DexForce Powers Real-World Robotics with AI Brains

In a significant stride for embodied AI, Chinese startup DexForce is accelerating the commercial deployment of intelligent robots by focusing on sophisticated AI control systems rather than just hardware. Founded in 2021 and headquartered in Shenzhen, the company is pioneering a 'Sim2Real' approach, leveraging advanced simulation environments to train AI models that can then seamlessly adapt to real-world operational demands. This strategy positions DexForce as a key player in making robots truly practical for industrial and commercial applications, moving beyond the hype surrounding humanoid forms to deliver tangible utility.

The company's technological framework is built on a three-tiered system: the 'engine,' the 'brain,' and the 'body.' At its core is DexVerse, a simulation-data engine that utilizes 3D foundation models and generative AI to produce high-fidelity training data. This is complemented by the 'brain,' exemplified by their world model DexWorldModel, which imbues robots with advanced decision-making and execution capabilities. While DexForce also develops its own robotic hardware, including the DexForce W1 and DexForce W1 Pro humanoid robots, its primary innovation lies in the AI that drives them.

This innovative approach allows for rapid deployment in dynamic environments. Unlike traditional robotics that require extensive, task-specific programming, DexForce's systems integrate 3D perception via cameras with sub-millimeter precision control. This significantly reduces the time and cost associated with robot development and integration, a critical factor for manufacturers seeking agile production lines. The company has already secured substantial backing, raising hundreds of millions of yuan (tens of millions of USD) across two Series A funding rounds. Key investors include lead backers Chengdu Kechuangtou and Hongtai Aplas, alongside existing shareholders like Lenovo Capital.

DexForce is pursuing a dual commercialization strategy. One pillar involves supplying its AI models and vision sensors – essentially the 'robot brain' – to major global robot manufacturers such as ABB and KUKA. This allows existing industrial equipment to be upgraded with advanced intelligence without requiring a full hardware replacement. Prominent clients already benefiting from this technology include Chinese giants like Midea, Haier Group, Hisense Group, EV leader BYD, and electronics component maker Lens Technology.

The second strategy offers integrated solutions, combining both the robotic hardware and the AI 'brain.' Their latest humanoid robot, the DexForce W1 Pro, showcases this integration. Enhanced through AI-driven collaborative design, its optimized kinematic model and mechanical parameters have expanded its operational workspace by 75%. This allows for complex movements, such as crossing arms, and navigation in confined spaces, achieving a repetitive positioning accuracy of under 0.5mm. The robot is adaptable with various end-effectors, making it suitable for a wide range of industrial and commercial tasks.

Looking ahead, DexForce is actively expanding into the tourism and cultural sectors, planning to deploy thousands of smart robots over the next three years in partnership with various companies. Initial deployments will focus on retail applications like beverage and snack sales, with future expansion into tourist attractions, theme parks, and smart building management. This move aims to address industry challenges such as labor shortages, inconsistent service quality, and operational inefficiencies, demonstrating the broad applicability of their embodied AI solutions beyond traditional manufacturing.