreneurs in establishing new economic contacts.