Berkeley launched a light open-source humanoid robot

The construction of an open-source humanoid robot has traditionally been out of access to most people due to high cost and complex ownership systems. While robotics have made major progress in automation, healthcare and research, accessible robot designs are still a challenge for students, hobby and small research teams. Most humanoid robots are expensive, it is difficult to modify, and difficult to repair.

This is why a new project of UC Burkeley is being given a lot of attention. Burkeley Humoid Lite (BHL) is a light, open-source humanoid robot that one can manufacture using 3D-printed parts and off-the-shelf components. This is a major step towards making robotics more economical, adaptable and accessible to all.

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Why accessible robot design is required for innovation

The manufacture of a robot from scratches is usually required fancy equipment such as CNC machines or custom electronics. Most people do not have access to devices that make learning and experiment difficult. The same Barkle team wanted to change the team.

The goal behind the BHL project was to create an accessible robot design that does not require large -scale budget or fully equipped laboratory. The entire robot can be made with online ordered parts and printed at home. It costs less than $ 5,000 to manufacture, which is cheaper than most commercial humanoid robots.

Berkeley’s open-sources inside the humanoid robot

The robot is about 39 inches long and weighs more than just 35 pounds. It is powered by modular actuators that use a 3D-crushed cycloidal gearbox. These gearbox distribute large gear teeth pressure, which helps the joints to last long and perform more like people found in high -end commercial robots.

Because the design is a modular, you do not have to build the entire robot together. You can start by printing and testing a single actuator, then gradually proceed to collect full organs and eventually the entire humanoid. It is a big plus for anyone, simply starting with robotics or working with limited resources.

Open source robotics with a strong community focus

Everything about BHL robots is open source. It includes hardware design, control software and even a custom teleoporative system that uses Steamvr. It is easy to control, simple to repair, and endless adaptable.

There is also a growing community around the project. Builder tips, upgrades and full robots are shared on discord and githb. This type of cooperation is a large part that makes the accessible robot design so powerful-it brings more people into conversation and helps everyone to learn rapidly.

Kurt’s major takeaways

Berkeley Humoid Light proves that accessible robot design does not mean cutting corners. With a commitment to smart engineering, affordable parts, and openness, the team behind BHL is making anyone more easier than ever to dive into humanoid robotics. Whether you are a student, a manufacturer, or how a robot work is eager, it is a project that shows what is possible when technology is made for all.

Do you think Berkeley’s BHL-like open-sources and inexpensive humanoid robots will finally break the obstacles for robotics innovation, or high cost and complexity will still keep most people out? Write us and tell us Cyberguy.com/Contact.

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