Actuation Technology Overview

The recent AI breakthroughs are rapidly expanding the tasks humanoid and other robots can accomplish. But for these robots to reach mass deployment in unstructured settings, they need a parallel breakthrough in how they physically interact with the world: Actuators. Most of today's robots move using technology invented between about 200 BCE (planetary gears) and 1957 CE (strain wave reducers). While these solutions have served well in the past, they are reaching their limits as robots demand even more efficient, powerful, reliable, and low-cost precision actuators.

The Exodus Actuation gear design, formerly thought impossible under traditional gear theory, uses a gear mesh with 10X lower sliding friction that conventional gears. This order of magnitude reduction in sliding friction yields high efficiency, high backdriveability, and in some applications can enable injection molded plastic gears to replace metal gears. High efficiency translates into lower power consumption, longer operating time, and more high-speed continuous output. Backdrivability enables smooth, natural motion, increases safety and reliability, and can reduce the need for costly sensors. Because gearing represents the single largest cost center in humanoid robotics, switching from precision metal gears to low cost injection molded plastic gears can have a material impact on the affordability and large-scale adoption of humanoid robots.

Exodus Actuation Solutions Inc. (formerly 1478021 B.C. Ltd.) owns or licenses 36 issued and pending patents covering its Exodus Actuation gearbox and high performance motor lines. These technologies have been tested and successfully used in applications including robotics, automotive, and packaging companies worldwide. Exodus is committed to demonstrating and realizing the full potential of its breakthrough technology to unlock the performance humanoid robots need to move from labs into homes, factories, and daily life.