International Collaboration in Medical Robotics: Okayama University Hosts Taiwanese Delegation

Advancement in Medical Robotics at Okayama University

On May 19, 2026, Okayama University, located in Okayama City, Japan, welcomed a delegation from the Industrial Technology Research Institute (ITRI) of Taiwan, along with the medical equipment manufacturer INTI Technology/Remex Medical. The group was led by CEO Chun-Nan Nelson Lin and included prominent figures such as Chief Technology Officer Iou-Sheng Danny Chang. The visit, held at the university's Tsushima Campus, focused on exchanging insights regarding the latest advancements in medical engineering technologies and monitoring the development status of various medical devices.

The delegation engaged with professors from Okayama University’s Graduate School of Environmental and Life Science, including Takayuki Matsuno and Tetsushi Kamekawa, along with Jun Sakurai from the Medical Development domain. The visit aimed to enhance the collaboration between academia and industry, breaking traditional departmental barriers.

During the exchange, the CTO of REMEX presented their innovative spinal surgery navigation system. This groundbreaking technology allows hospitals to utilize existing 2D C-arm equipment to achieve high-precision 3D navigation at a significantly lower cost and radiation exposure compared to introducing expensive new 3D imaging devices. The presentation highlighted the clinical achievements of this technology and outlined future developments, including plans for AI-assisted implant strategies and a compact robotic arm currently under development.

In addition, insights were shared by ITRI’s senior advisor, who explained the latest initiatives in Taiwan’s advanced medical technology development landscape. In response, Professor Matsuno discussed the progress and technological advancements of the “CT-guided needle puncture robot” his team is currently developing.

Following the presentations, attendees moved to a laboratory where they observed ongoing device development and had the opportunity to participate in detailed discussions about each other's systems and control technologies. This meeting marked the beginning of a promising cooperation that blends Okayama University’s strengths in robotic technology, supported by the J-PEAKS project (a regional core and distinctive research university enhancement program), with Taiwan's advanced expertise in medical device manufacturing.

The collaboration is expected to not only foster joint research projects but also enhance global technological advancements in medical robotics. Okayama University aims to continue its commitment towards building open and collaborative research environments, serving as a pivotal institution for future innovations.

Future Outlook

The insights exchanged during this visit reflect a growing interest in developing sophisticated medical devices that leverage cutting-edge technology like AI and robotics. As such collaborations unfold, they hold the potential to influence medical practices and improve patient outcomes both regionally and internationally.

We encourage the community to stay tuned for more updates on Okayama University's ongoing endeavors, including their contributions to sustainable development goals as recognized by the United Nations, reaffirming their commitment to fostering innovation through research and collaboration.

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