Schaeffler, widely recognized as The Motion Technology Company, is making noteworthy advances in the field of humanoid robots. Building on decades of experience in motion technology, the company is positioning itself as a key partner for that sector and at the core of this ambition are its high-performance electric motors, developed specifically to meet the unique demands of human-like machines.
Electric motors serve as the heart of movement in humanoid robots. Schaeffler’s recent innovations focus on delivering motors that combine power, precision, and scalability. In practical terms, this means these motors offer a high power density, having originally been developed for electric mobility solutions. This characteristic allows humanoid robots that use Schaeffler’s technology not only to mimic dynamic human movements but also to retain a compact and lightweight structure—two attributes critical for both efficiency and realistic motion.
Another central feature of these new electric motors is their scalable design. Schaeffler has ensured that the same core motor technology can be adapted and customized for a wide variety of robotic applications, whether powering the nimble fingers of robotic hands or the robust joints of legs and torsos. This scalability gives manufacturers flexibility to engineer robots for different purposes without sacrificing performance or reliability.
Integration is a further strength of Schaeffler’s offering. The company does not focus only on the motors themselves but also provides elegantly integrated power electronics. With space a premium in robotic joints and limbs, the compactness of these electronics ensures precise motion control and quick responsiveness, vital for coordinated, human-like actions.
The merger with Vitesco Technologies has significantly increased Schaeffler’s technological reach. This collaboration brings together diverse expertise: Schaeffler now bundles electric motors, high-precision gear reducers for smooth articulation, ball screw and planetary roller screw actuators for controlled linear movements, and advanced sensors for enhanced feedback and environmental awareness. These integrated solutions are indispensable for the sophisticated applications found in contemporary humanoid robots.
Schaeffler’s electric motor systems are not just theoretical—they are already operating in the company’s own manufacturing environments. Here, humanoid robots equipped with Schaeffler’s motors collaborate with humans on various tasks, providing valuable feedback on what is needed for durability, energy efficiency, and robust performance in industrial contexts. This direct experience informs the development process, ensuring that solutions are rigorously tested and ready for real-world deployment.
