Industry Briefing
A single destination for timely, editor-curated robotics news from around the world.
LG Electronics Focuses on Robotic Actuators and B2B Appliances for Growth
LG Electronics is positioning its robotic actuators as a key growth engine, nearing a potential major order from a global technology leader. Baek Seung-tae, head of LG's home appliance division, announced that the company has developed efficient, lightweight, and cost-competitive actuators, with plans for mass production. A final meeting with a prospective client is scheduled for next month, indicating LG's commitment to securing significant orders soon. The significance of this move lies in LG's ambition to scale its actuator business to match the success of its air conditioning compressors within one to two years. The company is set to establish a fully automated production line in Changwon by the end of this year, aligning its actuator strategy with its broader robotics initiatives. Baek anticipates a surge in demand for physical artificial intelligence, particularly humanoid robots, starting in 2030, with plans for deployment in LG's Tennessee plant and Changwon smart factory. Looking ahead, LG's actuator technology, which could represent 60-70 percent of total robot costs, is crucial for the company's future in robotics. While LG is still developing its reducer technology, it is exploring both internal and external sourcing options. As competition intensifies, Baek noted that Chinese appliance manufacturers may struggle to maintain low-price strategies, which could impact their global market share.
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HEBI Robotics Secures NASA Contract to Create Compact Actuators for Small Satellites
HEBI Robotics has received a Phase I contract from NASA’s Small Business Innovation Research program to develop compact robotic actuators for small satellites. This initiative aims to design miniature actuators capable of generating significant force while fitting within the constraints of spacecraft, particularly CubeSats, where space and weight are critical factors. The significance of this project lies in its potential to address the limitations of existing robotic hardware, which is often too large or lacks the necessary flexibility for advanced operations. As the commercial space industry grows, there is an increasing demand for affordable and reliable robotic systems that can perform effectively in harsh environments, as highlighted by HEBI Robotics’ director of hardware, Andrew Willig. Looking ahead, the contract, funded through NASA’s SBIR Ignite program, will extend through December 2026. HEBI Robotics plans to explore various motor and gearbox designs to create a compact actuator suitable for space missions, while also considering applications in industrial and field robotics, leveraging technology that can withstand extreme conditions.
Components News Space actuators aerospace commercial space
HEBI Robotics Secures NASA SBIR Grant to Accelerate Miniaturized Actuator Development
HEBI Robotics has announced the acquisition of a NASA Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Phase I contract aimed at advancing its miniaturized high torque density modular actuators. This initiative targets applications in SmallSats and challenging environments, responding to the growing demand for affordable and versatile robotic systems in commercial space endeavors. The significance of this contract lies in its potential to enhance the flexibility and reliability of actuation hardware in space-limited environments, such as CubeSats. HEBI aims to bridge the gap between low-cost hobby servos and expensive custom-designed space robotics, ensuring ruggedness without sacrificing performance, as emphasized by Andrew Willig, HEBI’s director of hardware. Looking ahead, the Phase I award is set to continue until December 2026, allowing HEBI to explore innovative actuation solutions. The company also plans to further develop its existing actuation hardware, making it suitable for both space and terrestrial applications, thereby appealing to a broader market seeking modular actuation solutions for demanding environments.
Actuators / Motors / Servos Aerospace Markets / Industries Motion Control News Hebi Robotics
Humanoid Robotics Industry Shifts Towards Commercial Adoption of Actuators by 2026-2027
The humanoid robotics sector is moving from prototype development to structured pilot deployments and early commercial adoption. According to the IDTechEx report, 'Materials for Humanoid Robots 2026-2036: Technologies, Players, Forecasts,' the years 2026-2027 are expected to be pivotal as more companies transition from pilot testing to production readiness and initial rollouts. Actuators, which enable humanoid robots to perform tasks such as walking and lifting, are central to this technology. The report forecasts a 47 percent compound annual growth rate (CAGR) for humanoid unit sales over the next decade, presenting significant opportunities for materials manufacturers and component suppliers. Typically, a humanoid robot contains around 31 actuators, with the weight of these components constituting approximately 56 percent of the robot's total weight. Looking ahead, the report highlights the importance of materials like metal alloys and rare-earth permanent magnets in actuator design. While rigid actuators are essential for precise movements, challenges such as adaptability to unstructured environments and mechanical wear remain critical issues to address. No further timeline was disclosed at the time of publication.
Features Humanoids actuator technology electric actuators humanoid robot actuators humanoid robot components
How to Build Better Robotics with Integrated Actuators
Reese Abouelnasr, a Mechatronics Engineer at Harmonic Drive, recently discussed advancements in actuator technology and the engineering challenges these devices address in the field of robotics. In an interview, Abouelnasr highlighted the significance of actuators in enhancing the precision and efficiency of robotic systems. He elaborated on how recent innovations are enabling engineers to overcome obstacles related to motion control and energy consumption. The conversation took place in October 2023, reflecting the ongoing evolution of robotics and the critical role that actuator design plays in the industry. Abouelnasr emphasized that these developments not only improve performance but also expand the potential applications of robotics across various sectors.
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