Robotic Actuators
A robotic actuator is a unit that combines a brushless DC motor, a planetary gearbox, the driver board and the encoder in one housing. Because no separate driver box, separate wiring or separate gearbox connection is needed, building a robot arm or leg becomes much faster.
CubeMars robotic actuators come from the AK and AKH series. Rated torque runs from 1.3 Nm to 74 Nm and peak torque from 4.1 Nm to 222 Nm. KV values range from 41 to 170 rpm/V.
When choosing, size your continuous working load by rated torque and starts and impacts by peak torque. A higher gear ratio means more torque and less speed, and ratios of 9:1 or more are common in legged robot joints.
Because the AKH series has a hollow shaft, cables can run through the joint, which is a big advantage in the hips and ankles of humanoid robots.
Choosing a motor
The most common questions when comparing products in this category.
What is the difference between rated and peak torque?
Rated torque is what the motor can deliver continuously without overheating, so size your system to it. Peak torque is the upper limit it can withstand for short periods. Look at peak torque for starts and impacts, and rated torque for continuous operation.
What does the KV value mean?
KV is the number of revolutions per volt. A low KV means more torque and less speed, and a high KV the opposite. With the same frame, the KV choice sets the speed and torque balance of your application.
How should I choose the gear ratio?
A gearbox increases torque and reduces speed. Applications that need high torque at low speed, like a legged robot joint, favor a high ratio (36:1, 48:1), and those that need fast response favor a low ratio (6:1, 9:1). If you are not sure, send us your target torque and speed.
Frameless motor or integrated actuator?
In integrated actuators (AK, AKH) the driver, encoder and gearbox are inside the motor, and they run over CAN straight out of the box. The AKE series combines motor and gearbox and uses an external driver. Frameless motors (RI, RO) are just a rotor and stator that you build into your own mechanics, and they need an external driver. Choose frameless for tight spaces or custom designs, and integrated for quick installation.
How do I use the filters?
In the filter panel you can narrow down by series, gear ratio, peak torque, KV, no-load speed, weight and price. On desktop the panel sits to the left of the list, and on mobile it opens with the Filter button. Products without a value for a filter drop out when you apply it, so we recommend starting broad and narrowing step by step.
Not sure which to choose?Ask the technical team
