The global medical device market is projected to reach $514 billion by 2020, with a compound annual growth rate of 5% between 2013 and 2020. In the same period, global investment in medical device R&D is expected to reach $30.5 billion, growing at an annual rate of approximately 4.2%. As the field evolves, the direction of medical devices is shifting toward greater intelligence, driven by continuous R&D efforts. Among these innovations, medical robots are seen as the ultimate form of intelligent medical technology, and their share in the overall market is expected to grow significantly.
North America remains the largest market for medical devices, but there is a noticeable shift in focus toward Asia, where demand is rising rapidly. This trend reflects both economic development and increasing healthcare needs across the region.
At the CCF·GAIR Global Artificial Intelligence and Robotics Summit in August 2016, Professor Wang Tianmiao delivered a keynote speech titled “Thinking about the Development of Robots—Academic Industry to Industry.†During the event, he also shared insights on the growing interest in medical robots, highlighting their potential impact on healthcare.
From Academia to Industry
When transitioning from academic research to industrial application, where do you see robotics making the most immediate impact?
Professor Wang Tianmiao pointed out that rising labor costs and increasing land rental expenses could be key drivers for companies to adopt robotics. Currently, high-end robots in China are mostly imported, while low-end industrial robots used in manufacturing, polishing, injection molding, and logistics are becoming more localized. Looking ahead, he predicts that robot assistants, chatbots, and companion robots will soon appear in banks, homes, hotels, and hospitals, and these developments are likely to be confirmed within the next five years.
Challenges in Medical Robot Development
A journalist asked whether there are any bottlenecks in the transition of medical robots from academic research to industry applications.
Professor Wang explained that the main difference between medical robots and other types of robots lies in the fact that they directly affect life and health, which requires strict safety standards, including certification and clinical trials. These processes are time-consuming and slow down the development cycle, posing significant challenges for the advancement of medical robotics.
Academic vs. Industrial R&D Approaches
Given these challenges, what are the differences in research and development approaches between academia and industry?
According to Professor Wang, academic research typically starts with a complete system, setting clear goals and implementing safety controls. In contrast, industrial applications often focus on specific areas, such as orthopedics or pediatrics, due to practical constraints and resource limitations.
Current Examples of Mature Medical Robots
Which medical robots are currently well-established in the industry?
Professor Wang highlighted several examples: the Da Vinci Surgical Robot from the U.S., the Rewalk exoskeleton from Israel, and the ROSA brain robot from France. Domestically, Tianzhihang, which specializes in orthopedic surgery, has gained recognition and is listed on the New Third Board. Their products have been used in hospitals like Jishuitan Hospital in Beijing.
Da Vinci Surgical Robot
The Da Vinci robotic surgical system is considered one of the most advanced robotic surgical assistants. Developed by Intuitive Surgical Inc., it represents a new generation of minimally invasive techniques. It combines intelligent robotic arms with high-definition 3D imaging systems, integrating multiple disciplines to achieve minimally invasive, functional, and intelligent surgeries. The system consists of three parts: the surgeon's console, the bedside robotic system, and the imaging system.
ReWalk Exoskeleton
ReWalk, developed by Israeli company Rewalk Robotics, is designed to restore mobility for patients with lower limb paralysis. Its personal version, ReWalk Personal 6.0, is lighter, faster, and more comfortable than previous models, allowing users to stand, walk, and climb stairs. It uses sensors and gravity detection to adjust movement naturally, improving user experience.
ROSA Brain Robot
ROSA, developed by Medtech SA in France, is a leading surgical robot used in neurosurgery. It has been approved in multiple countries, including the U.S., Europe, and China. The system is widely used in top neurosurgical centers around the world, including the Cleveland Clinic and Massachusetts General Hospital.
Tianzhihang
Specializing in orthopedic surgery, Tianzhihang has developed China’s first independently owned medical robot product. Its technology originated from a joint project between Beijing University of Aeronautics and Astronautics and Beijing Jishuitan Hospital. Since obtaining its license in 2010, the company has been widely adopted in various hospitals across China.
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