HANOVER, Germany — Schaeffler has received the Hermes Award for its highly integrated actuator platform designed for humanoid robots, the company announced at Hannover Messe on April 19. The award, presented by Federal Research Minister Dorothee Bar and Chancellor Friedrich Merz, recognizes innovations that integrate mechanical engineering with artificial intelligence. Schaeffler's platform, which combines electric motors, power electronics, and precision encoders with flexible gearing options, aims to address the cost barrier in humanoid robotics by reducing actuator expenses, which account for roughly half of a humanoid's total cost.
The actuator platform includes rotary actuators for joints such as shoulders, elbows, and knees, featuring a bearing-integrated rotor that reduces installation footprint by 20% and weight by up to 500 grams. This design, 10 mm more compact than alternatives, delivers high continuous torque while enabling natural movement sequences. Schaeffler plans to begin series production of components this year, leveraging its core manufacturing technologies like automated winding and chipless metal forming for 1 mm-thick bearing rings. The company's ability to scale production quickly is supported by its extensive supply chain and industrialization expertise.
Georg F. W. Schaeffler, Chairman of the Supervisory Board, stated: “With our highly integrated actuator platform, we are setting new benchmarks in this growth area by combining our decades-long technology expertise with our excellent track record in industrialization.” CEO Klaus Rosenfeld added: “There’s barely any other technology at Schaeffler that illustrates more effectively the immense potential behind this concept than actuator technology.” The platform will be showcased at Booth E60 in Hall 13 during Hannover Messe from April 20 to 24. More information is available at Schaeffler at the Hannover Messe 2026.
The Hermes Award underscores Schaeffler's position as a key component supplier in humanoid robotics, a segment poised for growth as industries seek automation solutions. By offering modular, cost-effective actuators, Schaeffler aims to enable large-scale deployment of humanoid robots in manufacturing and logistics. The company's focus on integrating AI with mechanical systems aligns with broader trends in smart manufacturing. This recognition also highlights the strategic importance of motion technology in advancing robotics, building on Schaeffler's 80-year history of innovation in bearing and driveline systems.
