In our rapidly evolving world, where robotics and automated processes play an ever-expanding role – whether in manufacturing, our homes, or delivery platforms – the demand for cost-effective, highly accurate, and reliable performance is paramount. 

Creating humanoid robots is a complex process that requires a range of disciplines – mechanical engineering, electronics, computer science, and artificial intelligence – all playing their part. One of the key challenges in this area is maintaining balance and implementing advanced sensor systems for perceiving diverse environments.  

Westwood Robotics’ THEMIS humanoid was designed for safe interaction with the environment and for dynamic motions such as walking, running and even parkour manoeuvres. It embodies their vision of integrating versatile humanoid robots into the world to perform general-purpose tasks with human-like finesse.

HBK's contribution to humanoid robotics 

MicroStrain’s 3DM-CV7-AHRS (attitude and heading reference system) inertial sensor was integrated into THEMIS, to provide information about the robot’s orientation – roll, pitch, and yaw – and its acceleration.  

The real-time accuracy of this information, delivered in a lightweight and compact design, serves multiple functions such as stabilising the robot, fine-tuning its orientation, and enabling precise navigation.  

Xiaoguang Zhang, Founder and CEO of Westwood Robotics says, “What sets it apart is its ability to deliver reliable data at an impressive speed of 1 kHz, a crucial factor for real-time applications. The sensor elevates our experience in development and experiments, providing unparalleled accuracy and responsiveness in every interaction."