In recent years, with the introduction of integrated harmonic actuators, an increasing number of automation equipment manufacturers have begun to replace the traditional configuration of harmonic drive reducers combined with servo motors. Through continuous practical application, harmonic actuators have evolved into a wide variety of forms.

Manufacturers now offer harmonic actuators in multiple models based on mainstream market demands, while their customization capabilities continue to improve, allowing better adaptation to different application scenarios.

What Are the Drawbacks of the Traditional Harmonic Drive Reducer + Servo Motor Configuration?

The traditional combination of a harmonic drive reducer and a servo motor relies heavily on manual assembly. Assembly accuracy and cable routing depend largely on the skills and experience of installation engineers.

In addition, overall system rigidity and dynamic performance are limited. The motor, reducer, and drive system must be carefully matched and tuned. For machine builders with less-developed supply chains, this results in higher integration costs and longer commissioning cycles.

Why Integrated Harmonic Actuators Are More Than Simple Integration？

A rotary harmonic actuator typically consists of a harmonic drive reducer, frameless torque motor, encoder, and an optional brake.

Compared with the traditional servo motor + harmonic reducer configuration, this architecture eliminates the need for mechanical engineers to design and validate the connection between the motor and the reducer. Integrated harmonic actuators incorporate ultra-thin frameless torque motors and high-precision encoders into a single module, significantly reducing component matching complexity while improving control accuracy.

Harmonic rotary actuators are not merely an assembly of components, but the result of secondary structural optimization. This integrated design enables simultaneous improvements in repeat positioning accuracy, torque density, and dynamic response performance.

Future Development Trends of Harmonic Actuators

With the rapid advancement of AI and robotics technologies, harmonic actuators are evolving toward greater diversification. Two main development paths are emerging: harmonic AC actuators and harmonic DC actuators.

Harmonic AC actuators focus on achieving higher precision and greater rigidity. They are typically used in applications such as CNC machine tools, semiconductor equipment, 3C automation, laser processing equipment, printing machinery, inkjet systems, glass processing equipment, and precision measurement instruments.

Harmonic DC actuators emphasize lighter weight and higher torque output. They are commonly applied in humanoid robots, quadruped robots, medical devices, and other systems designed to emulate human or animal motion.

What Is Your View on Harmonic Actuators?

As harmonic actuators continue to evolve in terms of performance, integration, and application diversity, they are becoming a key enabling technology for the next generation of automation equipment and intelligent robots.