ISLAMABAD (PEN) : As China accelerates its development in humanoid robots, the World Robot Conference in Beijing showcased a range of affordable and innovative components, though some experts cautioned that the industry still faces challenges with product reliability.
Wisson Technology (Shenzhen) has introduced an intriguing approach to robotics. Instead of relying on traditional motors and reducers, which are standard in the industry, Wisson uses 3D-printed plastics and pneumatic artificial muscles to power its flexible robotic arms. This novel method significantly reduces costs, allowing them to offer their robotic arms at roughly one-tenth the price of conventional models. Cao Wei, an investor from Lanchi Ventures, highlighted that Wisson’s flexible arms could be integrated into humanoid robots, though specific details about international collaborations were not disclosed.
Yi Gang, the founder of Ti5 Robot in Shanghai, pointed out that while advancements are being made, the robotics supply chain still struggles with issues of product reliability. Yi mentioned that due to defects, his company is currently limited to producing only up to 1,000 units at a time, with harmonic gears being a particular challenge.
China’s push in robotics is part of President Xi Jinping’s broader strategy to foster “new productive forces” in technology, a theme prominently featured in the conference’s promotional materials. As the world’s largest market for industrial robots, China is seeing rapid evolution in sectors such as manufacturing, automotive, agriculture, education, and healthcare.
Gao Jiyang, who founded Galaxea AI after his role at Momenta, noted that advancements in autonomous driving are also spurring progress in robotics. “Autonomous driving represents AI combined with vehicles, which are essentially robots,” Gao explained.
At the close of the conference, Premier Li Qiang emphasized the importance of following President Xi’s guidelines and recognizing the robot industry’s vast potential. Li described robots as a key indicator of technological innovation and advanced manufacturing, urging for continued efforts to stabilize the supply chain and advance on the global stage.
China’s leadership in industrial robot installations, accounting for more than half of the global total in 2022, underscores its growing influence in the field.
