Schaeffler and VinDynamics sign strategic partnership for development and supply of innovative planetary gearboxes The deal is Schaeffler’s first-ever cooperation with a humanoid robotics manufacturer in the Asia/Pacific region Joint data collection for actuator optimization, condition monitoring and predictive maintenance is a central element of the partnership Schaeffler and VinDynamics, part of Vietnam’s Vingroup conglomerate, have agreed on a strategic partnership for humanoid robotics. The partnership centers on the development and supply of planetary gearboxes. These are central components of actuators that function as muscles and joints and enable humanoid robots to move. Under the partnership, the two companies will also jointly collect robot- and application-related data. They will use this data to help improve actuator design and performance and pave the way for future services, such as predictive maintenance. For Schaeffler, the partnership is the first arrangement of its kind with a humanoid robot manufacturer in the Asia/Pacific region. It complements the company’s existing network of partnerships with leading manufacturers in Europe, China and the US and strengthens its global position in the human robotics ecosystem. Maximilian Fiedler, Regional CEO Asia/Pacific at Schaeffler AG, says: “Pioneering applications clearly demonstrates our spirit for innovation. VinDynamics is an inspiring technology partner with a clear and ambitious vision for humanoid robotics. Our collaboration underscores Schaeffler's commitment to working alongside pioneering innovators to advance the next generation of motion technologies. By integrating Schaeffler's decades of expertise in actuator and drive technologies with VinDynamics' capabilities in developing next-generation robotic systems, we are confident that this partnership will deliver significant technological advancements and contribute to shaping how humanoid robots are deployed in the future." La Manh Hung, President of VinDynamics, says: "We are honored to collaborate with Schaeffler, one of the world’s foremost motion technology companies with a distinguished legacy of innovation and engineering excellence. This partnership represents not only a convergence of technological capabilities but also a strategic alignment of vision, as both organizations are committed to shaping the future of humanoid robotics. We believe that by combining our respective strengths, this collaboration will unlock transformative opportunities and accelerate the transition of humanoid robots from research environments to impactful real-world applications across both industrial and everyday settings." High-precision planetary gearboxes for robot joints Schaeffler is able to draw on decades of experience and a high degree of vertical integration to transfer proven solutions from its eight product families to the field of humanoid robotics. Its comprehensive portfolio of technologies for humanoid robotics includes planetary gearboxes characterized by high torque density, high efficiency, and compact design. Used as part of a highly integrated actuator system for humanoid robots, they allow precise, powerful and energy-efficient movement in robot joints.