The series explains how these robots, from being simple machines to becoming essential tools used in assisting people, industrial automation, education, and even in the most hostile environments.
While science fiction has long imagined humanoid robots, recent advances in sensors, actuators, AI, embedded computing, and power systems have enabled practical robotic deployments in industrial, healthcare, and high-risk environments. Engineers are integrating multimodal perception, real-time control, and simulation-based training using physical AI approaches to accelerate development and improve performance. Although many systems still require supervision, they serve as the foundation for collaborative robotic platforms capable of complex, human-like interactions. The latest EIT publication explores the engineering design process, the challenges of systems integration, and the role of legacy infrastructure, safety, and return on investment in driving the scalable deployment of humanoid robots.
“Humanoid robotics represents a convergence of sensing, control, and embedded intelligence that is transforming how engineers approach systems design,” said Jeff Newell, president of Mouser Electronics. “With this latest installment of Empowering Innovation Together, we are providing engineers with the knowledge and resources they need to better understand and navigate this transition.”.
In the podcast, Raymond Yin, Director of Technical Content at Mouser Electronics, and Leo Chen, Director of US Operations at robotics manufacturer Engineered Arts, discuss the role of robotics in industrial settings and the engineering approach to creating human-like facial features and expressions. Chen also explains how Ameca, Engineered Arts' humanoid robot, came to fruition through careful design considerations.
“Developing humanoid robots requires solving complex system-level challenges related to real-time perception, actuation, and control,” Yin said. “In this episode, we explore how engineers address these challenges and what it takes to build systems that can operate reliably in real-world environments.”.
In addition to the podcast, the EIT series includes an in-depth video, technical articles, an infographic on the topic, and exclusive subscriber content, examining the practical applications of AI in engineering workflows. By analyzing the wide variety of use cases where AI can enhance the technical experience, engineers can develop tools that help transform how people think, make decisions, and create, while protecting privacy and control.
