MinebeaMitsumi Signs MOU With Kailas Robotics

MinebeaMitsumi Inc. has concluded a Memorandum of Understanding with Kailas Robotics Inc. to collaborate on the development and reliability tests of advanced robot arms equipped with MinebeaMitsumi’s miniature 6-axis force torque sensors, with the goal of achieving early practical implementation.

MinebeaMitsumi’s miniature 6-axis force torque sensor features a hybrid structure consisting of a MEMS chip and a metal structure, enabling it to detect 3-axis of force and 3-axis of moment. Compared to analog sensors, it offers superior noise resistance and enhanced data acquisition capabilities. At just 9.6 mm in diameter, this sensor is exceptionally compact and light. Robots and testing equipment across diverse fields employ this sensor, enabling the detection of contact, weight, delicacy, positioning, and vibration.

Kailas has successfully miniaturized its robot arm by designing a FPGA (Field Programmable Gate Array) based on state-of-the-art SoC (System on Chip), while its core technology enables the arm to securely grip objects even when the fulcrum moves. Furthermore, the Kailas robot arm “MobiRobo” is an innovative arm that is needed for a wide range of robots, and it is optimized not only for drones, but also for UGVs (Unmanned Ground Vehicles), humanoids and artificial arms. In January 2025, it won the “CES Innovation Award^®“, which recognizes outstanding design and engineering in consumer technology, at “CES^® 2025″, the world’s largest technology trade show.

Amid labor shortages and frequent occurrence of natural disasters, demand is rising for AGVs (Automated Guided Vehicle) and UAVs (Unmanned Aerial Vehicle) to remove hazardous materials in disaster-stricken areas, as well as for robot arms mounted on these vehicles. There is also a growing need for higher precision and miniaturization of robot arms. Responding to these trends, MinebeaMitsumi has signed this Memorandum of Understanding with Kailas to pursue the development and practical implementation of robot arms mountable on mobile objects like drones.

Equipping connecting parts placed between Kaila’s robot arm and end effector (gripper) with MinebeaMitsumi’s high-precision miniature 6-axis force torque sensor “MMS101” will enhance contact detection capabilities, enabling the tip of the robot arm to perform delicate force control, gripping capability in arms, improved safety, while also saving cost and space. Additionally, utilizing Kailas’s expertise in advanced robot arm technology, both companies will conduct thorough reliability tests together simulating various scenarios in which our customers may use the robot arm.

We highly anticipate that this advanced robot arm will excel across various fields, including precision work, manufacturing, and health care. We are committed to achieving the early practical implementation in an effort to develop, manufacture, and deliver products that contribute to addressing societal challenges.

High-precision force control

By using MinebeaMitsumi’s torque sensor, the robot arm can precisely measure and control the force applied to an object, enabling delicate tasks and precise assembly.

Real-time feedback

Real-time feedback of data from the torque sensor enables the robot arm to instantly detect force changes and adjust its movements accordingly, reducing risks of damaging objects.

Enhanced safety

The torque sensor enables monitoring of applied force, performing an automatic stop function that activates when a certain threshold is exceeded. This enhances safety for operators and the surrounding environment.

Flexible operability

Its compact-sized sensor maximizes the robot arm’s range of motion, offering flexibility in installation options. This feature helps perform complex tasks and operations in confined spaces.

Cost/space efficiency

Miniature sensors are generally more cost-effective than larger ones and require less installation space, helping to minimize the overall cost and size of the equipment.