WAREHOUSING, STORAGE & LOGISTICS INMOCO
What does it take to bring humanoid robots from concept to reality?
Gerard Bush, sales manager at motion specialist INMOCO explores the journey from designing humanoid robots to delivering them for practical use,
T
he human body is remarkable for its ability to navigate diverse environments, handle complex tasks, and adapt to varied
conditions. These capabilities make it an ideal model for humanoid robots, which are increasingly essential and machine precision must coexist.
BRIDGING AUTOMATION GAPS In many advanced manufacturing and industrial environments, humans still play a critical role in Human-centric tasks can vary daily and require a level lack. However, human strength and endurance have their limits, and the risk of injury is ever-present. Additionally, high turnover in demanding jobs can disrupt operations, making it clear that there’s a need for a better solution.
DESIGN CHALLENGES Creating a humanoid robot that moves like a human involves addressing numerous technical and commercial challenges. From a technical perspective, robots must have motors and actuators designed need to be compact, lightweight, and capable of delivering precise, powerful movements. For instance, motors designed for drones might seem suitable but often fail to meet the torque and speed consistency required for humanoid joints. Commercially, the design must also be
the technical requirements but is too expensive market success. To overcome these issues, a balance must be struck between performance and cost- effectiveness. Custom solutions, while ideal in terms of performance, can be prohibitively expensive and challenging to scale.
suited for these applications. Harmonic gearing provides high reduction ratios, zero backlash, compact form factors, and resilience to impact loads, making it an excellent choice for replicating human joint movements.
PROTOTYPING AND SCALING Once a joint architecture is designed, it’s crucial to evaluate whether the components can scale from prototype to full production. This involves considering the availability, functionality, and reliability of each component. Prototypes often face time and budget constraints, which can lead to suboptimal designs that need to be reworked, adding cost and delay. Involving both R&D and production teams from the beginning helps ensure that the design is manufacturable and marketable. This integrated approach can prevent costly redesigns and ensure market demands.
MANUFACTURING EXCELLENCE Humanoid robots, like all advanced machines, require precise and reliable components. For instance, frameless servo motors, such as the TBM2G from and capable of operating at lower temperatures, which enhances the reliability and longevity of the robot. They are typically available in various sizes and winding variations to optimise performance for different applications, including battery-operated robots.
roles, taking on tasks that are too dangerous or monotonous for humans, therefore freeing workers for more creative and less hazardous jobs. Over the technology have made these robots more viable. Improvements in vision systems, tactile sensors, speeds have all contributed to this progress. However, the fundamental requirement for any humanoid robot is effective motion. Without it, robots cannot
32 August 2024 Irish Manufacturing
MOTION STRATEGY An effective motion strategy starts with a thorough understanding of the requirements for each robotic joint. This includes dynamic torque and speed ranges, inertial loads, and targets for weight and installation footprint. Instead of beginning with the motor, including the gearbox architecture. This approach ensures that the motor and gear system are perfectly matched.
For humanoid robots, rotary joints are the most common, and harmonic gearing is particularly well-
TOMORROW’S WORLD The development of humanoid robots involves challenges. By adopting a strategic approach to motion design, emphasising manufacturability, and leveraging advanced technologies, it’s possible to create robots that not only mimic human Automation vendors such as Kollmorgen are at approach with the components and expertise necessary to bring these sophisticated machines from concept to reality.
grow, ongoing innovation and collaboration will be key to delivering robots that enhance productivity and safety across various industries.
www.irish-manufacturing.com
Page 1 |
Page 2 |
Page 3 |
Page 4 |
Page 5 |
Page 6 |
Page 7 |
Page 8 |
Page 9 |
Page 10 |
Page 11 |
Page 12 |
Page 13 |
Page 14 |
Page 15 |
Page 16 |
Page 17 |
Page 18 |
Page 19 |
Page 20 |
Page 21 |
Page 22 |
Page 23 |
Page 24 |
Page 25 |
Page 26 |
Page 27 |
Page 28 |
Page 29 |
Page 30 |
Page 31 |
Page 32 |
Page 33 |
Page 34 |
Page 35 |
Page 36 |
Page 37 |
Page 38 |
Page 39 |
Page 40 |
Page 41 |
Page 42 |
Page 43 |
Page 44
