China is accelerating its efforts in humanoid robot development, with its supply chains unveiling cost-effective and innovative components at the World Robot Conference in Beijing. However, industry experts caution that significant improvements in product reliability are still needed.
Wisson Technology, based in Shenzhen, has drawn attention with its groundbreaking approach to robotic manipulators. Unlike traditional models that rely on motors and reducers, Wisson uses 3D-printed plastics and pneumatic artificial muscles to power its robots. This innovative method has allowed the company to price its flexible robotic arms at just a fraction of the cost of conventional ones—about one-tenth, according to Cao Wei, a partner at Lanchi Ventures and investor in Wisson. The company’s pliable technology could bring the cost of robotic arms down to around 10,000 yuan ($1,404), as stated on Wisson’s website.
Cao noted that Wisson’s flexible arms could be a key component in humanoid robots, revealing that samples have already been supplied to overseas manufacturers, though he did not provide further details.
Despite these advancements, concerns remain about the reliability of China’s robotics supply chain. Yi Gang, founder of Shanghai-based Ti5 Robot, which specializes in integrated joints, highlighted ongoing issues. “The whole supply chain still needs to address issues with product reliability,” Yi said, pointing out that defect rates currently limit his company’s production to volumes of up to 1,000 units. He identified harmonic gears, crucial for motion control, as a particular area needing improvement.
China’s push in the robotics sector is aligned with President Xi Jinping’s policy of developing “new productive forces” in technology, a theme emphasized throughout the event. As the world’s largest market for industrial robots, China is leveraging increasingly sophisticated technology to revolutionize traditional industries, including manufacturing, automotive, agriculture, education, health, and home services.
Key Points
- China’s Humanoid Robot Development: China is accelerating its efforts in humanoid robot development, showcasing cost-effective and innovative components at the World Robot Conference in Beijing.
- Innovative Production by Wisson Technology: Wisson Technology (Shenzhen) uses 3D-printed plastics and pneumatic artificial muscles instead of traditional motors and reducers, significantly reducing the cost of robotic arms to about one-tenth of the usual price.
- Potential in Humanoid Robots: Wisson’s pliable robotic arms, priced at around 10,000 yuan ($1,404), have the potential to be used in humanoid robots. The company has already supplied samples to overseas manufacturers.
- Concerns Over Product Reliability: Despite advancements, industry experts, like Yi Gang from Ti5 Robot, express concerns about the reliability of China’s robotics supply chain, especially regarding harmonic gears essential for motion control.
- China’s Robotics Industry Support: The country’s robotics effort is supported by President Xi Jinping’s policy of developing “new productive forces” in technology, with robotics playing a key role in transforming traditional industries across China.
