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BEIJING: As China seeks to take the lead in developing humanoid robots, its supply chain showcased cheaper and more innovative parts at the World Robot Conference in Beijing, but some executives warned the industry has yet to improve product reliability.
Rather than relying on motors and reducers (transmission devices commonly used in robots), Vison Technology (Shenzhen) Co., Ltd., known for producing flexible robotic manipulators, uses 3D-printed plastics and relies on pneumatic artificial muscles to power its robots.
Cao Wei, a partner at Wison who invested in the company through venture capital firm Lanchi Ventures, said this lower-cost production method makes its flexible arms only one-tenth the price of traditional robotic arms.
Wisson said on its website that the bendable technology will be introduced into the robotic arm and will cost about 10,000 yuan ($1,404).
“Wisson’s flexible arms can be used in humanoid robots,” Cao said. He also said the company has provided samples to overseas companies that make humanoid robots, but he did not disclose further details.
Yi Gang, founder of Shanghai Titanium Five Robotics, a company focused on 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,” said Mr Yi, adding that his company can only produce a maximum of 1,000 units due to the high defect rate.
Harmonic gearing, which refers to machinery that plays a key role in motion control, is a critical issue, he said.
China’s robotics development is supported by President Xi Jinping’s policies Developing technology “new productivity” – This was mentioned in the event brochure last week.
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