In context
In early 2023, adaptive robotics—robots capable of force control and human-like dexterity—was gaining traction in manufacturing and logistics, yet market reach remained limited by regional integration capabilities. This partnership highlighted a growing trend of robot makers aligning with local integrators to accelerate deployment and support.
What was reported
Flexiv, a maker of general-purpose robotics solutions, announced a partnership with Handplus Robotics, a Singapore-based automation integrator established in 2018. Handplus specializes in automating logistics and manufacturing lines and will install and commission Flexiv's range of seven-axis force-controlled robots.
With demand for Flexiv's solutions growing year-on-year, Handplus's established distribution network in Singapore and Malaysia will help Flexiv serve an expanding customer base. Flexiv's partner network has grown rapidly over the past two years, now featuring partners worldwide.
Owen Wu, Flexiv's senior sales manager for Asia Pacific, noted the partnership will enable more end-users to adopt adaptive robotic technology, expand market presence without compromising service, and create customized smart solutions that reduce labor bottlenecks and shorten ROI periods. Albert Causo, CEO and founder of Handplus, emphasized that Flexiv's seventh axis and force control capabilities open new possibilities for applications requiring sensitivity and fast response times.
“If robots are to be used for tasks which require human-like dexterity and sensitivity, Flexiv has the robots to do it.”
Why it mattered
This collaboration underscored the importance of regional integrators in scaling advanced robotics beyond core markets. By combining Flexiv's adaptive robot technology with Handplus's local expertise, the partnership aimed to make human-like automation more accessible in Southeast Asia, potentially accelerating adoption in industries facing labor shortages and complex assembly tasks.
Source: Robotics & Automation News (roboticsandautomationnews.com) · Published 2023-01-22 · “Flexiv partners with Handplus Robotics to offer new robotic solutions”