Spatial AI: The Bridge Between Digital Intelligence and the Physical World
Date: Wedn Oct 15, 2025 6:30 - 8:30 PM, at ITRI 2880 Zanker Suite 103. Seminar talk will start at 7PM.
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https://us02web.zoom.us/j/88986379993?pwd=i7YIAPlPAeAqq8VCZehjYKJL3IA0aX.1
Meeting ID: 889 8637 9993
Passcode: 004962
Seminar Talk “Spatial AI: The Bridge Between Digital Intelligence and the Physical World” By Dr. William Kao
Talk Abstract:
So far Generative AI has amazed us with its ability to create impressive images and text, but it can only process 2D data.
The next wave of AI (Spatial AI) will move beyond flat dimensions, requiring systems capable of understanding and navigating complex 3D environments.
Spatial AI allows machines to perceive, interpret depth, distance and understand spatial relationships. This shift will depend on advanced models coupled with a tidal wave of high-quality 3D data, critical for effective training.
Spatial AI (SAI) is a new emerging field that combines artificial intelligence with spatial computing (geometry, localization, mapping). With Spatial AI, machines and systems gain the ability to navigate and map environments in real time, avoid collisions and optimize movement, track people or equipment with high accuracy, and respond dynamically to changing surroundings
Dr, Kao will discuss key SAI components such as computer vision, SLAM (Simultaneous Localization and Mapping), sensor fusion, and deep learning.
The talk will also address Spatial AI applications for modern intelligent systems, especially in domains like robotics, autonomous vehicles, AR/VR, and smart environments.
Technical challenges will be discussed, along with a forward-looking perspective on how Spatial AI is set to transform industries and reshape our interaction with machines in the physical world.
Speaker Bio:
Dr. William Kao received his BSEE, MSEE and PhD from the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign. He worked in the Semiconductor and Electronic Design Automation industries for more than 30 years holding several senior and Executive engineering management positions at Texas Instruments, Xerox Corporation, and Cadence Design Systems.
Dr. Kao has authored more than 40 technical papers on IC CAD at IEEE Journals and Conferences and holds eight US software and IC design patents. He was an Adjunct Professor at UCLA Electrical Engineering Department where he taught courses in computer aided IC design.
Dr. Kao is a Senior Member of IEEE and was one of the founding members of IEEE-Circuits and Systems - Silicon Valley Chapter.
Dr. Kao regularly teaches Clean Technology and Emerging Technology courses at the University of California Santa Cruz, Silicon Valley Extension.