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Humanoid Robot: The capabilities and challenges

Explore the world of humanoid robots and how igus are helping within this industry

Humanoid robot manufacturing will probably be the fastest-growing industry in the world over the next ten years. Integrators, manufacturers and developers are all working to make the technology available for widespread commercial use.

But this rapidly growing industry comes with its challenges. This page explores how humanoid robots affect our day to day working life and how the technology involved is ever evolving.

How advanced are humanoid robots?

Unlike traditional industrial robots, which are specifically designed and optimised for particular environments, the humanoid robots are intended to operate in spaces designed for humans. The more complex the humanoid robot, the more complex the technology and the programming. Many robots now include speech, gesture recognition, and physical contact, all of which require reliable inference. And above all, there is a strict safety constraint that needs to be considered.

Despite all the recent progress, humanoid robots still suffer from limitations in energy density, performance and system cost. Research continues to focus on improved technologies, which allow us to increase and accelerate development however more research needs to be invested in and as the pressure to deliver these life like human robots increases, so does the additional pressure of delivering them in a cost-effective manner.

Humanoid robot typing on a laptop in a futuristic lab.
Humanoid robots carry a tray and a crate of components.

Humanoid robot from igus

We present the next big step in robotics: the development of our first humanoid robot called Iggy Rob!

Using state-of-the-art technologies and a combination of powerful components such as the ReBeL cobots for the robot arms and the ReBeLMove mobile base, we have created a holistic solution for smooth movements and natural interactions.

Learn moreShop the igus humanoid robot

Areas our products are used in humanoid robots

PTFE-free iglidur plain bearings in standard versions, with PFAS tested marking.

For use in fingers, for example

iglidur plain bearings

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Compact igus harmonic gear motor with a round flange and connection cables.

For use in elbows, shoulders

drygear strain wave gear

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Rod end KARM-ES-06-G-EK with threaded stud.

For use in arms, for example

igubal rod ends

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drylin N linear guide with carriage and mounting plate.

For use in arms and legs

drylin N low-profile guide system

More information
Round iglidur E semi-finished product in beige.

Individual components

iglidur bar stock materials

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Autonomous mobile robot platform with orange and black housing on a white background.

For movement

Revel move pro

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Customer applications of humanoid robots

User report- Humanoid robot hand

What was used: igubal® spherical bearings

Requirements: AIDIN Robotics needed durable and precise bearings. The standard rod end from igubal® has an outer diameter of 9mm, but AIDIN required an outer diameter of 7mm to meet their design specifications.

Success for the customer: We machined the bearing housing according to AIDIN's requirements and delivered a customised solution with a short throughput, highlighting how versatile igus standard parts are and how easy to tailor to specific applications.

Frequently asked questions regarding humanoid robots

A humanoid robot is a robot based on the human body. It acts similarly to that of a human and has greater freedom of movement compared to conventional robots, interacting naturally with their surroundings and environment.

The purpose of humanoid robots are to resemble human movement and behaviours. They can be used in a huge variety of applications and industries. Industries can include;

  • Healthcare
  • Education and research
  • Retail and service industry
  • Design and production
  • Disaster assistance
  • Entertainment

Humanoid means human-like, meaning something that resembles a human form; such as a head, a torso, even human movement and interaction.

Humanoid robots are practical in many applications and industries today, and will inevitably be used in more applications in the future. Current industries include; healthcare, manufacturing and logistics, and hospitality.

Yes, you can buy humanoid robots.

The RBTX marketplace offers many different humanoid robots to buy. They also supply humanoid dogs, hand grippers, as well as over 900 automation solutions.

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