Schaeffler unveils formed strain-wave gearboxes for humanoid robots
Schaeffler introduced formed strain-wave gearboxes for humanoid joints after completing validation, with mass manufacturing scheduled to begin in Germany in 2027.
Why it matters
The new process targets a major humanoid actuator cost and capacity bottleneck with validated high-volume manufacturing economics.
Evidence notes
- Schaeffler says its forming process lowers manufacturing cost by more than 25 percent and material consumption by more than 75 percent compared with conventional precision machining.
- Production is scheduled to start in Germany in 2027 before being rolled out to additional regions and humanoid manufacturers.
- The process transfers automotive manufacturing experience from more than two million formed strain-wave gearboxes supplied globally during the previous decade.
Company context
Schaeffler is a German industrial manufacturer specialising in precision motion components, including bearings, linear systems, and drivetrain technologies used across automotive and industrial sectors.