Humanoid Robot Actuator Commonality for Lower Cost Maintenance
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional humanoid robots face limitations in range of motion, power efficiency, and overall functionality, and rely on highly specialized components that increase production complexity, cost, and maintenance challenges, hindering their deployment in human-centric environments.
Innovation Solution
A humanoid robot design featuring a body structure with 42 electric actuators of varying torque ratings and configurations, including a combination of brushless DC motors, optical encoders, and strain wave gearboxes, optimized for precise control and energy efficiency, and integrated with real-time sensor feedback loops and control systems.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If conventional humanoid robots use highly specialized components, then performance and functionality are improved, but production complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies universality by using standardized actuator components across multiple robot joints and applications. The same actuator models are deployed in various locations (torso, limbs, fingers) performing different functions, eliminating the need for highly specialized components at each joint while maintaining overall system functionality and adaptability
2Adaptability or versatility
If conventional humanoid robots use highly specialized components, then performance and functionality are improved, but manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent reduces manufacturing cost through universality by procuring and deploying identical actuator components across multiple joints. This standardized approach enables bulk purchasing, simplified supply chain management, and reduced per-unit cost while maintaining the robot's advanced functionality and adaptability
3Adaptability or versatility
If conventional humanoid robots use highly specialized components, then performance is improved, but maintenance challenges increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent addresses maintenance challenges through universality by using identical actuator components throughout the robot system. This standardization means that maintenance personnel need to master only one component type for repairs, spare parts inventory is simplified, and replacement procedures are standardized across all joints, significantly reducing maintenance complexity despite maintaining high functionality
Data Source
AI summary
A humanoid robot comprising an upper portion with a torso, left elbow, left fingertip, and actuators including four electrical actuators between the left elbow and fingertip (each with motor peak torque below 0.12 Nm), and two electrical actuators between the torso and left elbow (each with motor peak torque above 1.3 Nm). A lower portion includes a shin with an electrical actuator having motor peak torque above 0.75 Nm. A central portion between the upper and lower portions includes a pelvis with a hip flex electrical actuator directly coupled to the pelvis having motor peak torque above 3.5 Nm.