Articles tagged with "actuators"
This shape-shifting graphene material may power next-gen soft robots
Researchers at McGill University have developed ultra-thin graphene oxide films that can fold, move, and sense motion like animated origami, paving the way for advanced soft robotics and adaptive devices. These graphene oxide sheets are both strong and flexible, overcoming previous limitations of brittleness and manufacturing challenges. The material can be folded into complex shapes without cracking, enabling soft robots that operate safely around humans without rigid parts or heavy motors. The folded structures respond to environmental triggers such as humidity, opening and closing reversibly, or can be embedded with magnetic particles for remote control via external magnetic fields. This versatility allows the same base material to be adapted for diverse applications, from medical tools navigating delicate spaces to smart packaging reacting to environmental changes. Beyond actuation, the graphene oxide layers exhibit changes in electrical conductivity as they bend or fold, enabling the material to sense its own motion. This integrated sensing-actuation capability reduces the need for separate components, simplifying design and minimizing size. The researchers describe these as the first reconfig
robotsoft-roboticsgraphene-oxideorigami-materialsactuatorssmart-materialssensorsChina’s humanoid robot Adam nails Charleston dance in motion demo
China’s robotics firm PNDbotics has demonstrated significant advancements in humanoid robotics with its full-sized robot Adam performing the Charleston dance, a routine known for its demanding timing, balance, and coordination. Standing 1.6 meters tall and weighing 60 kilograms, Adam features 41 degrees of freedom and 25 patented quasi-direct-drive actuators capable of delivering up to 360 Nm of torque. These hardware innovations, combined with optimized trajectory-planning algorithms and a high-speed, low-latency control system, enable Adam to execute fluid, precise, and human-like movements with stability and expressiveness, including nuanced waist and wrist motions. The dance performance serves not just as entertainment but as a rigorous systems-level stress test, showcasing progress toward robots capable of complex, real-world tasks alongside humans. In addition to Adam, PNDbotics introduced Adam-U, a stationary humanoid platform designed for AI research and training, featuring 31 degrees of freedom, dexterous hands, and human-like perception through binocular
roboticshumanoid-robotmotion-controlAI-roboticsactuatorstrajectory-planningautonomous-manipulationPhotos: World’s first robotic chessboard autonomously moves pieces without human touch
The Phantom Chessboard, launched in late 2025, is the world’s first robotic chessboard that autonomously moves pieces without any human touch. Crafted entirely from solid walnut and maple, it combines traditional woodworking with advanced robotics to create an elegant, heirloom-quality chess experience. The board features a patented layered architecture concealing a magnetic sensor grid and ultra-quiet linear actuators that move pieces silently at under 18 decibels, avoiding the mechanical noise common in previous robotic chessboards. Its design maintains the appearance of a classic chessboard with no visible motors or plastic components. Phantom easily connects via Bluetooth to a companion app, enabling seamless integration with popular online chess platforms like Lichess and Chess.com. It supports online matches by physically replicating moves on the board and offers AI opponents such as Stockfish and Maia for varied skill levels. A unique Sculpture Mode allows autonomous replay of historic or personal games, enhancing learning and enjoyment through a tactile, visual experience. The technology is protected by
roboticsrobotic-chessboardautonomous-systemssensorsactuatorsBluetooth-connectivityAI-integrationUS firm Foundation plans to build 50,000 humanoid robots by 2027
San Francisco-based robotics startup Foundation plans an ambitious production of up to 50,000 humanoid robots, called Phantom MK-1, by the end of 2027. These robots, standing about 5 feet 9 inches tall and weighing around 175–180 pounds, are designed for both industrial and military applications, particularly combat-adjacent roles such as reconnaissance, bomb disposal, and high-risk ground operations. Foundation’s CEO Sankaet Pathak envisions these humanoids as the “first body in” during dangerous missions, potentially carrying lethal weapons while keeping human soldiers out of immediate harm’s way. The company aims to lease the robots at approximately $100,000 per year, highlighting potential cost savings through continuous operation and shift replacement, although these productivity claims have yet to be proven in real-world deployments. Foundation’s rapid scaling plan has evolved from an initial target of 10,000 units by 2026 to 50,000 by 2027, supported by acquisitions in AI
roboticshumanoid-robotsmilitary-robotsartificial-intelligenceactuatorsautomationrobotics-manufacturingWhere China leads and lags in humanoid joint architecture
The article by Ni Tao in IE’s Inside China column examines the evolving landscape of humanoid robot joint architecture, highlighting China’s position in this critical aspect of robotics hardware. While much attention in humanoid robotics focuses on AI “brains,” the article emphasizes that the physical hardware—specifically actuators, screws, and gearboxes that translate AI commands into movement—remains a significant bottleneck. Chinese manufacturers have demonstrated impressive humanoids capable of complex motions at low cost, leading some to assume hardware is no longer a limiting factor. However, ongoing debates about the optimal actuator type—rotary versus linear—underscore that hardware choices are still pivotal to the industry’s future. Currently, rotary actuators dominate humanoid robot joints, using mature gear reduction technologies such as harmonic drives and planetary gear reducers. These rotary systems multiply motor torque to enable movements like lifting and acrobatics, benefiting from a well-established industrial supply chain and cost efficiency. For example, Unitree’s G1 robot employs planetary and harmonic
roboticshumanoid-robotsactuatorsrotary-actuatorslinear-actuatorsgear-reducersrobotic-joints7 'secrets' that make humanoid robots think, walk and work like humans
The article explores seven key engineering advancements that enable humanoid robots to mimic human-like thinking, walking, and working capabilities. Central to these developments is advanced actuator technology, where newer musculoskeletal systems use tendons and cables to replicate the springy, flexible movement of human muscles, moving beyond traditional electric or hydraulic motors. Balance control is another critical area, with robots employing methods like Zero Moment Point (ZMP), Center-of-Mass control, and multi-contact balance strategies that allow them to dynamically adjust their posture and use their entire body to maintain stability, much like humans do. Sophisticated sensor integration plays a vital role in humanoid perception, combining multiple cameras, inertial measurement units (IMUs), and joint encoders to provide comprehensive environmental awareness and balance. Innovations in gripper dexterity focus on replicating the complexity of human hands, with designs featuring numerous degrees of freedom and biologically inspired sensing methods such as tendon length-based self-estimation. Lastly, real-time motion planning is essential for safe
roboticshumanoid-robotsactuatorsbalance-controlsensor-integrationmusculoskeletal-systemsrobotic-engineeringOctopus-Inspired artificial muscles boost underwater drones efficiency
Researchers at the University of Iowa have developed a novel approach to enhance the efficiency and maneuverability of underwater vehicles by mimicking the octopus's unique muscle structures. Their innovation involves integrating twisted spiral artificial muscles—synthetic coils inspired by octopus papillae muscles—into the wings of a small underwater hydrofoil. These coils, powered by small electric actuators, unspool in flowing water to reduce drag and increase lift, enabling the craft to move more smoothly and with up to 30% more lift and 10% less drag. This bioinspired design allows the vehicle to maintain stability and control even when sharply tilted against currents, addressing common challenges such as high energy consumption and limited maneuverability in underwater robotics. This research, led by Associate Professor Caterina Lamuta and funded by the U.S. Office of Naval Research, represents the first demonstration of an underwater flow-control device driven by twisted artificial muscles. The technology holds promise for a range of applications, including offshore energy, ocean exploration
robotartificial-musclesunderwater-dronesbioinspired-roboticsenergy-efficiencyactuatorsunderwater-vehiclesChina’s robot dog sprints 328 feet in 16.33 seconds, breaks record
China’s Zhejiang University announced that its quadruped robot, White Rhino, set a new Guinness World Record by sprinting 100 meters (328 feet) in 16.33 seconds, surpassing the previous record of 19.87 seconds held by South Korea’s Hound robot. The run took place in Hangzhou and marks a significant advancement in robotic speed, narrowing the gap between machine and human sprint performance (Usain Bolt’s human record is 9.58 seconds). This achievement demonstrates the robot’s explosive power, speed, stability, and precise control during rapid movement. White Rhino was developed through a collaborative effort involving Zhejiang University’s Center for X-Mechanics, School of Aeronautics and Astronautics, and the Hangzhou Global Scientific and Technological Innovation Center. The design process employed a “robot forward design” approach, using comprehensive dynamics simulations and multi-objective optimization to simultaneously refine geometry, motor specifications, and reduction systems. The robot features high-power-density joint actuators
robotquadruped-robotroboticsactuatorscontrol-algorithmsreinforcement-learningmechanical-designRobot Adam grooves on keytar at China’s futuristic music festival
The article highlights the debut of Adam, a full-sized humanoid robot developed by PNDbotics, performing as a keytar player alongside Chinese musician Hu Yutong’s band at the VOYAGEX Music Festival in Changchun, China, on July 12, 2025. Adam impressed the audience with fluid, human-like movements and precise musical timing, showcasing a seamless integration of robotics and live performance art. Standing 1.6 meters tall and weighing 60 kilograms, Adam’s agility and control stem from 25 patented quasi-direct drive (QDD) PND actuators with advanced force control, enabling smooth, coordinated motions that closely mimic human dexterity. Powered by a proprietary reinforcement learning algorithm and supported by a robust control system featuring an Intel i7-based unit, Adam demonstrates sophisticated real-time coordination across its limbs and joints. The robot’s modular design enhances its versatility, maintainability, and adaptability to dynamic environments, including congested or uneven terrain. PNDbotics has continuously
robothumanoid-robotroboticsartificial-intelligencereinforcement-learningactuatorsrobot-control-systemsNew copper-based alloy could power space, hydrogen tech in extreme cold
A team of Japanese researchers from institutions including Tohoku University, JAXA, and Kyoto University has developed a novel copper-based shape memory alloy (Cu-Al-Mn) that retains its shape memory effect at extremely low temperatures down to -200°C (-328°F). This breakthrough addresses a significant limitation of existing shape memory alloys (SMAs), such as nickel-titanium (Ni-Ti), which lose functionality below -20°C. The new alloy is the first actuator material capable of delivering large mechanical work output in cryogenic conditions, making it suitable for applications in harsh environments like deep space and super-chilled hydrogen systems. To demonstrate its practical potential, the researchers created a mechanical heat switch using the Cu-Al-Mn alloy as an actuator, which operated flawlessly at -170°C by regulating heat flow through contact switching. This innovation paves the way for high-performance actuators in cryogenic environments, with promising uses in space telescope cooling systems and carbon-neutral hydrogen transport and storage technologies. The article
materialsshape-memory-alloycopper-alloycryogenic-technologyspace-technologyhydrogen-technologyactuatorsRISE Robotics raises funding for award-winning Beltdraulic actuators - The Robot Report
RISE Robotics, founded in 2011 by graduates of MIT and RISD and based in Somerville, Massachusetts, has developed an innovative Beltdraulic actuator technology that replaces traditional high-pressure hydraulic systems with a belt-and-pulley mechanism. This technology offers significant advantages including reduced leaks, lower complexity, increased efficiency, and improved sustainability. The Beltdraulic system delivers hydraulic-like power with electromechanical precision, eliminates oil and emissions, and is more shock-tolerant with a longer lifespan than screw actuators. Its fully digital design enables teleoperation and autonomy without additional sensors, making it faster, more efficient, and easier to maintain. The company recently raised $2.5 million from over 1,300 investors via Wefunder, marking a milestone of public and strategic validation. RISE Robotics has received recognition such as the Guinness World Record for the "Strongest Robotic Arm Prototype" with its SuperJammer arm lifting over 7,000 pounds, demonstrating the power and efficiency
roboticsactuatorshydraulic-replacementelectric-actuationpredictive-maintenanceindustrial-roboticssustainable-technologyScientists build robot that can soar and roll on just two actuators
Researchers at the Singapore University of Technology and Design have developed ATOM, a novel dual-mobility robot that operates using only two actuators to achieve both flight and ground movement. Unlike most hybrid robots that rely on multiple motors, gears, or transformable frames, ATOM’s design employs two counter-rotating actuators enabling it to take off, fly directionally, roll on the ground, and perform turns with high energy efficiency. Its mono-wing structure acts like a spinning wheel in flight, capable of rotating clockwise or anticlockwise, a rare feature among similar designs. On the ground, ATOM uses its frame for navigation and employs a reverse thrust mechanism to handle resistance during turns, enhancing control and maneuverability. ATOM addresses several limitations seen in previous hybrid robots. Earlier mono-wing robots struggled with ground friction, directional flight constraints, and the inability to self-right after landing upside down, often requiring manual intervention. In contrast, ATOM’s wheeled frame reduces drag on rough surfaces, its
roboticsdual-mobility-robotenergy-efficient-robotactuatorshybrid-robot-designaerial-ground-robotsearch-and-rescue-robot