The presentation began with a thought experiment: What if we already had the perfect humanoid robot today? The answer: it would seamlessly integrate into our environment – a world created by humans for humans and robots. In reality, however, the technology is still in the early stages of its lifecycle.
Kevin Moser refers to this as the “Innovation Trigger” phase, where the first functional prototypes exist, but no commercially viable products are widely available yet. This early market phase is characterized by experimentation, strong media and investor interest, and a wide range of technical approaches – only some of which will survive. “Only the best concepts will prevail – the rest will disappear from the market,” he explains. The driving forces behind this development are clear: labor shortages and demographic change are creating a huge demand for automation. At the same time, technological advances – in generative AI, sensor and actuator technology, and battery systems – are opening up new dimensions in robotics.
Five key insights
1. Industrial applications come first
Humanoid robots will first gain a foothold in industrial settings – such as manufacturing, logistics, and automation. Here, efficiency, productivity, and the ability to compensate for labor shortages are key. A human-like appearance is secondary in these areas – which accelerates development.
2. Service applications will follow later
In areas involving direct human interaction – such as private households, healthcare, and emergency services – a human-like appearance is more important. The introduction of humanoid robots will proceed more slowly here, as the requirements for interaction, safety, and acceptance are higher.
3. We are just in the beginning stages
Humanoid robots are currently in the so-called “Innovation Trigger” phase, which means we have the first prototypes, many variants, and a great deal of interest from the media – but no products that are fully ready for the market yet. The coming years will reveal which concepts will succeed.
4. The hand is at the core
The robot’s hand is the main interface between AI and the physical world. It enables precise interaction – whether gripping, operating, or communicating. Its complexity is enormous: around 20% of all drive axes in a humanoid robot are located in the hands.
5. Drive systems are key
The multitude of joint actuators – rotary, linear, or in the hands – requires highly integrated, reliable drive solutions. This is where specialized manufacturers like FAULHABER come into play.
FAULHABER: Expertise for the robotic hand of tomorrow
As one of the leading providers of electric miniature drives, FAULHABER is already well established in markets such as hand prosthetics and gripping systems. The focus is on customized solutions tailored to the customers’ requirements.
“In the development of robotic hands, it will be crucial to closely integrate the drives in the devices,” says Kevin Moser. “Our experience with complex drive systems makes us a strong partner for the next generation of humanoid robots.”
Conclusion: The journey has just begun
Humanoid robots are at the beginning of an exciting development. Their potential is enormous – but the path to market readiness is complex. Companies like FAULHABER, with deep technical expertise and years of experience, will play a key role. Because without reliable, high-performance drives, the dream of the perfect humanoid robot will remain just that: a dream.