China Robots Conference Highlights Evolving Humanoids

Humanoids

China is making significant strides in humanoid robot development, and this ambition was on full display at the World Robot Conference in Beijing.

The event highlighted not only the technological advancements in robotics but also the emerging challenges within the industry, particularly in terms of product reliability.

One of the standout companies at the conference was Wisson Technology, a Shenzhen-based firm known for its innovative approach to robotic manipulators. Unlike traditional robotics, which rely heavily on motors and reducers—essential components in transmission devices—Wisson has pioneered the use of 3D-printed plastics and pneumatic artificial muscles to power its robots.

This innovative method of production has dramatically reduced costs, allowing Wisson to price its flexible robotic arms at about one-tenth of the cost of traditional robotic arms.

Cao Wei, a partner at venture capital firm Lanchi Ventures and an investor in Wisson, emphasized the significance of this cost reduction. According to Wisson’s website, these pliable robotic arms could be sold for as low as 10,000 yuan (approximately $1,404).

Cao also noted that Wisson’s pliable arms have potential applications in humanoid robots. The company has already provided samples to overseas manufacturers of humanoid robots, though specific details were not disclosed.

Despite these advancements, some industry leaders expressed concerns about the current state of the robotics supply chain. Yi Gang, founder of Shanghai-based Ti5 Robot, which specializes in integrated joints, pointed out that product reliability remains a significant issue.

He revealed that due to high defect rates, his company is only able to produce up to 1,000 units at a time. Yi specifically highlighted problems with harmonic gears, a critical component in motion-control machinery, as a key challenge that needs to be addressed within the supply chain.

China’s push in robotics is heavily supported by President Xi Jinping’s policy of developing “new productive forces” in technology. This policy was prominently featured in promotional materials at the conference.

As the world’s largest market for industrial robots, China is witnessing the rapid integration of advanced robotics into traditional industries such as manufacturing, automotive, agriculture, education, and healthcare.

The increasingly sophisticated technology is not only enhancing productivity but also transforming these industries at a fundamental level.

Gao Jiyang, a former executive director at Chinese autonomous driving start-up Momenta and current founder of Galaxea AI, a start-up focused on robot hardware and embodied AI, discussed the connection between autonomous driving and robotics.

He described autonomous driving as “AI-plus cars,” which are essentially a form of robot. Gao suggested that the advancements in smart driving technology are also contributing to progress in the broader field of robotics.

As the conference concluded, Premier Li Qiang emphasized the importance of adhering to President Xi’s guidelines on the development of the robot industry.

He highlighted the vast market potential and broad prospects of the robot industry, describing it as a crucial measure of technical innovation and high-end manufacturing strength.

Li called for efforts to ensure the stability of the supply chain and to enhance China’s standing on the international stage. He also underscored the need to promote the widespread adoption of robots across various sectors, including industry, agriculture, and services.

The conference served as a clear indication that China is determined to lead the world in robotics innovation, but it also underscored the challenges that must be overcome to achieve this goal.

The focus on both technological advancement and supply chain stability reflects the complexities of developing a robust and reliable robotics industry that can meet the demands of the future.