For mobile robots, the steering wheel is a critical component responsible for the AGV’s steering and guidance. Its performance directly impacts the overall efficiency and functionality of the AGV, making it a key factor in achieving automation and intelligence. Among the integrated components of the steering wheel—drive motors, steering motors, and reducers—the reducer plays a vital role.
Founded in 2015, Hangzhou EED Transmission Co., Ltd. specializes in developing, manufacturing, and selling reducers, geared motors, and steering wheel power systems. The company entered the AGV market in 2019 and established a dedicated division focused on AGV/AMR steering wheels.
Starting with Reducers and Strengthening Core Steering Wheel Components
“We initially focused on producing reducers and motor-driven products, which later evolved into steering wheel development as a derivative product,” said EED Transmission’s General Manager, Ye Maoxing. The company collaborated with local universities and research institutes in Hangzhou to attract talent and expand its R&D capabilities in the AGV/AMR sector.
This May, EED Transmission introduced a new steering wheel product featuring advanced mechanical seals, high radial load capacity, and a seamless one-piece design for enhanced strength and braking safety. Ye highlighted that their steering wheels utilize helical planetary reducers, which stand out for their precision, low noise, and minimal vibration, making them ideal for high-accuracy applications.
Unlike straight-tooth planetary reducers, helical ones offer reduced gear transmission errors and superior stability, albeit at a higher cost and narrower reduction ratio range. EED Transmission also enhanced its reducers with high-quality alloy steel, optimized structural designs, and advanced heat treatment for improved durability and precision.
Enhancing Load Capacity and Flexibility
The company continues to refine its steering wheels by increasing load capacity—from 2 tons to nearly 6 tons—and minimizing turning radii to meet the demands of compact AGV/AMR operational spaces. These improvements help expand application scenarios and improve positioning accuracy.
Independent Development and Customization
EED Transmission’s ability to independently develop core components gives it a competitive edge in providing customized solutions. The company boasts an engineering team with expertise in AGV and robot design, capable of offering tailored solutions and scaling production quickly.
For quality assurance, EED Transmission employs a 30-member quality control team and advanced manufacturing facilities, adhering to ISO/9001:2015 and other international standards. Standard products can be delivered in 7–10 days, while custom products take about 20 days.
Keeping Up with Industry Trends
EED Transmission is actively participating in industry standards development, such as the technical requirements for explosion-proof mobile robots, to address growing demand in challenging environments like chemical plants. The company is also expanding into new markets, leveraging its independent production capabilities to meet diverse customer needs.
In the first half of this year, EED Transmission achieved a 30% year-on-year increase in its AGV/AMR steering wheel and precision planetary reducer business, with its RV reducers ranking among the top exporters in China.
Embracing Collaboration and Competition
Looking ahead, EED Transmission sees significant opportunities in the AGV steering wheel market, driven by rising domestic manufacturing capabilities and the growing global mobile robot market. “With lower costs, faster delivery times, and competitive quality, I believe domestic products will continue gaining traction overseas,” said Ye.
By aligning its technological innovation with market demands, EED Transmission aims to carve out a prominent position in both domestic and international markets.
