At this year’s World Robot Conference (WRC) in Beijing, the spotlight shifted from factories to hospitals. Robots once known for industrial strength are now emerging as health guardians. From guiding the visually impaired to assisting in surgery and rehabilitation, healthcare robotics is stepping into everyday life.
Guiding the Visually Impaired
One of the standout WRC demonstrations was a six-legged robotic guide dog. With three legs always on the ground, it offers unmatched balance and safety. Lidar and AI sensors help it read traffic signals, detect hazards, and follow voice commands. Already tested at airports in Beijing and Shanghai, this robot is proving how machines can restore independence for the visually impaired.
Precision in the Operating Room
Robotic surgery also took center stage. In May, a 66-year-old patient in Beijing received a knee replacement with support from the ROPA surgical robot. The procedure lasted just 30 minutes, with the patient walking the same day.
The ROPA system builds a 3D model of the patient’s bones, plans the surgery, and executes it with pinpoint accuracy. By reducing blood loss and recovery time, it benefits both patients and hospitals. More than 1,000 hospitals in China now use AI-assisted surgical systems, showing rapid adoption across the country.
Rehabilitation Reinvented
WRC also showcased rehabilitation technology. Therapy robots from Shenzhen Deyeemed Medtech scan the body, locate acupoints, and deliver massage treatments such as kneading and tapping. Exoskeleton robots are helping patients relearn walking with natural strides, providing new hope for people with mobility challenges. Together, these solutions are shortening recovery times and improving patient outcomes.
ROI: The Business of Healthcare Robotics
Healthcare robotics is not only advancing medicine but also creating strong returns. China’s surgical robot market surpassed 10 billion yuan ($1.4 billion) in 2024, with domestic suppliers capturing nearly half the share. Hospitals are investing because robots reduce operation times, ease staff workload, and improve patient turnover. For investors and providers, the sector offers both cost savings and high growth potential.
Explore Robotics with Mendy’s
At Mendy’s, we follow how events like the WRC showcase the next wave of robotics. From industrial tools to healthcare guardians, robots are transforming how the world works.
If you want to explore robotics for your organization, book a consultation with Mendy’s. We help leaders evaluate solutions, calculate ROI, and prepare for adoption. You can also suggest technologies for us to cover in future articles.
Robots are no longer limited to factories. They are stepping into healthcare as vital partners—and Mendy’s is here to guide the journey.
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