What is the Aico 2 Flexiv?
The Flexiv AICO-2 is a compact 6-axis collaborative robot arm (cobot) developed by Flexiv Robotics, headquartered in Shanghai, China. Designed for precision assembly, pick-and-place, and inspection tasks in electronics and automotive industries, it features integrated joint torque sensors and 6-axis force-torque sensing at the tool flange, enabling direct force control for delicate operations. With a 2 kg payload, 600 mm reach, and 0.02 mm repeatability, it offers high accuracy in a lightweight 12 kg body. The AICO-2 runs on Flexiv's C2 controller and the Flexiv RDK development environment, supporting industrial connectivity via EtherCAT and Modbus TCP.
Specifications
Here are the full technical specifications.
| Spec | Value |
|---|---|
| Height | 1,600 mm (arm unfolded, unverified) |
| Weight | 12 kg |
| Degrees of freedom | 6 |
| Battery life | N/A (corded) |
| Max speed | 11.5 km/h |
| Payload | 2 kg |
| Price (new) | Undisclosed (contact manufacturer) |
| Price (used range) | Est. $8,000–$15,000 |
Price & Value
New MSRP: Undisclosed (contact manufacturer)
Used range: Est. $8,000–$15,000
Flexiv does not publicly disclose pricing for the AICO-2; inquiries must be directed to the manufacturer. Based on comparable 2-kg-class cobots, the new price is likely in the range of $10,000–$20,000, positioning it competitively against the UR3e and below the Doosan M0609. Used units are rare but may appear at a significant discount off MSRP, though buyers should verify warranty and controller availability. The AICO-2's force-sensing capabilities add value for precision assembly applications, potentially reducing total cost of ownership by minimizing fixturing and integration time.
Who Is It For?
Best for: - Electronics assembly lines requiring precise force control (2 kg payload, ±0.02 mm repeatability) - Research labs developing adaptive robotic assembly with torque sensing - Small-scale consumer goods manufacturing needing a compact, lightweight cobot (12 kg)
Not for: - Heavy industrial handling of parts over 2 kg - Applications requiring long battery operation (corded power only) - High-speed pick-and-place above 3.2 m/s
Alternatives & Comparison
The AICO-2 competes in the small cobot segment, emphasizing force sensitivity over raw speed or payload. Here’s how it stacks up against three direct competitors.
| Model | Price | Available | Key Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Universal Robots UR3e | $23,000 | yes | Higher payload (3 kg) but shorter reach (500 mm), established ecosystem |
| Dobot CR3 | $8,000 | yes | Lower price, 3 kg payload, simpler programming, no integrated torque sensing |
| Doosan M0609 | $20,000 | yes | 6 kg payload, 900 mm reach, IP67, integrated torque sensors |
Verdict: For precision tasks demanding intrinsic force control, the AICO-2 is the superior choice, especially where 2 kg payload suffices. Budget-conscious buyers needing higher payload should consider the Dobot CR3, while the Doosan M0609 offers a robust alternative with broader payload and reach.
Use Cases & Capabilities
Precision Assembly
The AICO-2 excels in electronics and automotive assembly where parts are small and insertion forces must be monitored. Its 0.02 mm repeatability and 6-axis force-torque sensing enable accurate screw driving, connector mating, and component placement without damaging sensitive parts. The arm's light weight allows flexible mounting above or beside conveyors. Integration is simplified through Flexiv's RDK and standard industrial protocols like EtherCAT.
Pick and Place
With a 600 mm reach and 3.2 m/s TCP speed, the AICO-2 handles lightweight bin-picking and sorting tasks efficiently. The integrated vision and force feedback ensure reliable grasping of small items, reducing drops and errors. It can be mounted in any orientation, making it ideal for confined workcells. Setup is accelerated by the intuitive RDK interface, reducing time from unboxing to operation.
Quality Inspection
The AICO-2’s force sensing enables precise touch-based inspection of surface finish, insertion depth, or spring tension. Combined with external vision systems, it can execute automated inspection routines with digital documentation. The IP54 rating allows deployment in moderately dusty or splash-prone environments common in metalworking and automotive inspection stations. Its compact size makes it a drop-in replacement for manual inspection jigs.
Gluing and Dispensing
Accurate force control is critical for consistent adhesive bead application. The AICO-2 maintains constant pressure across curved or uneven surfaces, thanks to its joint torque sensors. It can follow complex 3D paths at moderate speeds, improving bond quality and reducing material waste. Integration with EtherCAT simplifies synchronization with automated dispensing valves. The arm’s 12 kg weight supports easy repositioning between product lines.
History & Background
Flexiv was founded in 2016 in Shanghai, China, focusing on general-purpose robots with force-controlled technology. The AICO series, including the AICO-2, was announced in 2023 as a lineup of compact collaborative arms designed for fine manipulation. The AICO-2 became commercially available shortly after, supported by Flexiv’s C2 controller and RDK software environment. As of 2026, Flexiv continues to expand its cobot portfolio, with the AICO series positioned for electronics and consumer goods manufacturing. No major hardware revisions have been announced since launch, but software updates via RDK continue to enhance usability and connectivity.
Buying Used — What to Check
Verify controller and teach pendant The AICO-2 requires the Flexiv C2 controller; missing components significantly raise setup costs.
Inspect torque sensor calibration Force-sensitive joints rely on accurate torque readings; recalibration can be expensive if not performed by Flexiv.
Confirm IP54 sealing intact IP54 ensures protection from dust and splashes; compromised seals affect reliability in industrial environments.