maxon unveils High Efficiency Joint 70 actuator for dynamic robots

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maxon’s new High Efficiency Joint HEJ 70-48-50 provides 50 Nm
and 28 rad/s at the joint. | Credit: maxon

maxon today launched its High Efficiency Joint (HEJ) 70-48-50, the newest addition to the company’s High Efficiency Robotic Joints portfolio. maxon said this advanced actuator sets new standards in torque density and efficiency. The HEJ 70-48-50 is designed for a variety of autonomous mobile robots that work in unstructured environments, including humanoids, quadrupeds, exoskeletons, and mobile manipulators.

The HEJ 70-48-50 delivers a peak torque of 50 Nm and reaches speeds up to 28 rad/s, all while maintaining a mass just above 1 kg. maxon said the compact design and high torque density make the HEJ 70-48-50 ideal for mobile manipulation tasks, offering roboticists a powerful yet lightweight solution.

“The HEJ 70 represents a significant leap forward in actuator technology for dynamic robotics,” said Stefan Müller, CTO, maxon. “By combining unmatched efficiency and systems integration with a lightweight and compact design, we’re enabling our customers to push the boundaries of what’s possible in autonomous mobile robots.”

maxon’s High Efficiency Joints combine torque-dense electric motors, planetary gears, electronics, sensing and support structures into highly compact, IP67-rated and EtherCAT-controlled robotic actuators. Integrated heat sinks and cross-roller bearings facilitate deep systems integration.

maxon is broadening the High Efficiency Joint platform. There are currently two systems available: The HEJ 90 (140 Nm, 2 kg) and HEJ 70 (50 Nm, 1 kg). | Credit: maxon

According to maxon, the control system can be configured flexibly and supports various topologies for impedance control of the joint. While the new HEJ 70-48-50 is well-suited for mobile manipulation or smaller robots, the larger HEJ 90-48-140 targets locomotion or propulsion systems. maxon said key actuator features for autonomous mobile robots are high robustness, low mechanical inertia, good backdriveability, and high efficiency.

These systems enable roboticists to create high-performing and reliable robots, following modern design principles dictated by deep reinforcement learning and related simulation approaches. maxon said fast-moving robotics companies should focus on their core robotics value drivers and challenges, while maxon handles key complexities typically associated with robotics actuators, such as high performance, reliability, supply chains, integration, and testing.

The HEJ 70-48-50 will begin shipping in early Q2 2025. Click here to find the full datasheet and learn more about how the HEJ 70-48-50 actuator can enhance your robotic applications.

maxon also recently released an ultra-compact, programmable multi-axis motion controller for up to six axes. The maxon MicroMACS6 master controller provides high performance motion control in a package just 55mm long, enhancing embedded design integration for robot and machine builders. Integration flexibility is achieved with communications interface options including USB, CANopen, and EtherCAT.