Nous Bot Raises ¥100M+ for Tiny Robot Actuators

A Chinese innovator in ultra-compact motion control systems, Nous Bot (also known as Nuoshi Robotics), has successfully closed a Series A funding round, amassing over 100 million yuan (approximately USD 13.8 million). This significant capital injection is set to accelerate the company's production of its groundbreaking, world's smallest planetary roller screw, a critical component for advanced humanoid robots and next-generation automotive applications.

The funding round saw robust participation from prominent investors, underscoring confidence in Nous Bot's technological edge. Leading the charge were the Shanghai Semiconductor Equipment and Materials Industry Fund and Pudong Science and Technology Innovation. Further bolstering the round were contributions from Legend Capital and Amber Capital. Strategic investments also came from automotive suppliers Pengling Co., Ltd. and Kailai Electromechanical, alongside an increased commitment from existing backer SAIC Venture Capital (part of SAIC Financial Holdings).

Established in July 2023, Nous Bot has rapidly distinguished itself by developing a 1.5mm diameter planetary roller screw, achieving C5-grade precision. This remarkable feat of engineering boasts a positioning accuracy of under 0.023mm per 300mm, a 10kg load capacity, and an impressive lifespan exceeding 3 million cycles. When paired with brushless motors and non-contact sensors, this technology forms what the company terms the world's most compact integrated micro linear electric cylinder, measuring a mere 8mm by 10.2mm. This miniaturization is crucial for the burgeoning humanoid robotics sector, where space constraints are paramount.

The performance metrics of Nous Bot's actuators significantly outperform conventional solutions. According to founder Xu Yang, their micro electric cylinders deliver four to five times more force than comparable components of similar size. Against standard ball screws, the technology offers a three to five times higher rated load capacity and a service life that is an astonishing 15 times longer. This leap in performance, coupled with a revolutionary manufacturing process that slashes production costs by an order of magnitude to under 100 yuan per unit, addresses a major bottleneck in the commercial viability of humanoid robots.

The company's leadership team brings a wealth of industry experience. Founder Xu Yang, a mechanical manufacturing expert from Tongji University, previously led R&D at Valeo Group's Asia-Pacific division. CEO Wang Xiaobin, with a background in new energy vehicle development and supply chain integration from a Valeo subsidiary, complements this expertise. Professor Xu Genlin, a distinguished technical advisor, contributes over three decades of research in thread technology across automotive, aerospace, and medical fields.

Nous Bot's innovative solutions are already finding traction. Leading domestic humanoid robot developers are integrating the 1.5mm linear joint into dexterous hands for intricate tasks like pill handling. In the automotive sphere, the company is developing roller screws for rear-wheel steering, contributing to intelligent cockpit actuators, and aims to supply chassis brake components by 2026. The company currently sees a balanced revenue split between its robotics and automotive divisions.

The newly acquired capital will be strategically deployed to expand manufacturing capacity, fuel ongoing research and development initiatives, and bolster working capital to support the company's ambitious growth trajectory in the high-precision component market.