Test Benches for Robotics ComponentsTesting actuators, joint drives and batteries
Robotics components have to run reliably for thousands of operating hours, under load and at changing temperatures. The only way to prove this is with the right tests.
Poppe + Potthoff Maschinenbau builds test benches for the automotive, e-mobility, hydrogen and aerospace industries. We now apply this experience to robotics components as well. Together with you, we work out which tests your component needs and then build the right test bench. If you prefer, we can also run the tests for you in our test lab in Nordhausen, Germany.
What we can testExamples from robotics
The illustration and the points below are examples. We agree with you on a case-by-case basis which tests make sense for your component.
Actuators and joint drives
We test the complete joint drive with motor, planetary or strain wave gear, encoder and drive electronics. This applies to rotary and linear drives, both in development and in production testing. Typical parameters in performance testing are:
- Function
- Speed
- Peak and continuous torque
- Acceleration torque
- Current draw
- Input voltage
- Power consumption
- Heat generation
- Service life under load
- Behavior in case of failure
Cooling circuit, pumps and connectors
High-performance joint drives and the AI computer are increasingly liquid-cooled. We test pumps, coolant lines, connectors and cold plates for leak tightness and flow rate, and for their resistance to pressure, temperature and movement.
Seals, housings and grippers
We test joints and housings for leak tightness, and pneumatic and vacuum grippers for function and service life.
Your own test task
For test tasks without a standard solution, such as the load on an assembly when the robot falls, we develop a dedicated test setup.
How we support youfrom the first prototype to series production
For many robotics components there are no established test standards yet. That is why we develop the test process together with you and supply the test equipment to go with it.
Testing in Nordhausen
You send us your components and we test them in our test lab. You receive fully documented results. This works particularly well for development samples and longer endurance runs.
Test benches for your R&D
We build the test bench to your specification. Load profiles are freely programmable, and temperature control and data acquisition are integrated.
End-of-line test systems
For series production we supply test systems that check every part within the production cycle and store the results with full traceability.
Get in touch, even if your test requirements are not fully defined yet.
Contact usFrequently asked questionsTesting robotics components
Which robotics components does Poppe + Potthoff test?
We mainly test actuators and joint drives, cooling circuits, batteries, seals, housings and grippers for humanoid, industrial and mobile robots. Software, AI and cybersecurity are not part of our offering.
Which parameters do you measure on actuators?
Typical parameters are function, speed, peak and continuous torque, acceleration torque, current draw, input voltage, power consumption and heat generation. We also run endurance tests under load. We define the exact scope of testing with you.
Do you offer testing as a service?
Yes. In our test lab in Nordhausen we test development samples and run endurance tests. If you would rather test in-house, we build the test bench or end-of-line test system for you.
Are there standards for testing humanoid robots?
The safety standard ISO 25785-1 for robots that actively keep their balance is still being developed. There are hardly any established requirements for individual components yet. That is why we develop the test procedure together with you.
Is Poppe + Potthoff accredited?
Our test lab is not accredited. On request, TÜV or DEKRA can witness the test setup and test execution.