Permanent magnet materials in humanoid robot motors: the core technology driving future smart manufacturing
As a fusion of artificial intelligence and precision machinery, humanoid robots are highly dependent on high-performance motor systems. As the “heart” of the magnetic field of the motor, permanent magnetic materials (e.g., NdFeB, SmCo) play an irreplaceable role in improving efficiency, reducing volume and enhancing reliability. In this paper, we will discuss the application scenarios, technical advantages and future trends of permanent magnet materials in humanoid robot motors.
Typical application scenarios of permanent magnet materials in humanoid robot motors
1. Joint drive motors
Hip/knee joints: hundreds of Nm of torque output is required, and the curved NdFeB magnets with multi-pole magnetization are used to optimize the distribution of the magnetic circuit in order to reduce the cogging torque and ensure smooth motion.
Shoulder/elbow joints: thin sintered magnets (thickness ≤ 5 mm) are used to reduce weight and adapt to high speed rotation.
2. Dexterity drive motors
Miniature hollow cup motor: Built-in 0.3mm ultra-thin magnetic sheet supports millimeter-level displacement accuracy for finger joints.
Multi-degree-of-freedom joints: Reduced torque fluctuations and delicate gripping motions through 12+ poles multi-pole magnetization technology.
3. Balance and attitude control motors
Waist slewing motor: adopts high temperature resistant SmCo magnets (200°C+), combined with magnetic encoder feedback to realize 0.01° angle control precision.
Foot drive system: low eddy current loss magnet design reduces heat generation and adapts to long time dynamic balance.