How to test a bionic robot?

As intelligent machines that mimic biological characteristics to perform specific tasks, the accuracy and reliability of motion control in bionic robots directly determine their performance. Motors act as the "muscles" of bionic robots, serving as the core components that drive complex movements. Therefore, comprehensive and systematic testing of motor performance is critically important.

Bionic robot motor testing refers to the process of using a professional robot motor tester to evaluate and verify various motor performance indicators, providing essential reference for R&D and quality control.

Ⅰ.Preparation for Bionic Robot Motor Testing

Thorough preparation is essential before starting bionic robot motor testing to ensure systematic and accurate results.

Checking the status of the robot motor tester is a fundamental step. Confirm that all components—such as the mechanical platform, loading system, and sensors—are in good working condition and properly configured according to test requirements.

The test solution should be customized to the specific application of the bionic robot. For instance, medical bionic robots require extremely high precision and quiet operation, while industrial bionic robots prioritize load capacity and durability. Test recording tools, such as data collection sheets or automated systems, should also be prepared to ensure traceability. AIP’s customized humanoid robot motor tester can flexibly adjust test parameters and methods to meet the needs of various bionic robots.

Proper installation and calibration of the motor are also crucial. Bionic robots often use various types of motors, including coreless motors, frameless torque motors, and servo motors. A quick-clamping system should be used to ensure precise positioning on the test bench. All electrical connections must be secure and insulated to prevent safety hazards. Environmental factors such as temperature, humidity, and electromagnetic interference should also be controlled to minimize impact on test results.

II. Bionic Robot Test Items

Testing motors for bionic robots involves unique challenges compared to traditional industrial robot motors.

On one hand, bionic robots need to mimic the motion characteristics of living organisms, requiring greater flexibility and adaptability to handle complex environments. On the other hand, they often perform delicate and complex movements, demanding higher control precision and response speed.

Moreover, bionic robots frequently operate in human-interactive environments, placing higher requirements on safety, noise levels, and energy efficiency.

1. Conventional Electrical Performance Testing

Electrical performance testing forms the basis of all evaluations, including checks for resistance, insulation, surge, and AC hi-pot. These tests ensure electrical safety and reliability, laying a solid foundation for further performance assessments.

2. Torque-Speed Characteristics Testing

Tests include cogging torque, friction torque, Separation Torque, and torque constant to map the motor’s performance from startup to maximum capacity. This ensures the robot can transition smoothly between high-power actions and fine manipulations.

3. Dynamic Response Performance Testing

This test evaluates the motor’s response speed and accuracy to commands, which directly affects the robot’s agility and coordination—key to mimicking biological movement.

4. NVH Testing

NVH (Noise, Vibration, and Harshness) testing evaluates the motor’s noise and vibration performance. Using a high-precision microphone array and a three-axis accelerometer in a semi-anechoic chamber, noise spectra and vibration signals are collected under various conditions. Order analysis and transfer path analysis ensure quiet and stable operation, avoiding interference from noise or vibration.

III. Testing Process

Using the AIP humanoid robot motor tester, test results can be obtained in just three steps:

1. Connection: Connect the motor to be tested to the tester;

2. Start: Press the start button or slide the cover on the workbench to begin automatic testing;

3. Read the results: The motor tester's display shows the test results and test curve, and the test is complete.

AIP focuses on global motor testing and provides one-stop robot motor test solutions such as frameless torque motors, coreless motors, brushless motors, servo motors, etc. commonly used in bionic robots!