In the current era of booming technology, the innovative application of robot technology is reshaping the industrial landscape. Recently, Dr. Zhang Jiafan, the head of ABB Robotics China Research Center, was awarded the title of "Pearl Engineer" in Pudong New Area in 2024 for his profound expertise and outstanding contributions in the field of robotics research and development. This honor is not only a high recognition of Dr. Zhang Jiafan's personal career, but also a strong affirmation of the strength of ABB's robot research and development team.
Deeply cultivating research and development, forging excellence
Since graduating with a PhD in 2009 and joining ABB, Zhang Jiafan has been dedicated to the research and development of robotics technology. At ABB Robotics China Research Center, he participated in the development of several important projects, from IRB 120 (Chinese Loong) to IRB 460, which witnessed the brilliant history of ABB China's R&D team from learning from others to going hand in hand with global teams, and then to technology feeding back the world.
During the R&D process, Dr. Zhang Jiafan not only deeply participated in the R&D and design of multiple projects, developed industrial robot design analysis processes and testing standards, but also assisted in establishing a complete R&D system, laying a solid foundation for the rapid growth and expansion of ABB Robotics China R&D Center.
Innovation leads, unleashes potential
Under the leadership of Dr. Zhang Jiafan, the ABB Robotics China Research Center team is full of innovative vitality. He deeply understands the importance of stimulating team creativity. On the one hand, he sets KPIs for new colleagues and guides them to pay attention to cutting-edge technology and industry trends; On the other hand, providing R&D personnel with independent exploration time to support them in putting their ideas into practice.
Numerous innovative achievements were born from this, and ABB robot high-speed alignment software is one of its representatives. The representative team of ABB's robot research and development department won the first prize in the 2024 Smart Integrated Manufacturing Intelligent Solution Innovation Competition, which is a strong proof of this innovative spirit.
Returning with honor, inspiring progress
In addition to the title of "Pearl Engineer" in Pudong New Area, Dr. Zhang Jiafan also won the first prize in the 2024 Shanghai Smart Integration "Smart Craftsman" Tree Selection Finals. His competition project provides a detailed introduction to how ABB robots can integrate data from the entire product chain of research and development, production, and customer service, optimize product design, and provide customers with predictive maintenance and fault diagnosis services. These achievements not only give ABB more competitive advantages in the robotics market, but also provide new ideas and directions for the development of the entire industry.
Parallel development of science and education, empowering students through education
In addition to shining brightly within the company, Dr. Zhang Jiafan also engages in education and research consulting work, maintaining close cooperation and exchanges with the academic community, and working together with multiple universities to cultivate outstanding talents in the field of new generation industrial robots.
In addition, he is also a consulting expert for the key research and development program "Deep Sea Key Technologies and Equipment" of the Ministry of Science and Technology. He has participated in important projects such as the development and sea trials of the "Jiaolong" 7000 meter manned submersible and the "Deep Sea Warrior" 4500 meter manned submersible, contributing wisdom and strength to the country's deep sea exploration cause.
Looking to the future, forging ahead with determination
When it comes to the future of the robotics industry, Dr. Zhang Jiafan believes that intelligence is the trend. Artificial intelligence technology is bringing new opportunities for the development of industrial robots. As a senior expert in the industry, he will take this award as a new starting point, continue to lead the team to deeply cultivate the field of robot research and development, constantly explore innovation, contribute more wisdom and strength to promote the development of the robot industry, and continue to write a brilliant chapter for ABB robots.
