cross industry, humanoid robots are taking real-world roles. They are already being used in a BMW factory
in the US where they are handling repetitive and physically demanding tasks; while Hyundai has placed an order for tens of thousands from Boston Dynamics; and Tesla aims to introduce several thousand Optimus robots into its manufacturing operations. According to the International Federation of
Robotics (IFR), most current deployments are targeted at tasks in sectors like automotive and warehousing, but the long-term vision for humanoid robots includes general-purpose helpers that can do everything from loading dishwashers to assembling cars. The IFR notes that, while it’s still unclear whether humanoid robots will provide a scalable, cost-effective alternative to existing automation solutions, applications such as logistics could certainly benefit from humanoid robotics. It has been reported that Tesla’s robots are
expected to handle ‘useful things’ on the production line, starting with simple, repetitive
motions but gradually evolving to more complex tasks as the technology matures. These developments signal a major shift in industrial automation. However, their performance is essential for success: robotic limbs, joints and actuators must offer the same – or better – efficiency, reliability and precision as traditional automation. To achieve this, speciality industrial bearings are essential.
When wear increases, so does friction, leading to higher energy consumption and reduced efficiency. For this reason, precision thin- section bearings are the go-to choice in high-performance robotic environments. For harsher environments ceramic and hybrid bearings can be the alternative. For humanoid robots, size and weight are
critical. The form factor must mimic human proportions while housing a complex network of sensors, motors and mechanical joints. This is where thin-section bearings prove essential. Unlike standard bearings, thin-section variants
maintain a small difference between their inner and outer ring diameters, allowing for ultra- compact designs without sacrificing strength. This helps reduce the weight and size of robotic joints, improving agility and conserving power. These bearings are built with extreme
precision. Even minor imperfections in ring roundness can degrade performance, introduce noise or reduce joint accuracy – unacceptable outcomes in tightly controlled automation environments. Specialist bearing manufacturers like EZO ensure each thin-section bearing undergoes rigorous quality checks, guaranteeing flawless operation under repeated use.
A collaboration between SMB Bearings and Shadow Robot Company illustrates just how impactful the right bearing choice can be. Tasked with developing a high-precision Smart Grasping System, Shadow Robot needed reliable motion control in a compact, lightweight format. SMB supplied custom EZO thin-section bearings with extremely tight dimensional
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