Schaeffler opens humanoid robot assembly factory in China

Schaeffler has opened a new Lighthouse Factory in Taicang, China, featuring a production line where humanoid robots assemble components for other humanoid robots. This facility establishes what the company describes as a “closed loop” manufacturing cycle.

The factory spans approximately 7,500 square meters and integrates an assembly line with a training and data collection center, a digital twin platform, and a data center. The primary goal is to test the use of humanoid robots under real-world manufacturing conditions while beginning the mass production of essential components.

These components include linear and rotary actuators, which are the drive units responsible for generating the straight-line and rotational movements required for robotic limbs and joints. In addition to assembly, the robots are tasked with sorting, testing, labeling, and packaging parts.