At the recent 2025 World Manufacturing Congress, held alongside the Manufacturing Power Construction Forum, Professor Xu Shuidian, a senior engineer and academic from Xiamen University, as well as the Chairman of Transtech (Xiamen) Co., Ltd., delivered a groundbreaking presentation on how foundational hard technologies are revolutionizing the physical form of embodied intelligence. Focusing on key innovations in mechanical transmission systems, Professor Xu emphasized that while control technologies in robotics continue to advance rapidly, the “body” of embodied robots—comprising mechanical components and transmission systems—remains crucial. The precision, transmission efficiency, load capacity, longevity, and lightweight design of these elements directly determine the performance ceiling of embodied intelligence applications, making mechanical传动 innovations vital for future developments.
Embodied intelligence, which integrates artificial intelligence with physical robotic bodies to interact dynamically with environments, relies heavily on robust mechanical foundations. Professor Xu’s research highlights how breakthroughs in basic components like gears, bearings, and clutches can enhance the agility and efficiency of embodied robots, paving the way for more adaptive and capable systems. This article delves into the details of his presentation, exploring the natural inspirations and technological advances that are set to redefine embodied intelligence in manufacturing and beyond.
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The Critical Role of Mechanical Transmission in Advancing Embodied Intelligence
Mechanical transmission components form the backbone of any embodied robot, enabling movement, force application, and environmental interaction. As Professor Xu pointed out, the ongoing progress in control algorithms and AI has endowed embodied intelligence with smarter “brains,” but without corresponding advancements in the mechanical “body,” these systems cannot achieve their full potential. The efficiency of power transmission, for instance, impacts energy consumption and operational speed, while the durability of parts affects maintenance costs and lifecycle. In embodied robots, which often mimic human or animal motions, the smoothness and precision of movements depend on the quality of gears, bearings, and other传动 elements. Thus, innovations in these areas are not merely incremental; they are transformative for the entire field of embodied intelligence, allowing for more complex tasks in industries like automotive, aerospace, and personal assistance.
Moreover, the push for lightweight design in mechanical components aligns with the needs of embodied robots, which require agility and energy efficiency. By reducing weight without compromising strength, engineers can develop embodied intelligence systems that operate longer on limited power sources, such as batteries, and perform delicate maneuvers. Professor Xu’s work underscores that the integration of high-performance mechanical parts is essential for scaling embodied intelligence from laboratory prototypes to real-world applications, where reliability and cost-effectiveness are paramount.
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Inspiration from Nature: The Logarithmic Spiral Curve as a Foundation for Innovation
At the heart of Professor Xu’s research lies the logarithmic spiral curve, a geometric pattern observed widely in nature, from the arrangement of sunflower seeds and the shells of snails to the structure of galaxies. Discovered and mathematically modeled by René Descartes in 1638, this curve is characterized by a constant angle between the tangent at any point and the line connecting that point to the pole. This property of a fixed angle, often referred to as the equiangular spiral, provides unique advantages in mechanical design, as it ensures uniform force distribution and stability under load.
In the context of embodied intelligence, the logarithmic spiral curve offers a bio-inspired approach to engineering more efficient and resilient components. For example, in natural systems like spider webs or nautilus shells, this curve contributes to structural integrity and energy efficiency—qualities that are highly desirable in embodied robots. By emulating these patterns, researchers can develop mechanical parts that minimize friction, reduce wear, and enhance overall performance. Professor Xu’s team has spent decades exploring applications of this curve in fundamental mechanical elements, leading to significant breakthroughs that could redefine how embodied robots are built and operated.
The universality of the logarithmic spiral in nature suggests its robustness, making it an ideal model for advancing embodied intelligence. As Professor Xu explained, “By learning from billions of years of evolution, we can create mechanical systems that are not only more efficient but also more harmonious with natural principles, ultimately leading to sustainable and adaptive embodied robot technologies.”
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Breakthroughs in Gear Technology: Enhancing Load Capacity and Efficiency for Embodied Robots
Gears are fundamental to motion transmission in embodied robots, influencing everything from joint movements to power delivery. Traditional involute gears, which have been the standard in engineering for centuries, feature a pressure angle that typically starts at 20 degrees but varies significantly under load, leading to uneven stress distribution and potential failure points. In contrast, Professor Xu’s application of the logarithmic spiral curve to gear design results in a constant pressure angle of approximately 20 degrees, ensuring that forces are evenly distributed across the gear teeth. This uniformity not only reduces wear and tear but also substantially increases load-bearing capacity.
Specifically, tests have shown that logarithmic spiral gears exhibit a root load capacity about 5.6 times greater than that of traditional involute gears. This improvement is critical for embodied intelligence applications, where robots must handle variable loads without compromising precision or safety. For instance, in an embodied robot performing lifting tasks, stronger gears mean higher payloads and longer operational life, directly enhancing the system’s utility in manufacturing or logistics. The following table summarizes key comparisons between traditional and logarithmic spiral gears, highlighting the benefits for embodied intelligence:
Aspect Traditional Involute Gears Logarithmic Spiral Gears Impact on Embodied Intelligence Pressure Angle Varies under load (e.g., from 20° at start to higher values) Remains constant at approximately 20° Ensures uniform force distribution, reducing failure risks in embodied robot joints Root Load Capacity Baseline (e.g., 1x reference) Approximately 5.6 times higher Enables heavier payloads and more robust movements in embodied robots Lightweight Potential Limited by strength requirements High due to increased efficiency, allowing weight reduction Supports agile and energy-efficient designs for embodied intelligence systems Furthermore, the lightweight nature of these advanced gears aligns with the goals of embodied intelligence, where reducing mass can lead to faster response times and lower energy consumption. Professor Xu emphasized that this innovation is not just about improving individual components but about rethinking entire传动 systems for embodied robots, from industrial automata to humanoid assistants. By integrating logarithmic spiral gears, developers can create more reliable and efficient embodied intelligence platforms that push the boundaries of what robots can achieve in dynamic environments.
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Innovations in Bearing Design: Achieving Pure Rolling Friction for Smoother Embodied Robot Motion
Bearings play a crucial role in minimizing friction and supporting rotational movements in embodied robots, directly affecting their smoothness and energy efficiency. Traditional bearings often involve a combination of rolling and sliding friction, which can lead to energy losses, heat generation, and premature wear. Professor Xu’s research, however, demonstrates that applying the logarithmic spiral curve to bearing design can eliminate sliding friction entirely, resulting in a state close to pure rolling friction.
Experimental data from his team shows that bearings based on the logarithmic spiral exhibit ordered rolling traces, unlike the disordered patterns seen in conventional bearings. This order indicates a more consistent and efficient motion transfer, which is essential for the precise control required in embodied intelligence. For example, in the joints of an embodied robot, reduced friction means less power is wasted as heat, allowing for longer battery life and more accurate positioning. This advancement is particularly beneficial for applications involving repetitive motions, such as assembly line robots or mobile embodied systems that navigate uneven terrain.
The transition to pure rolling friction also enhances the longevity of bearings, reducing maintenance needs and downtime for embodied robots. In field tests, logarithmic spiral bearings have shown significant improvements in durability, which is vital for cost-effective deployment of embodied intelligence in sectors like healthcare or disaster response. As Professor Xu noted, “By mimicking the efficiency of natural systems, we can create bearings that not only last longer but also contribute to the overall agility of embodied robots, making them more adaptable and reliable partners in complex tasks.”
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Advances in Overrunning Clutches: Boosting Load Capacity and Eliminating Elastic Elements for Embodied Intelligence
Overrunning clutches are essential components in many mechanical systems, allowing torque transmission in one direction while freewheeling in the other. Traditional designs often rely on elastic elements like springs, which can introduce complexity, wear, and failure points. Professor Xu’s innovation incorporates the logarithmic spiral curve to create clutches that operate without any elastic components, simplifying the design while dramatically improving performance.
In comparative long-term testing, these logarithmic spiral clutches have demonstrated a load capacity four times greater than that of similar foreign products. This enhancement is a game-changer for embodied intelligence, as it enables lighter and more compact clutch designs without sacrificing strength. For instance, in an embodied robot that requires rapid direction changes or overload protection, such clutches can handle higher stresses, reducing the risk of damage and extending the system’s operational life. The elimination of springs also cuts down on part count and potential maintenance issues, aligning with the need for robust and low-maintenance embodied robot platforms.
The implications for embodied intelligence are profound, as these clutches can be integrated into various传动 mechanisms, from robotic arms to mobility systems. By providing higher reliability and efficiency, they support the development of embodied robots that can perform under harsh conditions, such as in outdoor exploration or heavy industrial settings. Professor Xu highlighted that this technology is already being explored for applications in automotive and aerospace industries, where the demands on mechanical components are exceptionally high, and the benefits for embodied intelligence could lead to safer and more capable autonomous systems.
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Revolutionary Transmission Systems: Improving Efficiency in Motion Conversion for Embodied Robots
Transmission systems that convert between rotary and linear motion are fundamental to the functionality of embodied robots, enabling actions like walking, grasping, or pushing. Traditional approaches, such as the crank-slider mechanism commonly used in engines, often suffer from low efficiency due to frictional losses and inertial effects. Professor Xu’s team has developed an alternative using logarithmic spiral cams, which achieve transmission efficiencies exceeding 95% in tests.
In one notable application within air compressors, equipment incorporating this cam-based传动 system showed a 41.6% improvement in efficiency compared to traditional devices. This leap in performance is critical for embodied intelligence, as it translates to better energy utilization and reduced operational costs. For example, in an embodied robot that relies on pneumatic or hydraulic systems for movement, higher efficiency means more work can be done with the same energy input, enhancing endurance and effectiveness in tasks like material handling or precision manufacturing.
Additionally, for converting linear motion to continuous rotary motion—a common requirement in embodied robots for propulsion or wheeled mobility—Professor Xu’s group designed a system using linear motion gear racks and added flywheels to ensure smooth operation. This design avoids the limitations of traditional crank-slider structures, which cannot achieve continuous motion without additional components. The resulting传动 system has been applied in compressed air generators and is under trial in automotive and air power domains, promising further advancements for embodied intelligence. As these systems are refined, they could enable more fluid and natural movements in embodied robots, closely mimicking biological organisms and improving human-robot interactions.
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Applications in Robotics and Industrial Systems: Integrating Innovations into Embodied Intelligence Platforms
The breakthroughs in gears, bearings, clutches, and transmission systems are poised for rapid deployment in robotics, particularly in the joints, reducers, and overall传动 architectures of embodied robots. Professor Xu envisions that these innovations will provide the core support needed to upgrade the “body” of embodied intelligence, enabling higher performance, reduced weight, and increased reliability. For instance, in humanoid robots, advanced joints based on logarithmic spiral components could allow for more dexterous manipulations and stable locomotion, essential for tasks in unstructured environments like homes or construction sites.
In industrial settings, embodied robots equipped with these mechanical advancements could revolutionize automation by handling more complex assemblies or adapting to variable production lines. The improved efficiency and durability also make them suitable for long-term operations, reducing downtime and total cost of ownership. Moreover, the lightweight design facilitated by these technologies supports the development of portable embodied intelligence systems, such as wearable exoskeletons or mobile drones, which require minimal energy for sustained activity.
Professor Xu emphasized that the integration of these hard technologies is not limited to robotics alone; they can benefit a wide range of sectors, including renewable energy, transportation, and consumer electronics. By fostering collaborations between academia and industry, his team aims to accelerate the adoption of these innovations, ultimately contributing to a new era of embodied intelligence that is both intelligent and physically adept. As he stated, “With these foundational improvements, we are laying the groundwork for embodied robots that can seamlessly interact with the world, pushing the boundaries of what machines can achieve alongside humans.”
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China’s Strides and Hurdles in Humanoid Robot Core Components: A Context for Embodied Intelligence Development
In recent years, China has made significant strides in the localization of core components for humanoid robots, which are a key subset of embodied intelligence. Domestic manufacturers have achieved notable cost advantages, with components often priced 60% to 70% lower than foreign equivalents. For example, companies like Hao Zhi Electromechanical have successfully developed and mass-produced critical parts such as reducers, low-voltage drivers, torque sensors, and encoders, with core metrics reaching industry-leading levels. This progress is bolstered by breakthroughs in high-precision machine tools, which provide the manufacturing foundation for mass-producing high-quality components essential for embodied robots.
Additionally, advancements in harmonic reducers, planetary roller screws, frameless torque motors, dexterous hands, and six-dimensional torque sensors are accelerating the domestic production cycle, reducing reliance on imports and enhancing supply chain resilience. These developments are crucial for the broader adoption of embodied intelligence, as they lower barriers to entry for startups and research institutions aiming to build advanced robotic systems. The table below outlines key areas of progress and their implications for embodied intelligence in China:
Component Category Domestic Advancements Impact on Embodied Intelligence Reducers and Drivers Localized production with cost savings of 60-70% compared to imports Makes embodied robots more affordable and accessible for various applications Sensors and Encoders Indigenous development of torque sensors and encoders with high precision Enhances the perceptual capabilities of embodied robots, improving interaction with environments Manufacturing Equipment Breakthroughs in high-precision machine tools Supports scalable production of reliable components for embodied intelligence systems Despite these achievements, challenges remain in catching up to international advanced levels. Supply chain instability is a concern, as reliance on imported raw materials could disrupt production flows. Moreover, intense global competition from established players with strong technological and brand advantages pressures domestic firms to innovate continuously. Talent shortage is another critical issue; the field of embodied intelligence requires multidisciplinary expertise in mechanical design, electronics, automation, and materials science, but China’s education system is still developing to meet this demand. Addressing these hurdles through policy support, industry-academia partnerships, and international collaboration will be essential for sustaining momentum in embodied robot development and ensuring that China plays a leading role in the global embodied intelligence landscape.
In conclusion, the innovations presented by Professor Xu Shuidian at the 2025 World Manufacturing Congress underscore a pivotal shift in the development of embodied intelligence. By leveraging the logarithmic spiral curve and other hard technologies, researchers are overcoming longstanding limitations in mechanical transmission, paving the way for more efficient, durable, and agile embodied robots. As these advancements are integrated into real-world systems, they promise to transform industries and enhance human-machine collaborations. The progress in China’s core components sector further highlights the global race to dominate embodied intelligence, emphasizing the need for continued investment and innovation to build a future where robots are not only smart but also physically capable partners in progress.