ULTRA-PRECISE MACHINING FOR NEXT-GEN ROBOTICS
How CRP Meccanica Manufactures Structural Components for Humanoid Robots
As the robotics sector pushes toward human-like performance, the demand for ultra-precise, lightweight, and compact components has never been higher. In collaboration with global leaders in humanoid robotics, CRP Meccanica was selected to manufacture complex structural and mechanical parts for a new generation of humanoid platforms.
The customer needed a partner capable of producing mission-critical components with micron-level accuracy, while also supporting engineering decisions and ensuring seamless integration across mixed technologies.
The result: a comprehensive production approach combining DMLS, CNC milling, EDM, and lapping for uncompromised results.
THE TECHNICAL HEART OF THE PROJECT
1. Thin-Walled Aluminum 3D Prints (Shoulder & Upper Arm)
These parts featured wall thicknesses down to 1.5 mm, which caused vibration and potential warping during post-processing. Standard clamping methods proved insufficient.
Solution: A custom support jig was 3D printed in Windform composite to reinforce the structure during CNC machining.
RESULT
Dimensional precision within ±0.01 mm was achieved without distortion, even on ultra-thin walls.
2. Precision Actuator Interfaces (Forearm)
Hydraulic cylinders required tolerances of ±5 µm across deep bores in 7075-T6 aluminum, demanding both rigidity and surface consistency.
Solution: A combined process of precision boring, multi-axis adaptive machining, and final lapping minimized tool pressure and material deformation.
RESULT
±0.005 mm consistency across pockets and a surface finish suitable for smooth, long-life hydraulic performance.
3. High-Strength Titanium Components (Hip & Upper Leg)
Structural components in titanium alloy were prone to tool wear and work hardening. The hip torque cell required a surface finish of Ra ≤ 0.2 µm for accurate force measurements on strain gauges.
Solution: High-speed machining with custom carbide tools and precision lapping for final finishing.
RESULT
Aerospace-grade quality, increased tool life, and structural durability for dynamic load environments.
4. Hybrid Manufacturing Approach (Foot Assembly & Lower Talus)
The foot structure combined lightweight design with rigid precision zones – manufactured using Scalmalloy® via DMLS, followed by 5-axis CNC refinement.
Additionally, the titanium connector plate was machined using wire EDM and CNC milling, reaching tolerances of ±5 µm.
RESULT
A fully integrated hybrid assembly, maintaining total assembly precision of ±0.01 mm and ensuring drop-in compatibility with the robot’s structural architecture.
Project outcome: extreme tolerance, complete integration
Additive & subtractive workflows
Functional lapped bores and sliding fits
Surface finishes tailored to mechanical interfaces
Structural and dynamic integration across multiple subsystems
All manufactured under EN 9100-certified quality and delivered with full engineering support.
Tolerances | Surface finish | Wall thicknesses | Hybrid component assembly tolerance |
|---|---|---|---|
as tight as ±5 µm | Ra ≤ 0.2 µm | down to 1.5 mm | ±0.01 mm |
NOT JUST A SUPPLIER. A PARTNER IN ROBOTIC PRECISION
The client sought more than machining – they needed a consulting partner, capable of:
- Advising on fixture and tooling strategy
- Suggesting hybrid manufacturing methods
- Delivering results on time, without deviation
CRP Meccanica met every requirement with agility and precision, reinforcing its reputation in advanced robotics manufacturing.