Industry Briefing
A single destination for timely, editor-curated robotics news from around the world.
Juri Sudheimer Discusses MANNOL's Development of Fluids for Electric Vehicles
The rise of electric vehicles (EVs) is transforming the automotive landscape, necessitating new lubricant requirements. Juri Sudheimer, founder of MANNOL, highlights that operating fluids are now essential to the system architecture of EVs, managing friction, heat dissipation, and component protection simultaneously. This shift demands specialized solutions tailored to specific configurations and electrical loads, moving away from the concept of a universal oil. As EVs and hybrids integrate power electronics with traditional mechanical systems, the need for advanced lubricants becomes critical. Sudheimer notes that the evolution of e-transmission fluids presents unique challenges, including fluid degradation that affects electrical properties and increases noise and vibration (NVH). This complexity requires a new testing philosophy focused on electrical stability and material compatibility, alongside traditional anti-wear performance. Looking ahead, the automotive industry must adapt to these evolving lubricant needs as electrification continues to reshape market dynamics. No further timeline was disclosed at the time of publication.
Engineering Industry automotive aftermarket automotive engineering automotive lubricants battery cooling
Rosatom's 370-ton Shelf-M Nuclear Reactor Achieves Investment Justification Milestone
Rosatom has completed the investment justification phase for its first land-based small modular reactor at the Sovinoye gold deposit. This milestone finalizes the technical-economic review and sets the regulatory framework for manufacturing and deployment in the Far East region. Local site surveys are currently in progress, and the nuclear fuel has successfully passed its operational endurance testing. The significance of this development lies in the Shelf-M reactor's capabilities, which include generating 10 MW of electrical power and 35 MW of thermal power for a lifespan of 60 years. Construction is slated to commence in 2027, with the reactor expected to start operations in 2030 and achieve full commercial operation by 2032. The reactor's design allows for centralized manufacturing, enhancing efficiency and transportability across Arctic environments. Looking ahead, the Shelf-M microreactor's innovative design features a channel-type core architecture and a unique cross-shaped fuel rod configuration, which improves thermal transfer efficiency. The reactor's passive cooling system ensures safe heat dissipation, allowing it to operate effectively without reliance on backup power sources. No further timeline was disclosed at the time of publication.
Energy
LimX Dynamics unveils Luna humanoid robot with AI dance learning
On Monday, LimX Dynamics introduced the LimX Luna humanoid robot, which is priced at RMB 298,000 (approximately $41,000). The robot, measuring 160 centimeters in height, boasts 27 degrees of freedom, allowing for a wide range of movements. It is equipped with the company’s second-generation SYS 0 motion control engine, enhancing its performance. Additionally, the LimX Luna features improved cooling systems and extended battery life, enabling it to support multimodal interactions. This launch marks a significant advancement in humanoid robotics, reflecting LimX Dynamics' commitment to innovation in the field.
News FeedRobotics needs a service framework.
RSF defines a common language for robot service capability, lifecycle operations, certification pathways, and service-provider networks.
