Humanoid robots are very expensive but there are other alternatives

Robotics is experiencing a golden age of innovation and development, with humanoid robots capturing the attention of the public and companies. Tech giants such as Tesla, Boston Dynamics and Agility Robotics among others are betting on these machines with a human appearance, promising a revolution in sectors such as manufacturing, healthcare and others.

However, the fascination with humanoid robots comes with a high cost, limiting their access to a select group of companies and institutions. And one of the functions of robotics is to lower costs.

A humanoid robot can cost around $100,000, a figure that makes them unattainable for most. This price is justified, in part, by the complexity of its design. More than 25 motors and actuators, along with a sophisticated software architecture, are necessary to emulate the dexterity and range of movement of the human body.

Elon Musk, with his usual boldness, has promised a future where his Optimus robot sells for $20,000. However, history has taught us to be cautious with the tech mogul’s predictions. Even if this price were to materialize (something that is very far from happening), it would still be a barrier for many.

The reality is that not all robotic applications require the complexity of a humanoid design. In many cases, form follows function, and a human-like robot may be overkill. This is where alternatives come into play, solutions that prioritize efficiency and accessibility without sacrificing functionality.

One example I wish to comment on is that of ObotX, a company that has developed a compelling alternative to humanoid robots at a tentative price of $4,000. Its proposal is based on a manipulation system and actuators mounted on an AMR (Autonomous Mobile Robot), combining the flexibility of a robotic arm with the mobility of an autonomous platform.

The main advantages of this proposal are:

. Accessibility: Its significantly lower price opens the doors to automation for small and medium-sized businesses that previously could not afford it.

. Modularity: The design allows the system to be adapted to the specific needs of each task.

. Open source: By using an open source system, ObotX facilitates collaboration between developers and the creation of customized solutions.

A demonstration video can be seen at: https://youtu.be/cr1q8plvLYg

Which reveals the versatility of this platform. The robot is capable of performing a variety of movements and manipulating objects with precision, demonstrating its potential in sectors such as logistics, light manufacturing, etc…

The future of robotics is a very diverse ecosystem. It is important to note that alternatives to humanoid robots do not seek to completely replace them. Humanoid robots can be crucial in certain areas such as certain industrial applications, space exploration, etc….

However, the democratization of robotics involves offering diverse solutions that adapt to the needs and possibilities of each user.

In this sense, ObotX’s proposal represents an important step towards a future where robotics is an accessible tool for everyone. Its pragmatic approach, based on efficiency and modularity, will help evolve the way we interact with technology and automate our lives.

In conclusion, while the expectation for humanoid robots continues, it is crucial not to lose sight of the innovative alternatives that are emerging on the horizon. These solutions promise a future where robotics is more accessible, efficient and at the service of the real needs of society.