Schaeffler, the motion technology company, has been awarded the Hermes Award for its scalable actuator platform designed specifically for humanoid robots. The award, presented at the Hannover Messe opening ceremony on April 19, 2026, recognizes the platform's high level of innovation and its potential to significantly benefit industry. The platform integrates electric motors, power electronics, and precision encoders with modular gear options, reducing installation footprint by 20% and weight by up to 500 grams. With actuators accounting for approximately 50% of the total cost of humanoids, Schaeffler's solution is pivotal in enabling cost-effective mass production.
Georg F. W. Schaeffler, Chairman of the Supervisory Board, stated that the award underscores the company's 80-year legacy of innovation and its commitment to growth segments like humanoid robotics. CEO Klaus Rosenfeld emphasized that the actuator technology exemplifies the Motion Technology Company concept, converting energy into mechanical motion. The platform's design includes highly efficient electric motors, integrated bearings, and flexible configuration with planetary or strain wave gears, enabling natural movement in joints like shoulders, elbows, and knees.
Schaeffler plans to begin series production of components this year, leveraging its core manufacturing technologies such as automated winding and chipless metal forming. The company's close integration of development, production, and supply chain ensures fast and flexible ramp-up. The actuator platform will be showcased at Booth E60 in Hall 13 during Hannover Messe from April 20 to 24. For more information, visit Schaeffler at Hannover Messe 2026.
