Robotics technology is penetrating manufacturing, logistics, and medical fields at an unprecedented rate, with market demands for robot performance (e.g., payload-to-weight ratio, motion smoothness, trajectory accuracy) continually increasing. The core technology lies in the precise, rapid, and coordinated control of multi-axis joints. Common industry challenges include: 1) High Torque Density: Achieving high torque output within extremely limited joint space to support lightweight designs. 2) Low Cogging Torque & Smoothness: Ensuring smooth multi-axis linkage and low-speed stability, crucial for collaborative robots and applications like painting or welding. 3) High Dynamic Response: Joint motors must have low rotor inertia and high overload capacity for rapid acceleration/deceleration and precise trajectory tracking. 4) High Integration: Integrating the motor, reducer, encoder, driver, and even brakes to simplify wiring and structure.
AKT Product Solution
AKT provides specialized, integrated drive modules for robotic joints, strategically focusing on Brushless DC Motors (BLDC) and Hybrid Stepper Motors.
- High Torque Density Joint Solution:
The primary requirement for robotic joints is maximizing torque in a minimal volume. Our high torque density BLDC motor series, utilizing high-energy-product magnetic materials, multi-pole electromagnetic designs, and optimized thermal structures, delivers exceptional continuous and peak torque capabilities.
To achieve high transmission ratios and rigidity, we integrate these BLDC motors with our Precision Planetary Gearboxes. Our planetary gearbox series features high torsional stiffness, low backlash (down to ≤5 arc-minutes), and high efficiency (single-stage >96%), making them the ideal choice for high-precision robotic joints. - Motion Smoothness & End-Effector Solution:
Addressing the high demand for smoothness and low-speed stability in collaborative robots, our BLDC motors are specially optimized for low cogging torque. When paired with our FOC-based BLDC drivers, they achieve servo-like smooth operation.
For auxiliary axes or end-effectors, our Hybrid Stepper Motors (especially compact NEMA 17, 23 models) offer a high-performance, cost-effective option. They provide high holding torque, and with our stepper drivers’ micro-stepping, they achieve fine positioning. For grippers that must prevent dropping, our Closed-Loop Stepper System ensures absolute reliability. - System Integration & Customization:
We deeply understand the integration challenges in robotics and offer extensive customization. This includes hollow shaft designs (for cable pass-through), custom motor flanges and shafts for perfect reducer matching, and the integration of high-precision absolute encoders and power-off brakes. Our driver products support major industrial buses (EtherCAT, CANopen), enabling high-speed synchronous control of multiple joints and greatly simplifying the robot’s control system architecture.
Typical Application Equipment Examples
- Collaborative Robot (Cobot) Joints:
Cobot joints must be small, light, and high-torque, with exceptionally smooth motion for safety and precise interaction. Our integrated joint modules, consisting of low-voltage BLDC motors (e.g., 48VDC) and low-backlash planetary gearboxes, combined with FOC-based drivers, provide the necessary high torque density and low torque ripple, perfectly matching cobot design requirements. - Logistics Robots (AGV/AMR) Drive Wheels:
AGV/AMR drive wheels demand high efficiency (for battery life), high torque (for start-stop and climbing), and precise speed control. Our BLDC motor and planetary gearbox integrated drive assembly is compact and can be directly integrated into the wheel hub. The accompanying low-voltage BLDC driver supports the CANopen bus, facilitating easy communication with the AGV’s main ECU for high-precision differential steering and motion planning. - End-Effectors (Electric Grippers):
Electric grippers require precise control of clamping force (torque) and position. Our small hybrid stepper motors (e.g., NEMA 14, 17) or small BLDC motors provide high torque and resolution. The closed-loop stepper system is particularly effective, using encoder feedback to achieve closed-loop control of gripper position and force, preventing damage to workpieces.
Summary
We have a profound understanding of the special requirements for core components in the robotics industry. AKT leverages its deep experience in motor design and manufacturing to actively engage in co-development with robot manufacturers. We provide in-depth customization services, including custom flanges, hollow-shaft structures, electrical parameter optimization, and accessory integration (encoders, brakes), committed to delivering high-performance, highly integrated, and long-term reliable joint drive solutions for the global robotics industry.