German motion technology specialist Schaeffler, has entered into a strategic agreement with China’s Leju Robotics Technology, to develop humanoid robots on an industrial scale.

Schaeffler says this is the first partnership it has entered into with a Chinese company and “represents an important step for Schaeffler in expanding its presence in the global humanoid ecosystem”. 

It states the aim of the partnership is to advance the use of humanoid robots in industrial applications including intelligent factory inspection, equipment operation support, logistics, and human–robot collaboration. 

Schaeffler adds it plans to integrate a mid-four-digit number of humanoids into its own production by 2035.

Schaeffler supplies key components for humanoid robots with its portfolio including rolling bearings, screw drives, and precision gears to motors, sensors, thermal management, and battery management. 

The German manufacturer says this means it meets all the requirements to produce actuators, sensors, motion control, and energy management. It adds this is complemented by in-depth expertise in 12 core manufacturing technologies from metalworking to additive manufacturing. 

Schaeffler states this combination creates “ideal conditions for merging proven industrial processes with state-of-the-art robotics” and developing solutions ready for series production.

“In addition to its traditional core business, Schaeffler is focusing specifically on new growth areas, including humanoid robotics,” explains Klaus Rosenfeld, CEO of Schaeffler. 

“With Leju Robotics, we are gaining a strong, innovative partner in one of the most dynamic growth markets for humanoids. 

“With our eight product families and decades of manufacturing excellence and innovative strength, we are excellently positioned here. The cooperation is proof that we have established ourselves as a reliable and strong partner in the global humanoid ecosystem.”

Schaeffler regional CEO for greater China, Dr Yilin Zhang, adds: “Humanoid robotics is one of Schaeffler’s strategic business areas and has enormous market potential, especially in China”.