There are 12 key locations on the humanoid robot that require bearings. These bearings move in coordination with each other, allowing the humanoid robot to imitate humans to complete many efficient and precise movements. Due to the different loads and space sizes of each joint of the robot, the types of bearings used are also different. It is not an easy task for purchasers to ensure the accurate supply of humanoid robot kits. Procuring a wide variety of bearings alone is a considerable challenge.
As one of the few full-range bearing suppliers in the humanoid robot industry, bearing manufacturer VKUKEN has summed up some experience in serving customers and summarized these experiences into a purchasing guide, aiming to provide a comprehensive approach for purchasers. This guide focuses on the key points to consider when selecting a bearing supplier, managing important factors such as after-sales service, cost, delivery time and supply chain support, and how to establish a strong partnership to ensure long-term success.
1. Key Considerations When Selecting a Bearing Supplier
a. Comprehensive Product Range
– Why It Matters: Humanoid robots require various types of bearings, including ball bearings, roller bearings, angular contact bearings, needle bearings, and more. Managing multiple suppliers for each type increases administrative workload and complicates logistics.
– What to Look For: Choose suppliers that offer a broad product range and can fulfill all bearing requirements for humanoid robots, from large slewing bearings for hips to miniature bearings for fingers. A one-stop supplier simplifies purchasing and improves supply chain efficiency.
b. Product Quality Assurance
– Why It Matters: Bearings in humanoid robots operate under high precision and load conditions. Inferior quality can result in premature failure, increased maintenance costs, and operational downtime.
– What to Look For: Ensure suppliers provide internationally recognized certifications, such as ISO 9001 for quality management, and can deliver detailed inspection reports and test data for their products. Conduct sample testing before large-scale procurement.
c. Cost and Value
– Why It Matters: While price is important, prioritizing cost over quality can lead to higher expenses in the long term due to increased maintenance and replacements.
– What to Look For: Opt for suppliers who provide competitive pricing without compromising quality. Seek a balance between cost and value-added services, such as customized solutions and technical support.
d. Delivery Time and Supply Chain Reliability
– Why It Matters: Delayed shipments can disrupt the production schedule of humanoid robots. Efficient logistics are crucial to avoid costly downtime.
– What to Look For: Partner with suppliers who have a track record of timely delivery and a robust supply chain to manage inventory fluctuations. Establish clear delivery terms in the contract.
e. After-Sales Service
– Why It Matters: Post-purchase support, such as troubleshooting, warranty handling, and replacement services, ensures smooth operations and reduces downtime.
– What to Look For: Evaluate the supplier’s commitment to after-sales support, including their responsiveness to issues, warranty policies, and technical assistance.
f. Technical Expertise and Support
– Why It Matters: Bearings are highly specialized components, and selecting the right one often requires technical guidance.
– What to Look For: Choose suppliers with a strong engineering team who can offer advice on bearing selection, custom designs, and maintenance best practices.
g. Customization Capabilities
– Why It Matters: Some humanoid robot applications may require bespoke bearing designs to fit unique specifications.
– What to Look For: Ensure the supplier has the capability to produce customized bearings and can accommodate specific requirements such as size, material, or load capacity.
2. Maintain Smooth Communication with Suppliers
Establishing clear, open, and regular communication with suppliers is vital to ensuring a smooth procurement process.
– Set Expectations Early: Clearly outline requirements such as product specifications, delivery schedules, and payment terms in writing.
– Leverage Technology: Use supply chain management tools and collaborative platforms to track orders, share documents, and address issues in real time.
– Schedule Regular Updates: Conduct periodic meetings or reviews with the supplier to evaluate performance, discuss upcoming needs, and resolve potential issues.
– Build a Relationship: Treat suppliers as partners rather than mere vendors. Building trust and mutual respect fosters better collaboration.
3. Building a Strong Partnership with Suppliers
A strong, cooperative relationship with bearing suppliers can lead to long-term benefits, including improved pricing, priority access to inventory, and proactive problem-solving.
a. Recognize and Reward Good Performance
– Provide positive feedback and, if possible, reward suppliers who consistently meet expectations with repeat business or preferred supplier status.
b. Collaborate on Forecasting and Planning
– Share production forecasts and work collaboratively on demand planning to help suppliers manage inventory and production schedules effectively.
c. Foster Transparency
– Maintain transparency in business dealings, such as payment terms and volume commitments, to build trust and avoid misunderstandings.
d. Visit suppliers
– Visit bearing suppliers from time to time. Through field visits, we can understand important information such as supplier equipment updates, company operating conditions, and the latest production processes. This information plays an important role in purchasing, promoting or eliminating suppliers.
e. Develop a Long-Term Vision
– Approach the supplier relationship with a long-term perspective, encouraging innovation, continuous improvement, and mutual growth.
In another article of mine, I explained in detail the technical data on how to select bearings for humanoid robots. Purchasers can read the following article for reference.
Conclusion
Purchasing bearings for humanoid robots requires careful evaluation not only of the components themselves but also of the suppliers. By selecting a supplier with a comprehensive product range, strong quality assurance, and robust after-sales support, purchasing personnel can ensure a streamlined process and minimize potential issues. Establishing strong communication and fostering a collaborative partnership with suppliers will not only simplify procurement but also contribute to the long-term success of your humanoid robot projects. In addition, continuous learning is also an indispensable skill for purchasing personnel.
