Introduction

Humanoid robots are professional service robots built to mimic human motion and interaction. Like all service robots, they provide value by automating tasks in a way that leads to cost-savings and productivity. Humanoid robots are a relatively new form of professional service robot. While long-dreamt about, they're now starting to become commercially viable in a wide range of applications.

Humanoid robots are being used in the inspection, maintenance and disaster response at power plants to relieve human workers of laborious and dangerous tasks. Similarly, they're prepared to take over routine tasks for astronauts in space travel. Other diverse applications include providing companionship for the elderly and sick, acting as a guide and interacting with customers in the role of receptionist, and potentially even being a host for the growth of human transplant organs.

Humanoid robots are learning and adapting faster than ever before, using artificial intelligence models to perceive, sense, plan, and autonomously perform complex tasks in wide range of settings. These robots are equipped with sophisticated actuators, sensors, and on-robot compute and software that help them move and interact to mimic human dexterity, and even self-navigate. Robots are taught various movements and responses within simulated environments so they can handle the unpredictability of real-world scenarios.

Components of Humanoid Robots

1. Mechanical Structure:

• Your humanoid robot's body mimics human anatomy. It has a head, torso, arms, and legs, designed to function in human-made spaces. Lightweight materials like aluminum and carbon fiber keep it strong but agile.
• Actuators and motors work like muscles and joints, enabling movement. Electric, hydraulic, or pneumatic actuators power the limbs. For example, iCub uses tendon-driven joints for precise hand and shoulder movement.

2. Sensors and Perception Systems:

Your robot needs to see, hear, and feel to interact with its surroundings.

• Cameras act as eyes, helping with object recognition and navigation.
• Microphones detect sounds, making speech recognition and environmental awareness possible.
• Tactile sensors in the hands measure pressure and texture, allowing safe and precise gripping.
• IMUs (Inertial Measurement Units) use gyroscopes and accelerometers to keep balance.

3. Control Systems:

• Your robot's CPU is its brain. It processes data from sensors and controls movements. Complex algorithms help it adapt to changes in the environment. iCub, for example, uses an onboard controller for real-time processing.

4. Power Supply:

• Humanoid robots run on rechargeable lithium-ion batteries. These batteries balance weight and power efficiency. The Nao robot, for instance, uses a 48.6 Wh battery, providing 90 minutes of operation per charge.