Asahi Kasei Corporation 旭化成株式会社
Japanese multinational conglomerate operating in materials, homes, and healthcare, including electronics components and medical devices.
Asahi Kasei Corporation is a diversified Japanese industrial conglomerate founded in 1931 and headquartered in Chiyoda, Tokyo. The company operates across three core segments: Materials (chemicals, fibers, electronics), Homes (construction, remodeling), and Health Care (pharmaceuticals, medical devices, diagnostics). Its electronics business supplies specialty materials and components used in semiconductors and battery separators.
Asahi Kasei acquired Zoll Medical in 2012 to expand its acute critical care portfolio. The company employs approximately 47,000 people globally, with operations across Asia, Europe, and North America. Revenue exceeds USD 20 billion on a trailing-twelve-month basis as of 2026.
Primary type & automation activities this supplier delivers:
Hipore Battery Separator
Polyethylene microporous membrane separator for lithium-ion batteries used in EVs and energy storage.
Contact Asahi Kasei Corporation
WEBSITE
https://www.asahi-kasei.comPHONE
+81-(0)3-6699-3000 9HEADQUARTERS
Japan
Company Facts
Founded
1931
Primary Role
Manufacturer
Company Size
-
Primary Region
Asia-Pacific
Annual Sales
-
Funding Stage
-
Funding Total
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Impact of Task Complexity on Skill Retention in Surgical Robot Teleoperation Training
A recent study has revealed the influence of task complexity on skill retention in the teleoperation of surgical robots. This research provides a framework aimed at enhancing training methodologies for surgeons operating robotic systems. Understanding how different levels of task complexity affect surgeons' ability to retain skills is crucial for developing effective training programs. Improved training methods can lead to better surgical outcomes and increased efficiency in robotic surgeries, which is vital in the evolving landscape of medical technology. Looking ahead, the focus will be on implementing the proposed framework in surgical training programs to assess its effectiveness. No further timeline was disclosed at the time of publication.
Bionic Emotion-Sensing Humanoid Robot Demonstrates Real Tears During Interaction
A new humanoid robot has been developed that can express emotions by shedding real tears while communicating. This advancement highlights the potential for robots to engage more authentically with humans, enhancing their roles in various applications. The ability of this robot to exhibit genuine emotional responses could significantly impact industries such as healthcare and customer service, where human-like interactions are crucial. As robots become more integrated into daily life, their emotional capabilities may improve user acceptance and trust. Looking ahead, the evolution of emotion-sensing technology in robotics will be critical to watch. The implications of such advancements could reshape how robots are utilized across sectors, potentially leading to more empathetic and responsive machines. No further timeline was disclosed at the time of publication.
AI and Robotics
Healthcare Bureau Urges Caution in Surgical Robot Operations to Prevent Misuse
The installation of surgical robots in China is projected to rise significantly, with 97 units expected in 2025 and 136 in 2026, marking a 40% increase. The market size is anticipated to grow from 3.9 billion to 4.4 billion. Notably, domestic systems have surpassed 41% of new installations, with prices 30-40% lower than imported models. The Healthcare Bureau convened seven manufacturers and five hospitals, emphasizing the need to avoid using surgical robots merely for show and to prevent unnecessary surgeries that could inflate costs. The core issues surrounding surgical robots are not related to pricing or insurance reimbursements, which have been addressed through new payment structures and classifications for robotic-assisted surgeries. Looking ahead, the focus should be on establishing a regular cross-brand training mechanism for surgeons, as current training is heavily influenced by the brand of the robot used. The industry must also consider the implications of the BMJ article highlighting the need for structured training paths to ensure safety and effectiveness in robotic surgeries, as the performance of these expensive tools heavily relies on the skill of the operating physician.
Surgical Robots Medical Training Healthcare Innovation Robotic Surgery Medical Devices
Chengdu's Brain-Machine Interface Strategy Focuses on Collaboration Rather Than Subsidies
As of May this year, the number of subjects for implanted brain-machine interfaces globally stands at only 107 to 110. Meanwhile, domestic financing for brain-machine interfaces exceeded 60 instances in the first half of the year, totaling over 7 billion yuan. This ratio highlights that funding does not equate to immediate clinical progress but rather future entry qualifications. Shanghai BoRuiKang received the world's first registration certificate for invasive brain-machine interfaces in March, with 36 implants and a cumulative safety record of over 14,000 days. In April, Beijing's 'BeiNai No. 1' semi-invasive system completed its first live surgery, achieving a motion intention decoding latency of less than 100 milliseconds. Chengdu's Ximang Medical has established its headquarters, and Gestalt Technology's ultrasound brain-machine interface factory began operations in June, although these companies have yet to present clinical data. Chengdu's strategy differs from Shanghai and Beijing by emphasizing daily interactions between doctors and engineers rather than merely obtaining certifications. The Western Brain Valley, a specialized building for brain-machine interfaces, has achieved a 100% occupancy rate within six months. However, no companies in Chengdu have yet received registration certificates or reported any implant surgeries, indicating that while the infrastructure is in place, clinical data remains absent.
Brain-Machine Interfaces Medical Technology Clinical Research Healthcare Innovation
Study Reveals Trust in Human-Like Robots Diminishes After Errors
A study from Drexel University indicates that the more human-like a robot is, the more it can influence people, provided it does not make mistakes. Researchers engaged 50 adult males in conversations with the humanoid robot Pepper for two and a half hours, with half interacting with an expressive version and the other half with a motionless version. When Pepper made intentional errors in the third round, participants' trust significantly declined, with influence dropping from 0.25 to 0.10 after just one mistake. The findings highlight the importance of reliability in social robots, especially in sensitive environments like hospitals and schools. While the expressive Pepper initially fostered a stronger connection, errors led to a more pronounced loss of trust compared to the motionless version. The study also recorded participants' brain activity, revealing heightened responses to social norm violations when interacting with the expressive robot, indicating a shift from technical to interpersonal judgment. Future research will explore whether robots can regain trust through apologies or explanations after making mistakes. The study's limitations include a focus on adult males and the specific robot Pepper, but its implications stress the need for reliability in the design of social robots to prevent trust erosion after errors.
Social Robots Human-Robot Interaction Trust in AI Robotics Research
Companion Robots for the Elderly Focus on Conversation Rather Than Physical Care
Recent developments in companion robots for the elderly highlight a shift towards prioritizing conversation over physical assistance. Robots like Sandi in Barcelona and Hyodol in South Korea are designed to provide emotional support and reminders for medication and daily activities, addressing the needs of seniors facing cognitive decline and loneliness. This trend is significant as it reflects a growing recognition of the emotional and psychological needs of the elderly population. With over 3.2 billion people aged 60 and above in China and a substantial shortage of professional caregivers, the demand for supportive technologies is increasing. However, the penetration rate of professional care robots remains low, indicating a gap between need and technological adoption. Looking ahead, the challenge remains in developing robots that can perform physical tasks effectively while also providing companionship. As the demand for elderly care continues to rise, the focus on robots that foster interaction rather than just physical assistance may shape future innovations in this sector. No further timeline was disclosed at the time of publication.
Elderly Care Robots Companion Robots AI Technology Healthcare Innovation
Bee Technology Highlights Robot Trainer Role for Disabled at Service Trade Fair
On September 9, 2026, Bee Technology showcased its innovations at the China International Service Trade Fair in Beijing, focusing on the theme of empowering disabled individuals through technology. The company presented its MEgo View and MEgo Gripper products, enabling disabled users to participate in robot training and data collection, thus unlocking new employment opportunities as 'robot trainers'. This initiative is significant as it aligns with the recent announcement by the Ministry of Human Resources and Social Security, which introduced new job categories, including 'embodied intelligent robot data collector' and 'robot trainer'. The development of the embodied intelligence industry is creating new job options, allowing disabled individuals to engage in robot training without needing complex programming skills. Looking ahead, the launch of the MEgo Pai app on September 23 will enable disabled individuals to undertake data collection tasks remotely, providing them with income opportunities. Bee Technology aims to explore more data collection scenarios suitable for disabled participation, connecting data needs with employment opportunities and fostering inclusivity in the tech-driven job market.
Robot Training Assistive Technology Data Collection Employment Opportunities
Algomatic Dynamics Secures $32.5M Funding to Launch AI-Powered Robotic Hand in Japan
Algomatic Dynamics has successfully raised $32.5 million from DMM.com in its inaugural funding round, aiming to launch an AI-driven multi-fingered robotic hand platform in Japan by the end of 2026. The startup, which began operations on September 9, focuses on developing technologies for motion-data collection, robot learning, and tactile robotic hands, among others. This funding is significant as it will enable Algomatic Dynamics to invest in essential hardware and computing resources, facilitating research and development in robotics and physical AI. The company's innovative approach aims to create versatile technology applicable across various robots and environments, addressing labor shortages in critical sectors such as manufacturing and healthcare. Looking ahead, Algomatic Dynamics plans to enhance its research and development efforts while collaborating with companies and research institutions to deploy its technology in both industrial and everyday settings. The launch of the AI multi-fingered hand platform is a key milestone to watch as it could revolutionize how robots interact with the physical world.
AI AI Funding & Investment Robotics Algomatic Dynamics DMM Group funding
Understanding the 'Million Job Gap': New Professions Reflect Industry Needs, Not Easy Employment Solutions
Following the release of the eighth batch of new professions by the Ministry of Human Resources and Social Security, a narrative emerged claiming a 'million job gap' with easy entry into new roles. However, this oversimplifies the reality that these new professions are a result of industrial development rather than immediate employment opportunities. The demand for skilled professionals, particularly in fields like embodied intelligent robotics, is significant, but the majority of positions require specialized training and experience. The introduction of 11 new professions and 23 new job types highlights the shift towards digital, green, and quality service sectors. While the demand for roles such as hydrogen production workers and elderly care designers aligns with national strategies, the actual job market reveals that many of these positions require advanced qualifications. For instance, over 62% of job openings for embodied intelligent application technicians seek candidates with backgrounds in automation, electromechanics, or AI, indicating a gap in truly accessible employment for the average job seeker. As industries evolve, the emergence of new professions reflects the need for skilled labor rather than low-barrier entry points. The training infrastructure is lagging behind the creation of these roles, making it challenging for individuals to transition into these fields. No further timeline was disclosed at the time of publication.
New Professions Job Market Skills Gap Workforce Development
Humanoid Robots Enhance Mobility with AI-Driven Sprinting and Spin Kicks
Recent advancements in humanoid robots have led to the development of systems capable of sprinting and executing spin kicks, utilizing AI trained on human motion data. This progress signifies a leap in the capabilities of humanoid robots, which have traditionally been limited in their movement repertoire. The ability of humanoid robots to perform complex movements like sprinting and spin kicks is crucial for their potential application in assisting humans with manual tasks across various environments. Enhanced mobility could enable these robots to engage more effectively in real-world scenarios, thereby increasing their utility and acceptance in society. Looking ahead, the focus will likely be on further refining the movement capabilities of humanoid robots and exploring their practical applications in industries such as healthcare, logistics, and personal assistance. No further timeline was disclosed at the time of publication.
Robotics
Software, Compute and Interaction at WRC 2026
47 WRC 2026 exhibitors supply robot software, compute or interaction — but only 19 call themselves software companies. Five open artefacts, licence-checked.
WRC 2026 Core Components: 137 Robot Parts Suppliers
The third report in the WRC 2026 series. Report 1 mapped all 248 exhibitors by category and Report 2 covered the 139 that build finished robots. This one covers the 137 that build what goes inside them.
WAIC Review 1/4: Embodied AI's Industrialization Wave: Financing Data, Unit Economics, and a Widening Split
China's embodied AI sector raised $12.5B in H1 2026, but WAIC 2026 speakers detailed ROI demands, power bottlenecks, and the mass-production-to-sales gap.
WAIC Review 4/4: From Port AGVs to Hospital Night Shifts: What WAIC 2026 Reveals About Real Robot Deployments
From 530+ AGVs at a Singapore port to robots on Apple's line, WAIC 2026 speakers shared concrete data on where embodied AI robots are actually working today.
US Restrictions on Chinese Humanoid Robots: The Full Map
Every US restriction on Chinese humanoid robots — NDAA Sec. 163, GUARD Act, the 1260H list — plus the supply-chain math and a 4-tier map of decoupling.
WAIC 2026: Embodied Intelligence Enters Industrial Deployment Era
WAIC 2026 in Shanghai (July 17–20) saw 200+ embodied intelligence companies, 300+ live robots, and first confirmed humanoid deployments in logistics and pharmacy. RobotToday engineering analysis.
When a Materials Giant Meets Robotics: Covestro at Automate 2026
At Automate 2026, Covestro brought Makrolon, Bayblend, Baysafe BEF and Vulkollan to robotics — tackling weight, heat, sensing and sustainability for humanoids and AGV/AMRs.
The EV Déjà Vu: Why China's Humanoid Robot Blitz May Be Winning the Battle — but Losing the War
China controls 80% of humanoid robot shipments and crushes hardware costs. But is winning the body enough? A deep analysis of the US-China robot war beyond the EV analogy.
ROBOTTODAY Weekly June 23 – 27, 2026
This week in robotics: Agility Robotics $2.5B SPAC deal for first humanoid IPO, BMW Figure 03 logistics deployment, Morgan Stanley doubles China humanoid forecast, ON Semiconductor acquires Synaptics for $7B, Sony halts aibo in Japan. June 23–27, 2026.
Supply Chain Reckoning: Can Boston Dynamics Avoid Becoming the Next iRobot?
A data-driven analysis comparing Boston Dynamics Atlas and Tesla Optimus supply chain strategies in 2026. Examines actuator costs, production ramp speeds, and how Boston Dynamics can avoid iRobot's bankruptcy by adopting a tiered supply chain approach. Includes component cost tables, risk heat maps, and strategic frameworks.
