Launch of Localization for Semiconductor Logistics Automation: MX Robotics and Daim Research Target 'OHT' Market

MX Robotics and Daim Research have entered into a strategic partnership to develop and commercialize domestic Overhead Hoist Transport (OHT) systems for the semiconductor logistics market. This collaboration aims to challenge the long-standing dominance of Japanese companies in the high-value-added semiconductor infrastructure sector by integrating advanced system design with AI-driven control technologies. The initiative is particularly significant as the demand for real-time logistics control grows alongside the expansion of advanced packaging technologies like High Bandwidth Memory (HBM).

MX Robotics and Daim Research have signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) to jointly pursue the semiconductor process logistics automation market, focusing specifically on Overhead Hoist Transport (OHT) systems. OHT technology is a critical infrastructure component used to automatically transport wafers within semiconductor production lines, representing a high-stakes market where investments for new facilities can reach hundreds of billions of won. By combining MX Robotics' expertise in OHT system design with Daim Research's AI-based control solutions, the two companies intend to provide a domestic alternative to the foreign-made systems that currently dominate the industry.

The partnership leverages the specific technical strengths of both firms to address the complexities of modern manufacturing. OHT systems require highly sophisticated automation capable of simultaneously controlling thousands of individual transport devices in real time. MX Robotics brings a long history of industrial automation experience to the venture, having supplied Automated Guided Vehicles (AGVs) and Rail Guided Vehicles (RGVs) since 2003. The company is now positioning its robotics division as a primary growth engine to meet the requirements of the burgeoning AI-based autonomous manufacturing era.

Daim Research provides the software foundation for the collaboration through its 'xMS' platform, an AI-based robot control system designed for real-time manufacturing and logistics management. Led by Professor Youngjae Jang, Director of the Manufacturing Physical AI Lab at KAIST, Daim Research has a proven track record of executing projects for major industry players such as Samsung Electronics, LG Energy Solution, SK On, and POSCO DX. This technical pedigree is expected to enhance the performance and reliability of the joint OHT solution, ensuring it meets the rigorous standards of global semiconductor manufacturers.

Moving forward, the two companies plan to focus on achieving tangible commercial results by prioritizing OHT system performance enhancement and rigorous simulation verification. Their joint strategy includes coordinated sales and marketing efforts to target the next-generation manufacturing automation market based on physical AI. This localization effort is intended to move the domestic semiconductor industry beyond a supply structure centered on foreign products, securing technological competitiveness and supply chain resilience for the South Korean robotics and automation sector.