Professor Chih-Chien Chen’s research team from the Department of Mechatronic Engineering at National Pingtung University of Science and Technology (NPUST) showcased the “AI-Assisted DNA Testing Analysis and Application Device” at the “2026 Meet Greater South” exhibition this August. Designed specifically for aquaculture environments, their device integrates biosensing, optical sensing, artificial intelligence (AI), and Internet of Things (IoT) technologies—and can be deployed directly at aquaculture sites, such as shrimp ponds, to help farmers quickly test for pathogens. The research achievement garnered widespread attention during the exhibition, attracting a French company and numerous visitors who stopped to learn more about the smart on-site testing technology.
Obtaining accurate information in a timely manner has become critical to smart aquaculture. Professor Chih-Chien Chen’s team developed this portable testing device to target Vibrio vulnificus. By utilizing a rapid nucleic acid extraction method to obtain samples, the device significantly reduces the reliance of traditional testing on large laboratory equipment. The research team further integrated an AI deep learning model for image interpretation. Experiments have confirmed that the model achieves an accuracy of 0.953 and a recall rate of 0.972, which not only effectively minimizes the impact of ambient lighting and human interpretation discrepancies, but also enhances the consistency and stability of test results. Furthermore, the system connects the cloud with mobile devices to create an integrated smart model of “on-site sampling, rapid testing, AI interpretation, cloud analysis, and mobile management,” enabling users to instantly view fluorescence variation data and analysis charts via a mobile app right at the aquaculture site.
Professor Chih-Chien Chen noted that by attending the “2026 Meet Greater South” exhibition, they were able to showcase NPUST’s research achievements in the fields of bio-mechatronic integration and smart agricultural technology. Through exchanges with visitors from domestic and international companies, the team gained a deeper understanding of industry demands for on-site rapid testing, AI interpretation, and smart aquaculture applications. The research team will continue to optimize the device’s portability, testing speed, AI interpretation capabilities, and cloud data management functions, while gradually expanding the detection range to other crucial pathogens affecting aquaculture and agriculture. NPUST is bridging the gap between laboratory research and practical aquaculture by deploying advanced precision testing technologies directly into real-world settings. Through cross-disciplinary innovation spanning bio-mechatronics, artificial intelligence, and digital systems, the university continues to empower the industry with smart monitoring, real-time data tracking, and precision management solutions.
