TDK progresses materials informatics (MI) by building original AI data analysis platform

May 23, 2023

TDK Corporation (TSE 6762) has announced the development of "Aim," an original AI data analysis platform, as well as its launch for internal use in April 2023, as part of an effort to progress materials informatics (MI).

By refining its unique materials technology, TDK has accumulated data analysis technologies for material development of various products, including passive components. However, these technologies have been concentrated in individual business divisions and departments, making it difficult to be deployed throughout the company.

In recent years, MI, which utilizes AI and big data to improve the efficiency of material development, has garnered attention worldwide. TDK also started MI initiatives in 2013 and applied them to the development of magnetic and dielectric materials; the development of Aim commenced in 2018.

Aim is an original AI data analysis platform that was developed to widely deploy data analysis technologies accrued in individual departments throughout the company so that anyone can use them as well as compile high-quality data necessary for AI and big data utilization.

Since 2019, Aim has been trialed in Japan and has been used for high-speed and high-precision image analysis of materials to measure factors such as the shape and size of grains or particles in magnet materials or dielectric materials, for example. Additionally, it has been leveraged to reduce analysis time and inspection time internally, and has undergone an expansion of functions in preparation for full-scale introduction of MI throughout TDK.

With the expansion of functions such as improved data analysis and more robust databases, as well as the development of mechanisms for MI utilization, the operation of Aim in MI began in April 2023. Initially, it will be operated by research-specific divisions in Japan, but the plan is to widely deploy it at additional locations in Japan and overseas. As TDK verifies its effects through operation and testing, more efficient MI mechanisms will be developed.

TDK will promote In-house DX related to material development through the operation of Aim and other means, and by accelerating MI promotion at TDK, the company's original materials technology will continue to evolve to provide new valuable technologies and products.

TDK Corporation is a world leader in electronic solutions for the smart society based in Tokyo, Japan. Built on a foundation of material sciences mastery, TDK welcomes societal transformation by resolutely remaining at the forefront of technological evolution and deliberately "Attracting Tomorrow." It was established in 1935 to commercialize ferrite, a key material in electronic and magnetic products. TDK‘s comprehensive, innovation-driven portfolio features passive components such as ceramic, aluminum electrolytic and film capacitors, as well as magnetics, high-frequency, and piezo and protection devices. The product spectrum also includes sensors and sensor systems such as temperature and pressure, magnetic, and MEMS sensors. In addition, TDK provides power supplies and energy devices, magnetic heads and more. These products are marketed under the product brands TDK, EPCOS, InvenSense, Micronas, Tronics and TDK-Lambda. TDK focuses on demanding markets in automotive, industrial and consumer electronics, and information and communication technology. The company has a network of design and manufacturing locations and sales offices in Asia, Europe, and in North and South America. In fiscal 2023, TDK posted total sales of USD 16.1 billion and employed about 103,000 people worldwide.