TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — DroneLogbook co-founder Eric Kubicka visited I-Mei Foods Co.’s factory in Taoyuan’s Longtan District on Friday, touring its food production lines, energy-saving systems, and drone facilities.

I-Mei conducted a demonstration showcasing its unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) technology, highlighting agricultural applications. Kubicka noted the potential of the company’s drones to support crop growth while also emphasizing the need for caution when using UAVs for pesticide spraying. 

Kubicka's visit included a tour of the drone and robotic dog development center. At the same time, I-Mei showcased its commercial UAV models and outlined its strategy to build a R&D facility.

I-Mei also unveiled two large drones that are under development. According to the company, the UAVs are designed for applications such as search and rescue, cargo transport, and container delivery.

During the visit, I-Mei showcased its Bong-Khang Wind Tunnel, a facility for testing UAVs under extreme weather conditions, including cold, heat, wind, and rain. The 45-meter-long, 5-meter-wide tunnel also features a track designed to test robotic dogs on challenging terrain, such as pebbles, gravel, sand, mud, and water.

Digiforen Technology Co., I-Mei’s partner, presented its chip security inspection technology for drones and their key components. Kubicka also toured the tech company's UAV cybersecurity testing laboratory and viewed a drone inspired by the design of the military-grade Switchblade, which can be launched from a firing tube.

The tour included a stop at I-Mei’s ice storage system, which features five silos ranging in height from 9 to 21 meters. The facility produces ice using off-peak electricity and stores it for use in daytime air conditioning, helping reduce energy consumption.

Kubicka also sampled I-Mei’s freeze-dried snacks and learned about the company’s vacuum freeze dryer system. The facility features a 45-meter-long, 2.5-meter-wide freezing chamber that uses low-temperature freezing, vacuum drying, and ice sublimation. This process removes most of the moisture from the food while preserving its flavor and nutrients.

I-Mei shared its history and emphasized its commitment to food safety and continued investment in modernizing its equipment. 

The company highlighted the growing ties between Taiwan and its democratic allies and hopes for further collaboration. It also noted plans for a drone development and talent training project.

Kubicka said that he was grateful for the tour and hopes to establish a partnership with I-Mei in the drone sector to help open up the US market. As the demand for drones grows, there will be a greater need for reliable maintenance services. He added that companies should adapt their business strategies to meet these conditions.

Chelpis CEO Chih Ming-yang (池明洋), another of I-Mei’s partners, gave an overview of his company’s core technologies and operations. He also hopes to collaborate with DroneLogbook on UAV development.

DroneLogbook, a Swiss-based software company, offers a cloud-based platform designed for drone documentation, maintenance, and inventory management. The company, which also has a branch in the US, helps users streamline their operations and ensure compliance with fight regulations.

* I-Mei is the parent company of Taiwan News