At the World Robot Conference in Beijing, Chinese companies showcased innovative and affordable parts for humanoid robot development. Despite this progress, some industry executives have pointed out that product reliability still needs improvement.
Wisson Technology (Shenzhen) is known for its flexible robotic manipulators, which do not rely on traditional motors and reducers commonly used in robotics. Instead, the company uses 3D-printed plastics and pneumatic artificial muscles to power its robots.
This unconventional production method allows Wisson to price its flexible arms at about one-tenth the cost of traditional robotic arms. According to Cao Wei, an investor in Wisson through the venture capital firm Lanchi Ventures, this means that the flexible arms could be made available at a cost of around 10,000 yuan ($1,404).
Cao also mentioned that Wisson has provided samples of its pliable arms to overseas companies that manufacture humanoid robots, indicating the potential for these arms to be used in such applications.