Alex - Robot Details, Use Case and Specifications

Alex

Alex by Boardwalk Robotics is a 19-DOF humanoid upper torso robot with 10 kg payload, high-speed joints, designed for manufacturing, logistics, and maintenance automation.

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Available

Made by

Boardwalk Robotics, Inc.

Software Type

Closed Source

Software Package

Runs proprietary control software optimized for high-speed manipulation, sensor integration, and safe human-robot interaction. Supports pilot programs with custom integration and scalable deployment.

Actuators

Custom in-house designed actuators delivering rapid joint movements at up to 9 rad/s, enabling agile and precise manipulation with a 10 kg payload.

Compiute

Onboard computing supports real-time control, sensor fusion, and integration with industrial automation systems.

Sensors

Equipped with vision and force sensors for precise manipulation and environment awareness (specific sensors not detailed).

Max Op. time

mins

Robot Brief

Alex is a dynamic humanoid upper torso robot developed by Boardwalk Robotics, designed to transform workforce productivity in industries such as manufacturing, logistics, and maintenance. Featuring 19 degrees of freedom and high-speed joints capable of moving at 9 rad/s, Alex offers versatile manipulation capabilities with a continuous payload capacity of 10 kg. Unlike many humanoid robots, Alex currently does not have legs, focusing instead on advanced upper-body manipulation mounted on a stable base or mobile platform. This design prioritizes safety and efficiency, allowing the robot to work closely with humans and perform tasks requiring dexterity and speed without the risks associated with bipedal locomotion. Boardwalk Robotics leverages its collaboration with the Institute for Human Machine Cognition (IHMC), known for its expertise in bipedal robotics, to develop Alex’s manipulation systems. The robot is available for commercial pilots and research, with early deployments targeting logistics, food processing, and aviation sectors. Future versions may include legged mobility, but the current focus is on mastering manipulation for practical, cost-effective applications.

Use Cases

Alex performs high-speed, precise manipulation tasks such as sorting packages, picking and placing items, and assisting with maintenance operations. It is designed to operate safely alongside human workers, enhancing productivity in environments where mobility is limited or unnecessary. The robot’s rapid actuation enables it to handle critical operations efficiently, supporting automation in logistics, manufacturing, and other industrial settings.

Industries

Manufacturing: Assists with assembly, quality control, and maintenance tasks.
Logistics: Sorts packages, unloads cargo, and manages inventory.
Food Processing: Supports handling and processing operations.
Aviation: Early pilot programs include applications in aircraft maintenance and logistics.
Research & Development: Provides a platform for advancing humanoid manipulation technologies.

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Specifications

Length

Width

Height (ResT)

Height (Stand)

Height (Min)

Height (Max)

Weight (With Batt.)

Weight (NO Batt.)

Max Step Height

Max Slope

+/-

Op. Temp (min)

°C

Op. Temp (Max)

°C

Ingress Rating

No items found.

Intro

Alex is a humanoid upper torso robot featuring 19 degrees of freedom with high-speed actuators capable of 9 rad/s joint velocity. It has a continuous payload capacity of 10 kg, enabling it to perform a wide range of manipulation tasks. The robot currently lacks legs, focusing on manipulation mounted on a stable base or mobile platform for safety and efficiency. Alex’s actuators are designed in-house, and upcoming versions will include improved grippers for faster tool changes. The robot integrates sensors and control systems developed in collaboration with IHMC, leveraging experience from advanced bipedal robots like Nadia and NASA’s Valkyrie. Alex is offered commercially for pilot programs and research, with a focus on practical industrial applications.

Connectivity

Likely WiFi and Ethernet for network integration (inferred)
Sensor interfaces for vision and force feedback (inferred)
Compatible with industrial control and automation protocols

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Capabilities

19 degrees of freedom for versatile upper-body manipulation
High-speed joint actuation (up to 9 rad/s) for rapid task execution
Continuous payload capacity of 10 kg
Precise picking, placing, sorting, and maintenance assistance
Stable base design enabling safe human-robot collaboration
Modular grippers with planned quick-change capabilities
Integration with industrial workflows and automation systems

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