Link Suspension Technology Successfully Tested for Service Robots

In a significant advancement for service robotics, NSK Ltd., based in Tokyo, has announced the successful testing of its pivotal link suspension technology, integral to a new service robot platform. This platform aims to enhance the operational stability of robots across various challenging outdoor terrains.

Background

In recent years, industries such as education, hospitality, and logistics have faced severe labor shortages, leading to increased demand for stable-running service robots capable of navigating uneven outdoor environments. Yet, the introduction of these robots has been hampered by considerable technical challenges, particularly in dealing with unpaved roads, curbs, slopes, and tactile paving.

NSK has been proactively addressing these concerns by developing a versatile service robot platform since 2023, with a goal to introduce it to the market by 2027. This platform focuses on essential capabilities including outdoor mobility, reliable transport, and autonomous navigation, all encapsulated in a low-profile body design.

Development Journey

Under its mid-term management strategy, termed “MTP2026,” NSK has committed to leveraging its longstanding expertise in bearing technology to navigate into new business territories. The launch of its service robot platform aligns with this vision, pushing to overcome existing industry barriers by utilizing the core competencies honed over decades.

Recently, NSK successfully completed the technical verification of the link suspension system—an innovative device utilizing a pantograph-like linkage to couple driving and idler wheels. This design ensures consistent contact with the ground, allowing for stability and enhanced performance even on rough, uneven surfaces.

Following the prototype revealed in 2023, the refined version is set to be further tested in collaboration with Ritsumeikan University starting in 2024. This experimental project focuses on deploying outdoor security robots on the university campus, marking a pioneering stride in large-scale outdoor robotic applications in Japan.

Current and Future Plans

The service robot platform equipped with this link suspension system is designed to be low-profile, potentially facilitating the miniaturization of service robots. Given the growing need for compact robots in both indoor and outdoor settings, NSK anticipates a robust market demand.

Additionally, comprehensive testing will be conducted across various use cases, enabling the platform to evolve in functionality. NSK plans to integrate service integration techniques accumulated over its competitive history, thus tailoring solutions that directly meet real-world needs.

Ritsumeikan University Project Overview

The undertaking at Ritsumeikan University’s Osaka Ibaraki Campus involves substantial outdoor testing of the security robots equipped with the link suspension technology.

- Significance: The project is among the first in Japan to explore high-performance outdoor security robots within an educational environment.
- Funding and Resources: Collaborating with Ritsumeikan University offers unique access to their living lab, enhancing the experimental framework.

Features of the Outdoor Security Robot

The outdoor security robots developed by NSK feature the link suspension system that ensures steady transit even amidst curbs and other ground irregularities.

- Example Functions: Equipped with infrared lights and AI image recognition technologies, these robots can efficiently detect suspicious individuals or hazardous materials, even in low-light scenarios. Moreover, the Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) technology is implemented to monitor the robots actively, preventing entry into restricted areas while enabling secure patrolling.

About NSK

Founded in 1916, NSK has been a cornerstone of industrial development, producing bearings and comprehensive automotive components. With operations in approximately 30 countries, NSK ranks third globally in the bearing industry and leads in linear motion and electric power steering sectors. The company aims to contribute to a smoother, safer society through its philosophy, “MOTION & CONTROL™,” underscoring its commitment to preserving the global environment and fostering international human connections.

As NSK prepares for its 2026 Vision, striving for innovative movement creation and societal contributions, the forthcoming release of this service robot platform marks a transformative phase in the robotics landscape. By aligning with evolving market expectations, NSK continues to champion development while balancing corporate advancement with social responsibility.

For more details on NSK, visit our official page.