从“高端小众”走向“普惠大众” “科技助老”成为智能制造新增长极

Core Viewpoint - The demand for health monitoring, life care, and emotional companionship through care robots is rapidly increasing, transitioning from experimental stages to real-world applications as the aging population grows [1][6]. Group 1: Industry Development - Over 50 new smart care robot products were showcased at the "Smart Future - Care Robot Conference" in Chengdu, highlighting the latest advancements in the field [1]. - The care robot industry in China is entering a phase of accelerated development, addressing the shortage of caregivers and driving upgrades across the entire industry chain [3][5]. - The implementation of the world's first international standard for care robots, led by China, is set for February 2025, which will enhance the operational framework for these technologies [4]. Group 2: Technological Innovations - A lightweight care robot with strong computational capabilities has been developed, breaking the cost barrier of traditional humanoid robots and demonstrating adaptability in complex home environments [2]. - The "AI + Smart Elderly Care Health Platform" offers a comprehensive solution for processing vast amounts of health data, shifting elderly care from passive response to proactive prevention [2][10]. - Technological integration is enhancing the functionality of care robots, with features like environmental recognition and emotional interaction being implemented in healthcare settings [3][10]. Group 3: Market Demand and Challenges - By the end of 2024, the elderly population aged 60 and above in China is projected to reach 310 million, accounting for 22% of the total population, which is driving the demand for smart care robots [6]. - Despite the positive market momentum, challenges such as high costs, complex operations, and the need for core technology breakthroughs remain significant hurdles for the industry [7]. - Current prices for mid-to-high-end care robots exceed 20,000 yuan, with some rehabilitation models surpassing 50,000 yuan, making them unaffordable for many families [7][9]. Group 4: Future Outlook - The price of basic function care robots is expected to decrease significantly by 2030, making them more accessible to ordinary households [9]. - Increased procurement of smart care robots by elderly care institutions and communities is anticipated to lower the production costs of core components, facilitating broader market adoption [10]. - The integration of advanced technologies such as AI, IoT, and 5G is expected to drive innovation and collaboration across multiple sectors, positioning the care robot industry as a new growth engine for smart manufacturing in China [10][12].