Analysis

Accelerating Robotic Sensing: BLT and Haptron Scientific Co-Engineer Next-Gen Optical Force Sensors

As humanoid robotics and embodied intelligence technologies rapidly advance toward industrial-scale deployment, high-performance force sensing plays a critical role in enabling compliant control, precise manipulation, and robust mobility over complex terrains. Six-axis force/torque sensors have become essential components for safe and adaptive human-robot interaction. Since 2024, Haptron Scientific and Bright Laser Technologies (BLT) have collaborated to develop a new generation of optical six-axis force sensors. By integrating Haptron Scientific’s proprietary optical multimodal sensing technology with BLT’s expertise in metal additive manufacturing, the partnership has delivered a comprehensive sensor suite—including the Photon Finger, PhotonR40, Photon Ankle, and the latest industrial-grade Photon Finger Max—targeting force measurement needs at key robotic joints such as fingers, wrists, and ankles. By utilising BLT’s metal 3D printing technology, Haptron Scientific break traditional manufacturing limits, enabling complex miniaturized designs with fewer parts and simpler assembly. This innovation supports scalable production while delivering precise, durable, and lightweight force sensors for next-gen humanoid robots—enabling safer, more dexterous, and versatile robotic platforms. Photon Finger: World’s Smallest Six-Axis Force Sensor Designing dexterous hands for humanoid robots presents unique challenges—especially at the finger joints, where space is extremely constrained. These tight dimensions demand compact, high-performance sensors with seamless integration. To address the limitations of traditional machining—such as high cost, long lead times, and low yield—Haptron Scientific developed the world’s smallest six-axis force/torque sensor, the Photon Finger, using its proprietary optical multimodal sensing technology. With the support of BLT’s PBF-LB/M BLT-A100 machine and high-performance 18Ni350 maraging steel powder, the Photon Finger was structurally optimised for integration and part count reduction through one-piece metal 3D printing. This enabled: Miniaturised design tailored for tight finger joint integration 20-minute batch production cycle, with 15–30 units printed simultaneously 50–250% improvements in force range and overload tolerance Improved signal integrity, lower in-use power consumption, and faster communication—ideal for […]

India gains trade momentum amid tariff and global supply chain shakeup

In a rapidly evolving global trade landscape, India stands out with its competitive advantage stemming from relatively lower tariff rates compared to several key trading partners. With a tariff rate of 26%, as of July 2025, which might reduce to below 20% amid speculations of a trade deal with the US, India is positioned to leverage its trade potential, particularly in sectors such as chemicals, electrical machinery, pharmaceuticals, textiles and agricultural goods, says GlobalData, a leading data and analytics company. Ramnivas Mundada, Director of Economic Research and Companies at GlobalData, comments: “India’s tariff rate is relatively lower than other countries, including China (30%), Mexico (30%), and the EU (30%). “This favorable environment not only presents a unique opportunity for Indian exporters to but also enhances the price competitiveness of Indian goods and encourages foreign investment, fostering innovation and growth. Against this backdrop, GlobalData forecasts an average growth rate of 6.5% from 2025 to 2027, positioning India to become the third-largest economy by 2027.” According to NITI Aayog, India can capitalise on 78 product categories (HS 4 codes) for exports to the US, accounting for 52% of its current exports. In the HS 2 code category, India enjoys lower tariffs than competitors in 22 of the top 30 products. This advantage arises from significant tariff hikes on goods from China, Canada, and Mexico. Although India faces slightly higher tariffs in six product categories, there remains a substantial growth potential, particularly in sectors like pharmaceuticals, textiles, and electrical machinery, enhancing India’s export competitiveness. Data from the Ministry of Commerce and Industry reveals that India’s exports to the US increased by 23.5% in June 2025 and by 22.2% from April to June 2025 compared to the same period last year. This growth has positioned the US as India’s largest trading partner for the […]

Sidel’s Beijing Plant unveils large-scale installation advancing green factory initiative

Sidel’s Beijing Plant’s rooftop solar photovoltaic (PV) system has now achieved full grid connection. Thousands of PV panels now form a blue armour-like array across the facility, gleaming under the sunlight. This milestone green energy project injects new momentum into Sidel’s sustainable operations, marking a solid step forward in the company’s decarbonisation journey and setting a new benchmark for green transformation in the industry. Solar PV system powers low-carbon operations as ‘Green Energy Hub’ launched With an installed capacity of 2.1 MW, Sidel Beijing’s solar system is expected to generate 4,394,700 kWh annually – meeting 60% of the plant’s daily operational electricity needs and reducing CO₂ emissions by 2,452 tonnes per year. Through the innovative ‘self-consumption with surplus feed-in’ model, 35% of the clean energy generated will be fed back into the municipal grid via smart power networks after fulfilling on-site demand. This enables optimised allocation and efficient utilisation of green energy, transforming every ray of sunlight into sustainable power. As a signature project to China’s ‘Dual Carbon’ strategy implementation, the installation features industry-leading LONGi Hi-MO7 high-efficiency modules with 615W panel power and a top-tier conversion efficiency of 23.1%. Multi-pronged approach to building a model green factory Since establishing operations in Beijing in 2008, Sidel Beijing Plant has embedded sustainability into its core strategy. Continuous environmental investments and innovations culminated in 2025 certifications including ISO 50001:2018 Energy Management System; ISO 14064-1:2018 Zero Carbon Factory; and GB/T 39257-2020 / GB/T 33635-2017 5-Star Green Supply Chain Management. As a Beijing-certified Green Factory, Sidel’s environmental efforts go far beyond solar energy, encompassing an intelligent Energy Management System (EMS) and Building Automation System (BAS) for precise energy control; a retrofit programme for equipment frequency conversion to reduce consumption; low-temperature distillation technology to minimise effluent from acid-wash passivation; continuous optimisation of water recycling systems […]

$2.3b AI-Focused data center for Jakarta

Jakarta, Indonesia, 17 June 2025 – EDGNEX Data Centers by DAMAC, a global digital infrastructure company backed by the DAMAC Group, a global conglomerate headquartered in Dubai, today announced the development of a next-generation AI-powered data center in Jakarta, Indonesia, its second in the market. This milestone project marks one of Southeast Asia’s largest AI-dedicated developments, with a future projected capacity of 144 MW and a total investment of $2.3 billion. Following the land acquisition completed in March 2025 by DAMAC, the site has entered early construction phases, with the facility’s phase one expected to be ready for service by December 2026. The Jakarta facility will deploy high-density AI racks, setting new benchmarks for next-generation infrastructure in the region. As a foundational asset in Indonesia’s digital journey, it will be pivotal in accelerating the country’s transition from an analogue base to a robust, AI-powered digital economy. Indonesia remains a high-potential Southeast Asian market yet faces digital infrastructure gaps, limited hyperscale readiness, and rising latency challenges. With AI adoption accelerating across sectors, this project responds to the nation’s growing demand for scalable, energy-efficient infrastructure. “This is our second project in Indonesia, and this development reinforces our commitment to bridging the digital divide in fast-growing markets across Southeast Asia (SEA), such as Indonesia,” said Hussain Sajwani, Founder of DAMAC Group. “We are proud to build what will become one of Southeast Asia’s most advanced, sustainable data centers to power the next wave of innovation and digital growth. The scale of AI workloads demands a new class of infrastructure. This project is part of our broader push across SEA, where we have committed over USD 3 billion in digital infrastructure investments to date.” The facility will target a Power Usage Effectiveness (PUE) of 1.32, significantly enhancing energy efficiencies and aligning with EDGNEX’s global […]

Building Momentum with Hyster: Koh Kock Leong’s Journey Toward Efficiency and Growth

As a major contractor in Singapore’s dynamic civil engineering and construction industry, Koh Kock Leong Enterprise (KKL) has established itself as a key player, recognized for its expertise in earthworks, cable and pipe installations, and road reinstatement projects. With a skilled team of over 1,000 employees, KKL has continually pushed the boundaries of innovation to meet the rigorous demands of its sector. A few years ago, when faced with the need to upgrade its aging fleet of lift trucks, the company turned to Hyster — marking a pivotal moment in their operations. The Need for Change KKL’s operations encompass a wide range of tasks, from earthmoving and waste disposal to the transportation and supply of construction materials. For years, these tasks were supported by older lift trucks that, while reliable in the past, had limitations that were increasingly becoming apparent. During the operation, the trucks struggled with restricted lift heights, making it difficult to handle taller loads or maximize vertical storage space efficiently. This limited their ability to fully meet KKL’s growing operational demands. More critically, the trucks were not suited for use in rough terrain, which posed significant challenges for off-site projects. As a result, KKL often resorted to using alternatives like truck-mounted cranes or even excavators for loading and unloading heavy materials such as concrete road barriers and steel beams. These workarounds, however, came at a cost. They required more manpower, increased the time taken for certain tasks, and introduced additional safety risks. It became clear that a more efficient solution was needed to support KKL’s expanding operations. After consulting with a trusted industry contact, KKL was introduced to Hyster, a leading lift truck manufacturer known for tough and reliable material handling solutions. The company made the decision to invest in Hyster products, opting for a 3-ton model […]

Andersen Consulting expands into Pakistan with collaborating firm NEC Consulting

Andersen Consulting bolsters its sustainability offering through a Collaboration Agreement with NEC Consultants (Pvt) Ltd., an environmental and infrastructure consulting firm based in Pakistan. Established in 2006, NEC Consultants provides environmental and engineering professional services. Their offerings include environmental assessments and audits, wastewater treatment plant design, energy audits, sustainability and circularity consulting, and training in environmental and energy efficiency. Azher Uddin Khan, managing director of NEC Consulting, said, “This collaboration with Andersen Consulting marks a significant milestone in our journey to provide innovative and sustainable solutions. By combining our local expertise with the organization’s global reach, we are poised to address complex challenges and drive impactful change in Pakistan and beyond.” Mark L. Vorsatz, global chairman and CEO of Andersen, added, “Pakistan is a rapidly growing economy with enormous potential in infrastructure development and environmental sustainability. As the country continues to invest in large-scale public and private projects, the need for multidimensional services is greater than ever. By collaborating with NEC Consultants, we gain a competitive edge in a high-growth market.” Andersen Consulting is a global consulting practice providing a comprehensive suite of services spanning corporate strategy, business, technology, and AI transformation, as well as human capital solutions. Andersen Consulting integrates with the multidimensional service model of Andersen Global, delivering world-class consulting, tax, legal, valuation, global mobility, and advisory expertise on a global platform with more than 20,000 professionals worldwide and a presence in over 500 locations through its member firms and collaborating firms. Andersen Consulting Holdings LP is a limited partnership and provides consulting solutions through its member firms and collaborating firms around the world.

Time for ASEAN to rethink a single currency amid global trade tensions

Dr Uma Murthy Dr Paul Anthony Maria Das As global economic uncertainties continue to mount, Southeast Asia stands at a strategic crossroads. The recent surge in trade tensions, particularly those stemming from the United States’ (U.S.) tariff policies and restrictive trade measures, has reignited discussions across Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) about the need for greater financial and monetary integration. One idea, long debated but never realised, has resurfaced with renewed urgency – the adoption of a single ASEAN currency. The U.S. has increasingly adopted protectionist trade practices, disrupted global supply chains and raised the cost of doing business. The ongoing U.S.–China tariff war, for example, continues to unsettle ASEAN exporters, particularly in electronics, palm oil, and rubber. According to the World Bank, the Southeast Asian region could lose an estimated US$13 billion annually due to ripple effects from trade fragmentation and tariff hikes.[1] Currency volatility adds another layer of unpredictability. The Thai baht, Malaysian ringgit, and Indonesian rupiah have all experienced significant depreciation against the U.S. dollar over the past year, making imports more expensive and external debt burdens heavier. A single regional currency could act as a buffer, shielding ASEAN economies from external shocks and speculative currency attacks. The European Union’s adoption of the euro has created one of the largest and most stable currency unions in the world, bringing 19 countries under a unified monetary policy. While challenges remain — as seen during the Greek debt crisis — the benefits of the euro in promoting price stability, enhancing trade, and reducing transaction costs are undeniable. Eurozone trade within member states rose by over 50% in the first decade of the euro’s introduction, according to data from the European Central Bank.[2] ASEAN already has some groundwork laid. The Chiang Mai Initiative Multilateralisation (CMIM), […]

ASEAN-GCC-China collaboration signals growing demand for multilateralism

The United States (U.S.) persistent efforts to maintain its fading unipolar dominance – through tariffs, sanctions, military presence, and dollar hegemony – have sparked a global pushback, prompting nations to seek refuge in multilateral alliances. –Dr Julia Roknifard Among the most notable is the BRICS organisation, which has grown in prominence. However, this is just one of many such organisations, all of which share the common theme of nations outside the traditional Western sphere banding together to insulate themselves from Washington’s overreach. This shift is driven not by ideology but by necessity. One recent example of this trend is the imposition of tariffs on the photovoltaic sector of several Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) members. These new duties follow previous tariffs placed late last year, under the pretext that ASEAN is merely a transshipment hub for Chinese-manufactured goods. These measures have fuelled dissatisfaction among ASEAN members, especially given the historical trade dynamics in the region. Originally formed during the Cold War to address tensions between non-communist Southeast Asian nations, ASEAN has since evolved into a diverse bloc. It now includes republican democracies, constitutional monarchies, and socialist states, all united in the pursuit of regional integration and socio-economic development. The timing of Malaysia’s chairmanship of ASEAN in 2025 is fortuitous. Under Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim, Malaysia is pushing for a neutral, trade-focused course, seeking economic cooperation with multiple nations while avoiding confrontation. Though there are exceptions, the overarching policy remains intact. Similarly, the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC), established in 1981 amid geopolitical tensions in the Middle East, has evolved from a regional security pact into a significant player in global energy markets. With vast reserves of hydrocarbons, the GCC now seeks greater economic diversification and long-term fiscal sustainability in light of the rise of new energy industries. During the early […]

Secutech 2025 concludes with optimism and strong affirmation of growth

Taipei, 21 May 2025. Secutech 2025 brought together a vibrant network of innovators and industry leaders at the Taipei Nangang Exhibition Centre in May, with concurrent Fire & Safety and Smart Building events. Featuring 396 exhibitors from nine countries and regions, the fair showcased the latest advancements in security technology, AI integration, and IoT, with offerings ranging from disaster prevention and fire protection to intelligent management. The platform underscored the growing demand for integrated smart security solutions across diverse industries, attracting over 14,057 visitors from 44 countries and regions. “Secutech has once again proven to be an invaluable platform for fostering innovation and collaboration across multiple sectors,” said Ms Regina Tsai, General Manager of Messe Frankfurt (HK) Ltd – Taiwan Branch. “From critical infrastructure and transportation to healthcare, manufacturing, and real estate, the fair has helped bridge the gap between technology providers and end users. By showcasing cutting-edge solutions in smart security, IoT, and AI integration, Secutech continues to drive meaningful progress in safety, efficiency, and resilience across industries.” Opening the event, Mr Huan-Zhang Xiao, Director General, National Fire Agency, Ministry of the Interior, remarked: “It is an honour to be part of Secutech 2025. I am inspired by the dedication of participants committed to fire safety, smart security, industrial safety, and environmental health. As we face escalating challenges from disaster risks and climate change, this fair serves as a crucial platform for driving innovation and international collaboration. Together, we aim to strengthen disaster resilience and pursue our shared vision of preserving lives, upgrading industries, and achieving net-zero carbon emissions.” Reflecting strong market demand, Secutech 2025 featured diverse exhibitors from Australia, China, Japan, Korea, Singapore, Spain, Taiwan, and the US. The fair brought together innovative start-ups and established leaders, highlighting advancements in surveillance automation, smart monitoring systems, biometric authentication devices, […]

Zoomlion’s grand debut at 2025 Changsha International Construction Equipment Exhibition

Zoomlion Heavy Industry Science & Technology Co., Ltd. has wrapped up a blockbuster exhibition at the 4th Changsha International Construction Equipment Exhibition (CICEE 2025) which was held from May 15 to 18 in Changsha, China. Zoomlion delivers the ZAT40000H, the world’s largest 4,000-ton all-terrain crane, at CICEE 2025. At CICEE 2025, Zoomlion showcased over 100 units of advanced equipment from nine major product categories including hoisting, concrete, earthmoving, mining, aerial work, emergency equipment and more as well as groundbreaking solutions, leading the industry to a new peak of high-end, intelligent and green development. Zoomlion Chairman and CEO Zhan Chunxin attended multiple high-level activities during the exhibition and accompanied a delegation of African envoys to China to tour the company’s exhibition zone, where he introduced the company’s technological breakthroughs in high-end, intelligent, and sustainable development. As the CICEE 2025 opened, Zoomlion celebrated the delivery of three units of the 4,000-ton ZAT40000H, the world’s largest tonnage all-terrain crane, which is Zoomlion’s record-breaking benchmark creation leading the industry sector into a new era of mega tonnage. It’s widely recognised in the market for strong lifting performance, flexible driving and site transfer, convenient and efficient operation, and addressing the exact pain points of wind turbine installation and construction. On May 17, Zoomlion also unveiled another world record – the world’s tallest 216-meter wind energy luffing tower crane LW2800A-200NA, specially developed for ultra-height wind power projects. With outstanding lifting capability, low site requirements, high efficiency, strong wind resistance, and ease of transport and dismantling, the crane is well suited to diverse terrains, including farmlands, hills, swamps, and plateaus. Zoomlion also hosted a new product launch event for its intelligent mining machinery portfolio, revealing 23 models including mining excavators, mining trucks, loaders, bulldozers and crushing and screening equipment as well as 15 premium large-scale, electrified, unmanned […]

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