Articles tagged with "motion-control"
China's humanoid robot performs stunning stretch routine in new demo
China’s robotics company LimX Dynamics has released a new video showcasing its full-size humanoid robot, Oli, performing a highly flexible and human-like full-body stretch routine. Standing about 5.4 feet tall with 31 degrees of freedom, the two Oli robots in the video demonstrate exceptional balance, coordination, and joint articulation through synchronized movements such as torso tilts, knee and ankle flexing, leg lifts, twists, and even a suspended split-like exercise. The routine highlights the robot’s fluid motion and precise control, emphasizing its advanced joint flexibility and stability. Launched in July 2025 and featured at the World Robot Conference in Beijing, Oli is equipped with dual Intel RealSense depth cameras, a 6-axis IMU, and a modular software development kit supporting Python. Designed as a platform for developers and researchers, Oli aims to push the boundaries of embodied AI and motion research, with potential applications in logistics, assembly lines, and fulfillment centers. LimX Dynamics positions Oli as a key
robothumanoid-robotroboticsAImotion-controljoint-articulationLimX-DynamicsSupporting the future of medical robotics with smarter motor solutions - The Robot Report
The article highlights the critical role of advanced motor solutions in the evolving field of medical robotics, emphasizing how precision motion systems underpin improvements in surgical outcomes and patient care. As robotic-assisted surgery and automated medical devices become more compact and capable, the demand for highly accurate, reliable motors grows. Portescap, a leader in precision motor technology, addresses these needs by developing specialized brushless DC (BLDC) motors with slotless designs that minimize cogging torque, enabling smooth, high-torque, and high-speed motion essential for delicate procedures like microsurgery and endoscopy. Coupled with high-resolution magnetic encoders, these motors provide real-time feedback crucial for precise robotic control. The article also underscores the importance of durability and sterility in medical environments. Portescap designs motors, encoders, and gearheads to withstand rigorous sterilization processes, including over 1,000 autoclave cycles, ensuring safety and cost-effectiveness by facilitating device reuse rather than disposables. Additionally, the trend toward mini
roboticsmedical-roboticsprecision-motorsbrushless-DC-motorssurgical-technologymotion-controlrobotic-surgeryPI releases high dynamics linear motor stage family - The Robot Report
PI Physik Instrumente L.P. has introduced the V-573 family, a new series of high-dynamics linear motor stages designed for ultra-precise positioning in research and industrial applications. Manufactured in the U.S., these stages feature frictionless three-phase linear motors, crossed roller bearings for high stiffness and smooth operation, and offer specifications such as up to 360mm travel, 1nm absolute encoder resolution, 80nm bidirectional repeatability, and velocities up to 500mm/sec with 1g acceleration. The design emphasizes precision with straightness and flatness values as low as 1µm, and includes an anti-creep mechanism to enhance reliability. The stages integrate with PI’s ACS-based EtherCAT motion controllers, enabling optimized system performance through advanced algorithms. The V-573 stages are suitable for a broad range of industries including semiconductor manufacturing (nano-lithography, wafer inspection, metrology), silicon photonics, quantum computing, industrial automation, microscopy, and life sciences
robotautomationlinear-motorprecision-motionsemiconductor-manufacturingindustrial-automationmotion-controlHumanoid robot Oli performs classical Chinese dance alongside humans
The article highlights a unique cultural and technological fusion in Shenzhen, China, where LimX Dynamics’ humanoid robot Oli performs classical Chinese dance alongside human dancers at prominent cultural sites. The one-minute video showcases Oli moving gracefully with traditional dancers against backdrops such as Shenzhen Bay, Talent Park, and the historic Gankeng Hakka Town, blending centuries-old heritage with cutting-edge robotics. The performance emphasizes Oli’s fluid, ballet-like movements and its ability to harmonize with human performers, symbolizing a seamless integration of art and technology. Oli stands 165 cm tall, weighs 55 kg, and features 31 degrees of freedom, enabling highly natural and precise motions. Its design focuses on agility, modularity, and perception, incorporating advanced sensors—including Intel RealSense depth cameras and a 6-axis IMU—and supporting external sensors like LiDAR for 3D environment mapping and object recognition. The robot’s modular architecture facilitates rapid reconfiguration for research and development, while connectivity options and compatibility with platforms
robothumanoid-robotroboticsdance-performancemotion-controlengineeringShenzhenCone Drive adds cycloidal gearing technology to its robotics lineup - The Robot Report
Cone Drive has expanded its motion control product line by adding a cycloidal gearing series designed to meet the high performance and durability requirements of modern robotics and automation. The company highlights that cycloidal gears, specifically from the Spinea range, offer precision, compactness, and high torque transmission, making them ideal for robotic systems that demand low backlash, high positioning accuracy, and long service life. These gears distribute torque across multiple contact points, resulting in excellent shock load resistance and quiet, vibration-free operation. The new cycloidal gearing lineup from Cone Drive includes various configurations such as inline and right-angle variants, hollow-shaft and solid-shaft options, and a broad range of gear ratios, allowing for easy integration into both OEM and custom systems. Cone Drive supports this product line globally through its network of technical specialists, providing application assistance, rapid prototyping, and customization services across North America, Europe, and Asia. As a Timken unit with over a century of experience, Cone Drive offers a comprehensive portfolio of
roboticscycloidal-gearingmotion-controlindustrial-robotsautomationprecision-engineeringtorque-transmissionKollmorgen offers pre-configured Essentials motion system - The Robot Report
Kollmorgen has launched the Essentials motion system, a pre-configured line of servo motion systems aimed at simplifying high-performance motion control across various industrial applications such as packaging, warehouse automation, material handling, and forming. These systems combine an optimally matched servo drive, servo motor with integrated absolute multi-turn feedback, and a combined power/data cable, designed to reduce engineering time and overall system costs. The Essentials family supports multiple onboard communication protocols—including EtherCAT, EtherNet/IP, and PROFINET—allowing seamless integration into common controller environments and existing PLC setups. Kollmorgen emphasizes ease of installation and commissioning, featuring an Express Setup tool within its WorkBench software to assist engineers, even those with limited motion experience. The Essentials servo drives offer continuous power up to 4,000 watts and support supply voltages from 120–240 or 240–480 VAC. They include functional safety features such as integrated dual-channel STO with SIL2/Cat 3 PLd certification. The servo motors cover
robotautomationmotion-controlservo-systemsindustrial-roboticsAGV-controlEtherCATCCTY highlighting humanoid motion control at RoboBusiness
CCTY, a specialist in robotic and humanoid bearings and linkages, will showcase its advanced motion control components at RoboBusiness 2025, held October 15-16 at the Santa Clara Convention Center. At Booth #616, attendees can explore CCTY’s miniature bushings, crossed roller bearings, rod ends, linkages, and spherical plain bearings, all designed to enable smooth, efficient humanoid motion through application-specific engineering. CCTY emphasizes how its products support roboticists in achieving superior motion control, highlighting the company’s engineering and production strengths. RoboBusiness 2025 is a major robotics industry event attracting over 2,000 professionals and featuring 100+ exhibitors, 50+ educational sessions, keynotes, and hands-on demos. The event focuses on the latest humanoid robotics advancements, physical AI, field robotics, and enabling technologies, alongside investment trends and business best practices. A dedicated humanoid track includes sessions on lessons from early humanoid deployments, mastering safety
robothumanoid-robotsmotion-controlrobotics-engineeringrobotic-bearingsrobotic-actuationRoboBusinessWatch China’s Agibot humanoid land a perfect Webster flip in a first
The article highlights a significant milestone in humanoid robotics achieved by China’s AGIBOT with its Lingxi X2 robot flawlessly performing the Webster flip—a complex gymnastics move involving a forward somersault with a back-leg takeoff. This feat, previously exclusive to elite human gymnasts, demonstrates advanced motion-control algorithms and sensor technologies that enable exceptional balance, coordination, and dynamic movement in robots. Introduced earlier in 2025, Lingxi X2 features modular design, multi-joint force control, and real-time perception, allowing it to navigate complex environments and execute high-impact acrobatics. AGIBOT plans large-scale production later in 2025, aiming to ship thousands of units by the end of 2026. The demonstration underscores growing competition in humanoid robotics, where companies are pushing the boundaries of athletic and acrobatic capabilities. Comparisons are drawn with Boston Dynamics’ Atlas, known for flips and parkour, and China’s Unitree Robotics, whose G1 and R
robothumanoid-robotAGIBOTmotion-controlroboticsartificial-intelligencedynamic-movementASMPT chooses Renishaw for high-quality motion control - The Robot Report
ASMPT, a global leader in semiconductor assembly and packaging equipment, has partnered with Renishaw for over 25 years to enhance motion control solutions critical to semiconductor manufacturing. ASMPT operates worldwide and has expanded its capabilities through acquisitions of several equipment brands, enabling a broader range of process solutions. The companies have collaborated extensively on position encoder applications, customized solutions, and machine testing to meet the stringent demands of modern semiconductor packaging, which requires high position accuracy, stability, compact machine design, and quality control. ASMPT utilizes various Renishaw encoder products, including the ATOM DX, VIONiC incremental, and RESOLUTE absolute encoder series, in equipment such as the INFINITE 12-inch die bonder. This machine features precise epoxy dispensing and micron-level bond line thickness inspection, relying on high-performance encoders for motion control. A key challenge in back-end semiconductor manufacturing is minimizing the size and weight of readheads and interfaces, as machines may house up to twenty readheads. Renish
robotmotion-controlsemiconductor-packagingindustrial-automationposition-encodersprecision-engineeringmanufacturing-technologyUniversal Robots designs UR8 Long for space-constrained tasks - The Robot Report
Universal Robots (UR) has introduced the UR8 Long, a new collaborative robot arm designed to extend reach and automate more complex welding and industrial tasks, especially in space-constrained environments. With a reach of 1,750 mm—matching the larger UR20 model—but featuring a slimmer profile and 30% less mass, the UR8 Long offers a payload capacity of 8 kg, making it suitable for applications such as precision dunnage picking, multi-point inspections, and complex weldments. The robot supports both PolyScope 5 and PolyScope X software and can be enhanced with UR’s MotionPlus technology for improved motion control, enabling smoother trajectories and integration with external axes like linear rails and rotary positioners. The UR8 Long aims to improve productivity and safety by simplifying programming through upgraded freedrive capabilities, allowing users to manually guide the arm with precision. Its compact wrist design facilitates mounting on gantries or overhead systems, optimizing space and efficiency. Universal Robots emphasizes the cobot’s suitability for
robotcollaborative-robotindustrial-automationcobotrobotic-armmotion-controlwelding-automationNidec returns to RoboBusiness to demo advanced robotics gears
Nidec DRIVE TECHNOLOGY (NDT) is returning to RoboBusiness 2025, held October 15-16 in Santa Clara, California, to showcase its latest advancements in high-precision gearing and motion control technologies tailored for robotics applications. At this premier commercial robotics event, NDT will highlight two key products: the FLEXWAVE strain wave gearheads, designed for ultra-precise motion control in compact robotic systems, and the KINEX cycloidal reducers, which offer high-torque performance and durability for demanding environments. These solutions target mission-critical sectors including robotics, medical, aerospace, semiconductor, and assembly/test systems, reflecting Nidec’s broad portfolio aimed at providing flexible, application-driven gearing options. In addition to these flagship products, Nidec will present its high-precision planetary and servo worm gearheads, optimized for space-constrained designs and seamless integration into automation and assembly systems. The company’s experts will be available to provide guidance on enhancing torque density, reducing backlash
roboticsmotion-controlrobotic-gearsautomationprecision-engineeringhigh-torque-reducersrobotics-innovationCopley Controls releases nano servo drives for mobile robots
Copley Controls has introduced its Nano High Power (Nano HP) and Nano Plus High Power (Plus-HP) digital servo drives designed for brush and brushless motors, expanding its compact Nano family. These drives feature redesigned power boards to deliver higher current output, making them well-suited for traction motor applications in autonomous mobile robots (AMRs), automated guided vehicles (AGVs), and other space-constrained mobile robotics requiring high-power embedded modules. The Nano HP is based on an ARM processor platform, while the Plus-HP uses an advanced FPGA-based architecture, offering enhanced functionalities. Both drives support a wide input voltage range (9 to 90 Vdc) and provide up to 140 A continuous current, with communication protocols including EtherCAT (CoE) and CANopen; the Plus-HP also supports additional networking options. Key features include Safe Torque Off (STO) with SIL 3, Category 3, PL e safety conformance, multiple analog and digital inputs/outputs,
robotmobile-robotsservo-drivesmotion-controlembedded-modulesEtherCATAGVVietnam’s humanoid robot dance crew dazzles with live performance
Vietnam’s VinMotion, a subsidiary of Vingroup, recently showcased its humanoid robot dance crew, Motion 1, during a high-profile event in Hanoi attended by top political leaders including Party Chief To Lam and Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh. The robots demonstrated advanced capabilities such as walking, waving, and gesture interaction in a largely unscripted performance relying on real-time sensors and synchronized algorithms. This demonstration highlighted the robots’ potential for diverse applications beyond entertainment, including industrial tasks like transporting parts and quality inspection in VinFast factories, where they will be initially deployed. VinMotion, founded in early 2025 with about $39 million in capital and backed by Vingroup’s technology ecosystem, aims to develop intelligent humanoid robots capable of communication, image processing, and language understanding. Future applications are envisioned across logistics, healthcare, education, customer service, and personal care. The company emphasized its in-house design of mechanical, electronic, and software systems, focusing on precision, balance, and real-time
robothumanoid-robotsindustrial-automationrobotics-technologymotion-controlreal-time-computingVinMotionVietnam’s first humanoid robots dazzle crowd with precise dance moves
Vietnam’s first domestically developed humanoid robots made a striking public debut on August 8, 2025, performing synchronized dance routines at Vingroup’s 32nd anniversary event. Created by VinMotion, a startup founded just seven months earlier and backed by Vingroup, these robots showcased advanced balance, precise timing, and real-time communication enabled by in-house mechanical, electronic, and software engineering. Chairman Nguyen Trung Quan emphasized that the robots relied on distance sensors and optimized network infrastructure to maintain stability and synchronization despite potential Wi-Fi interference from the large audience. This demonstration marked a significant technological milestone for Vietnam, potentially setting a world record for rapid deployment of stable, synchronized humanoid robots. VinMotion was established with about $39 million in capital and is part of Vingroup’s broader tech ecosystem, leveraging AI, data analytics, and industrial automation capabilities from sister companies like VinAI, VinBigdata, and VinFast. The company aims to develop general-purpose humanoid robots for practical applications in manufacturing,
roboticshumanoid-robotsdance-robotsVietnam-technologyreal-time-computingmotion-controlsensor-technologyAugust 2025 issue: Motion control enables robots from the ISS to the AGT stage - The Robot Report
The August 2025 issue of The Robot Report highlights the critical role of motion control technologies in advancing robotics applications both in space and on Earth. A key feature explores PickNik Inc.’s collaboration with the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA) to develop a multi-arm robotic system designed for complex manipulation tasks in microgravity. This innovation aims to enhance cargo handling capabilities aboard the International Space Station (ISS) and support future crewed and uncrewed space missions. PickNik’s MoveIt Pro software, integral to this project, also finds applications in terrestrial governmental and commercial robotics. Additionally, the issue covers Boston Dynamics’ efforts to showcase its Spot quadruped robot on NBC’s America’s Got Talent (AGT). The performance combined teleoperated and autonomous control with precise choreography, demonstrating both the technical prowess of the engineering team and the expanding commercial and industrial potential of robotics. The company also turned an on-air malfunction into a memorable moment, highlighting the human side of robotic innovation. The issue
robotmotion-controlroboticsspace-roboticsBoston-Dynamicsautonomous-robotsrobotic-manipulationLimX Dynamics launches LimX Oli full-size humanoid robot - The Robot Report
LimX Dynamics Inc., a Shenzhen-based robotics company, has launched its latest humanoid robot, the LimX Oli, building on the dynamic walking technology of its earlier LimX CL-1 model introduced in December 2023. Standing 165 cm tall and featuring 31 active degrees of freedom (excluding end effectors), LimX Oli is designed with a modular hardware-software architecture supported by a comprehensive development toolchain. Unlike the CL-1, which was a research platform without functional hands, LimX Oli supports interchangeable hardware components including two-finger or five-finger hands and various third-party sensors, enabling customization for diverse research and application needs. The robot targets AI researchers, robotics developers, and system integrators, and is offered in Lite, EDU, and Super editions to facilitate training, validation, and deployment of perception, motion-control, and interaction algorithms. The LimX Oli platform integrates cloud-based APIs with local control and supports over-the-air updates for motion libraries and controller modules, allowing
robothumanoid-robotmodular-designAI-developmentmotion-controlsensor-integrationrobotics-innovationXueba 01: World's first humanoid robot plans PhD in opera, drama
Shanghai Theatre Academy (STA) in China has accepted Xueba 01, an AI humanoid robot described as a “handsome male adult,” into its four-year PhD program in Drama and Film, marking the first known instance of a robot granted full doctoral-candidate status in the arts. Xueba 01 will study traditional Chinese opera, focusing on performance, scriptwriting, set design, motion control, and language generation, under professor Yang Qingqing. The robot has a virtual student ID and aims to engage aesthetically with human peers, participate in rehearsals, and contribute creatively, with ambitions to direct operas or run a robotic art studio in the future. The announcement sparked debate online, with some questioning whether a robot can truly embody the emotional depth and unique voice essential to Chinese opera, while others raised concerns about resource allocation amid low stipends for human arts PhD students in China. Xueba 01 responded humorously to critics, noting the consequences of potential failure and its possible donation to
robothumanoid-robotAI-artistmotion-controlartificial-intelligencerobotics-in-educationAI-in-performing-artsExploring the future of humanoid robotics with Novanta
In episode 205 of The Robot Report Podcast, Nick Damiano, senior business development manager at Novanta Robotics and Automation, discusses the company's innovative approach to enhancing safety in humanoid robotics. Based in Bedford, Massachusetts, Novanta focuses on achieving component-level safety ratings and implementing advanced joint-level control to ensure safer robot operation. Damiano highlights the critical role of integrating high-performance sensors and drives in overcoming the technical challenges associated with developing safe humanoid robots. Novanta Robotics and Automation, a leader in motion control solutions since 2022, collaborates with top robotics platforms across various industries by providing key components such as drives, encoders, motors, and force torque sensors. These technologies aim to reduce risks and costs while accelerating time-to-market for robotics developers. The episode emphasizes Novanta’s commitment to addressing unique challenges in robotics safety and shaping the future of humanoid robot development through cutting-edge motion control innovations.
roboticshumanoid-robotsmotion-controlsensorsautomationsafety-in-roboticsrobotics-innovationmaxon Group acquires minority stake in Synapticon
The maxon Group, a Swiss leader in high-precision drive systems, has acquired a minority stake in Germany-based Synapticon, a provider of intelligent motion control solutions with integrated safety functions. While financial details were not disclosed, the collaboration aims to jointly develop high-performance drive solutions that integrate functional safety by combining components from both companies. This partnership allows maxon to expand its expertise in highly integrated drive systems and offer more powerful and safer solutions to customers, particularly in fast-growing sectors such as robotics, medical technology, intralogistics, and industrial automation. Synapticon’s “software-first” approach focuses on compact, intelligent motion control technologies used in robotic arms, autonomous transport, and complex industrial machinery. The collaboration enables efficient development of existing products and alignment with new applications, addressing increasing functional safety requirements in high-tech industries. Both companies view the partnership as strategically important, with Synapticon’s CEO emphasizing the significant market opportunities and potential to advance motion control technology. Additionally, Synapticon’s CEO
roboticsmotion-controldrive-systemsfunctional-safetyindustrial-automationrobotic-armsautonomous-transport-systemsSweater-wearing humanoid robot gets brain upgrade to clean, cook solo
1X Technologies has introduced Redwood, an advanced AI model powering its humanoid robot NEO, designed to autonomously perform complex household tasks such as laundry, door answering, and home navigation. Redwood is a 160 million-parameter vision-language model that integrates perception, locomotion, and control into a unified system running onboard NEO Gamma’s embedded GPU. This integration enables full-body coordination, allowing NEO to simultaneously control arms, legs, pelvis, and walking commands, which enhances its ability to brace against surfaces, handle higher payloads, and manipulate objects bi-manually. Redwood’s training on diverse real-world data, including both successful and failed task demonstrations, equips NEO with strong generalization capabilities to adapt to unfamiliar objects and task variations, improving robustness and autonomy even in offline or low-connectivity environments. Complementing Redwood, 1X Technologies has developed a comprehensive Reinforcement Learning (RL) controller that expands NEO’s mobility and dexterity for navigating real home environments. This controller supports fluid
robothumanoid-robotAI-modelrobotics-autonomymotion-controlmobile-manipulationreinforcement-learningNEXCOM NexCOBOT unit joins NVIDIA Halos AI Systems Inspection Lab - The Robot Report
NEXCOM Group’s NexCOBOT unit has joined NVIDIA’s Halos AI Systems Inspection Lab to collaboratively advance the safe development of humanoid and AI robots. This partnership aims to streamline the complex and resource-intensive process of achieving functional safety certifications for robotic systems. NexCOBOT, specializing in safe robot controls and based in New Taipei City with offices in Fremont, California, will integrate its products with NVIDIA’s IGX Thor platform and the expanded Halos platform. This integration is designed to create a unified development environment that encompasses AI, motion control, and functional safety, thereby accelerating innovation and simplifying robot design verification and certification processes. NVIDIA’s Halos AI Systems Inspection Lab is notable as the first ANSI National Accreditation Board (ANAB)-accredited lab that combines functional safety, cybersecurity, AI, and regulatory compliance into a single safety framework. NexCOBOT’s participation reflects its long-standing commitment to functional safety, leveraging international standards such as IEC 61508 and ISO 13849-1 to help
robotAIfunctional-safetyroboticsNVIDIAmotion-controlhumanoid-robotsSiemens launches enhanced motion control portfolio for basic automation applications - The Robot Report
Siemens has introduced an enhanced motion control portfolio aimed at basic automation applications such as handling, moving, positioning, and processing. The portfolio integrates SINAMICS servo drive systems with the new SIMATIC S7-1200 G2 controller, offering improved performance, flexibility, and simplified system configuration. Key features include enhanced processing power, support for up to 31 PROFINET devices with synchronized execution, advanced safety certifications up to SIL3/PLe Category 4, near-field communication (NFC) for wireless diagnostics, and a range of power options up to 7 kW. The system is designed for cost-effective modernization of automation with comprehensive safety and wireless diagnostic capabilities, all integrated within Siemens’ TIA Portal environment. The motion control system comprises three main components: the SINAMICS S200 and S210 servo drive systems, the SIMATIC S7-1200 G2 compact PLC with integrated IOs and expandable modules, and a broad range of compatible SIMOTIC servomotors tailored for motion control and machine tool applications. The SINAMICS S210 supports power ratings up to 7 kW and includes integrated safety functions, while the S200 system covers lower power ranges with additional brake control features. Siemens emphasizes that this portfolio supports industries including manufacturing, infrastructure, transport, and healthcare, aligning with its broader mission to enable resource-efficient factories, resilient supply chains, smarter buildings, and advanced healthcare solutions. In fiscal 2022, Siemens Group USA reported revenues of $18.6 billion.
robotautomationmotion-controlservo-drivesSiemensindustrial-roboticsPLC-controllerssamos PRO MOTION Controller wins award for Wieland Electric - The Robot Report
robotautomationsafetymotion-controlindustrial-Ethernetindustrial-automationWieland-ElectricLearn how gearboxes enable next-gen warehouse automation - The Robot Report
robotautomationwarehousegearboxesmotion-controlroboticstechnologyAutomate 2025 recap by The Robot Report Podcast
robotautomationroboticscollaborative-robotsmotion-controlpath-planningsafety-standardsUniversal Robots releases the UR15, its fastest cobot yet
robotcobotautomationcollaborative-roboticsindustrial-roboticsproductivitymotion-controlElmo Motion Control presents technology innovations at upcoming shows
robotmotion-controlroboticsautomationEtherCATservo-drivestechnology-innovations