Fourier (company)
| Company type | Private |
|---|---|
| Industry | Robotics, Healthcare |
| Founded | 2015 |
| Founder | Alex Gu |
| Headquarters | Shanghai , China |
Area served | Over 10 countries |
Key people | Alex Gu (Founder) |
| Products | Rehabilitation robotics, humanoid robots (GR-1, GR-2), exoskeletons, MetaMotus™ Galileo platform |
Fourier () is a robotics enterprise based in Shanghai, China.
Originally specializing in rehabilitation robotics, Fourier has broadened its scope to include the creation of humanoid robots.
Background
Established in 2015 by Alex Gu, an alumnus of Shanghai Jiao Tong University and former sales executive at National Instruments, Fourier was named in honor of Joseph Fourier and founded in Zhangjiang Town with a focus on technologies for physical rehabilitation.
The company’s funding comes from investors such as IDG Capital and Saudi Aramco.
By 2019, Fourier had introduced intelligent rehabilitation devices, including exoskeletons, to hundreds of hospitals spanning over 10 countries, thereby securing a foothold in the medical robotics sector. That same year marked the beginning of Fourier’s venture into humanoid robot development, aligning with Gu’s strategic vision.
In June 2020, Fourier expanded by acquiring Zhuhai RHK Healthcare (RHK), a provider of rehabilitation services catering to more than 200 hospitals throughout China. This acquisition broadened Fourier’s client network, improved data acquisition capabilities, and facilitated the creation of an ecosystem centered on its rehabilitation technologies. Additionally, RHK’s expertise in leasing and financing medical equipment allowed Fourier to better serve hospitals with limited budgets and staffing in lower-tier cities by offering service-based solutions that mitigate the high upfront costs of its products.
During an inspection visit to Shanghai in December 2023, Chinese leader Xi Jinping toured Fourier’s facilities and showed interest in engaging with its bipedal robot. This event highlighted increasing governmental focus on advancing robotics innovation.
Product history
Fourier’s initial mission was to develop robotic solutions aimed at assisting individuals affected by neurological disabilities.
On 20 March 2017, the company introduced the Fourier X1, an exoskeleton designed to support walking assistance.
On 21 January 2019, Fourier launched the Fourier Exoskeleton & Robotics Open Platform (EXOPS), created in collaboration with National Instruments. This open platform, similar in concept to Android, facilitates exoskeleton development.
In 2019, Fourier commenced work on its inaugural humanoid robot, GR-1, within a modest laboratory at its headquarters. By 2022, a 1.65-meter-tall GR-1 prototype demonstrated capabilities to stand and walk. A video showcasing this prototype generated mixed international responses, with some skepticism regarding its authenticity. The GR-1 was formally revealed to the public in July 2023 during the World Artificial Intelligence Conference held in Shanghai, attracting considerable attention. Prior to this unveiling, limited units had been distributed to universities and AI companies for research and development purposes. Mass production was slated for late 2023, aiming to manufacture thousands of units throughout 2024. By June 2024, the GR-1 was equipped with a vision system that enabled real-time mapping, navigation, and obstacle avoidance with precision comparable to human abilities.
In November 2023, Fourier introduced MetaMotus™ Galileo, a platform combining biomechanics analysis with rehabilitation through integration of virtual reality and robotic technology.
At the close of September 2024, Fourier released the enhanced GR-2 model. Measuring 1.75 meters tall and weighing 63 kg, it offers 53 degrees of freedom, supports a single-arm load capacity of up to 3 kg, includes a detachable battery pack, and features an improved software development kit designed for executing more sophisticated tasks.