In a recent demonstration, Tokyo Robotics showed off its latest humanoid robot, Torobo, which performs a seemingly simple but technically challenging task: hammering a nail into a piece of wood with precision. This demonstration highlights the potential of humanoid robots in industrial applications, especially in tasks that require high precision and dexterity.
Impressive capabilities
The dimensions of Torobo, which are 1660 mm, accurately repeat human proportions. The robot arm can support up to 8 kg in a less than optimal position and 20 kg at maximum effort when the elbow is bent at a right angle. This capability implies significant potential to replace human labor in certain industrial settings.
According to Tokyo Robotics, the robot's actions are much simpler than they seem. The instantaneous force of hammer rebound is absorbed by a combination of rubber elasticity, torque sensor deflections, harmonic gears and impedance control for precise and controlled movements.
Advanced management systems
Torobo's torque control system, equipped with torque sensors in all joints of the arms and waist, ensures safe and precise performance of tasks. This system allows the worker to perform tasks related to assembly, preparation of food and physical interaction with people in a safer and more efficient manner.
The robot configuration includes 7-axis dual arms, 3-axis waist, 3-axis neck, and 4-axis mobile base, allowing it to operate within the human range of motion in residential and work environments.
Research and development
Designed to accelerate research into industrial applications of full-body humanoid robots, Torobo is ideal for studying the automation of tasks that involve active interaction with people, environments and objects. It is also suitable for studying next-generation bimanual robots, machine learning applications in robotics, and force-controlled robot applications.
Torobo uses the Noitom Perception Neuron PRO motion capture system, which is used for motion training, machine learning, and remote control applications. This system prevents singularities, protects against self-interference, and includes torque limiting functions when the robot is physically constrained.
World achievements in robotics
In addition to Torobo, Japanese robotics has achieved notable achievements, such as setting a new world record for completing the Rubik's Cube. The Mitsubishi Electric robot completed the task in 0.305 seconds, significantly faster than the previous record and ten times faster than the fastest human.
Future consequences
The advances in humanoid robotics demonstrated by Torobo point to a future where robots can perform a variety of industrial tasks with high precision and safety. As technology advances, the integration of such robots into industrial and domestic settings is likely to become more common, leading to increased efficiency and new opportunities for automation and human-robot interaction.
Humanoid robots like Torobo are setting new standards in industrial automation, demonstrating the potential to perform tasks accurately and efficiently. As research and development in this field continues, we can expect even more ground-breaking innovations that will redefine the role of robots in our daily lives.
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