Overview

HELIOS is a prototype humanoid robot by ORBIT Robotics from Switzerland, developed from a focus project at ETH Zurich. The machine is designed for use in microgravity and is intended to assist astronauts on future space stations with maintenance and cargo operations.

Construction

Unlike most humanoids, HELIOS forgoes legs since walking in microgravity offers little benefit. Instead, the robot relies on four arms. Two of them anchor it to interior surfaces, while the other two work, such as unloading cargo or handling tools. The prototype measures approximately 160 centimeters, reaches a maximum speed of about 2 kilometers per hour, and runs for approximately three hours per charge. Overall, it features 28 degrees of freedom, with 14 in the hands.

Technology and AI

The arms are built with cable drives. The motors are positioned near the shoulder to reduce moving mass, with cables and pulleys driving the joints. The elbow uses a rolling contact joint for smooth, compliant movement with minimal friction.

Market Significance

ORBIT Robotics justifies the need with the high costs of human labor in orbit. Astronauts spend approximately 35 percent of their time on maintenance work, and a single cargo unloading operation can require nearly 50 hours of crew time. Labor costs in space are estimated at approximately 140,000 US dollars per hour.