Modularization & miniaturization in connectors for robotics

by Vianie Li & Cecile de Veyra

An essential component in robotics, connectors ensure stable data and signal transmission, and power connection for normal and seamless operation of automated machines. Their performance is as critical as that of core parts such as speed reducers, servo motors and control panels.

In the Chinese mainland, the world’s largest robotics market, connectors used are mostly from companies in Japan, the US and Taiwan, the reason being that domestically made products are still considered entry-level or midrange at best. However, this will likely change as localization, with its accompanying goal of achieving greater competence to boost adoption, will accelerate in the coming years.

Developments in robotics are aligned with the overall miniaturization trend across product categories, which require smaller but still robust components. Consistent with this trend are modular industrial connectors, which can handle power, signal, optic and data signals in a compact design. This highly integrated and customizable configuration simplifies wiring and fits space-limited circuits.

In particular, connectors with more than 100 pins will attract attention in the robotics sphere, according to Chinese manufacturers interviewed by Global Sources. One such model from Ningbo Oukerui has 216 pins made of copper with silver or gold plating.

Similar product releases are forthcoming, especially as the Chinese mainland embarks on an ambitious plan to become a global innovation hub for robotics by 2025.

As reported by China Daily, the Ministry of Industry and Information Technology (MIIT) is projecting 20 percent average annual growth rate in the robotics industry’s operating income between 2021 and 2025. Key to achieving this objective is to push for greater automation in the automotive, aerospace, railway, logistics and mining sectors. The ultimate goal is to double manufacturing robot density by the end of the period, which in 2020 stood at 246 units per 10,000 people.

The Chinese mainland’s robotics market reached $12.33 billion in 2021, accounting for nearly 40 percent of the global total, according to Qianzhan Research Institute. Of this, industrial robotics represented 53 percent, service robotics 36 percent and special robotics 11 percent. Qianzhan is projecting annual growth in aggregate sales value will exceed 20 percent.

In terms of sales volume, industrial robotics in the mainland experienced a surge in 2021, posting a record-high 46.1 percent increase YoY, with the total reaching 248,000 units, according to Advanced Industrial Research Institute (GGII).

This bodes well for the connector manufacturing sector, which considers robotics a key demand driver along with electric vehicles and communications for the next two years. In addition, there remains robust demand in consumer electronics, computers and peripherals, automotive, medical and industrial applications.

Globally, the connector market will be in the scale of $112.6 billion in 2025 from $72.2 billion in 2019 or at 7.7 percent CAGR, according to QYResearch.