Humanoid robots and their challenges are highlighted at a global conference in China

As China seeks to advance the development of humanoid robots and supply chains showcase cheaper, more innovative parts at the world robot conference in Beijing, some executives warn that the industry still needs to improve the reliability of its products.

Wisson Technology, known for its flexible robotic manipulators, doesn’t rely on motors and gear units — transmission devices commonly used in robotics. Instead, it uses 3D-printed plastics and pneumatic artificial muscles in its robots.

This cheaper form of production allows the company’s flexible arms to be priced at about a tenth of what traditional robotic arms cost, said Cao Wei, an investor in Wisson through venture capital firm Lanchi Ventures, where he is a partner.

The flexible technology will usher in robotic arms at a cost of about 10,000 yuan (about $1,700), Wisson says on its website.

“The malleable arms [da Wisson] can be used on humanoids,” Cao said, adding that the company has already provided samples to foreign companies that manufacture humanoid robots.

Yi Gang, founder of Shanghai-based Ti5 Robot, a company specializing in integrated joints, highlighted some of the problems he sees in the robotics supply chain.

“The entire supply chain still needs to address product reliability issues,” Yi said, adding that due to defect rates, his company can only manufacture products in volumes of up to 1,000 units.

Harmonic gearing, which refers to machinery that plays a key role in motion control, was a key issue, he said.

China’s robotics push is underpinned by President Xi Jinping’s policy of developing “new productive forces” in technology — a point highlighted in handouts from last week’s event.

Across China, the world’s largest market for industrial robots, increasingly sophisticated technology is changing the face of traditional sectors such as manufacturing, automobiles, agriculture, education, as well as healthcare and home services.

Gao Jiyang, previously chairman of Chinese autonomous driving startup Momenta before founding Galaxea AI, a startup focused on robot hardware and embedded AI, said the rise of intelligent driving is leading to advances in robotics.

“Autonomous driving means AI cars, which are also a type of robot,” Gao said.

Closing the conference on Sunday (25), Chinese Premier Li Qiang said it is crucial to implement President Xi’s guidelines on the importance of the robot sector.

“The robot industry has broad prospects and huge market potential,” Li said, according to China’s official Xinhua News Agency.

Describing robots as an “important parameter for technical innovation and high-end manufacturing strength,” Li called for efforts to maintain supply chain stability and progress on the international stage.

“It is necessary (…) to promote the expansion and popularization of robots in various fields, such as industry, agriculture and the service sector,” he said.

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This content was originally published in Humanoid robots and their challenges are highlighted at a world conference in China on the CNN Brasil website.

Source: CNN Brasil

Charles

Charles Grill is a tech-savvy writer with over 3 years of experience in the field. He writes on a variety of technology-related topics and has a strong focus on the latest advancements in the industry. He is connected with several online news websites and is currently contributing to a technology-focused platform.