Tier-1 Supplier

一级供应商（Tier 1）Tier 1Advanced

A component or module maker that supplies a complete-robot maker directly, one tier up from raw parts.

Tier 1 is supply-chain grading carried over from the auto industry: a supplier that delivers a subassembly or module directly to an OEM (a company that designs, assembles, and sells the complete product) is a Tier-1 supplier, and whoever supplies that Tier-1 supplier is Tier 2, and so on down the chain. Humanoid robotics has adopted the same language: the embodiment maker plays the role of the OEM, companies supplying it with joint modules, dexterous hands, or complete actuator assemblies are Tier 1, and companies supplying those Tier-1 makers with individual parts like reducers, lead screws, and motors are Tier 2. It matters because it determines who wins the order and who bears quality and delivery responsibility; when the secondary market discusses the “Tesla chain” or a “nomination,” it's often really asking whether a company has become a given embodiment maker's Tier-1 supplier.

ExampleAs reported, Tuopu Group supplies complete actuator assemblies for Tesla's Optimus, and is accordingly often described as a Tier-1 candidate for Optimus.

Also called: Tier 1
Related: Tesla (Optimus) Supply Chain · Upstream / Midstream / Downstream of the Industry Chain · Robot Body Maker · Sampling / Supplier Nomination · Core Components · Tuopu Group
Sources: Wikipedia: Automotive industry supply chain / Tier 1