Seiichiro Katsura's Laboratory in Keio University develops a high-speed high-backdrivable actuator called "Instantaneous Power Machine." A new actuation mechanism is utilized to achieve both high-speed motion and high backdrivability. The mechanism is composed of a clutch to transform the elastic potential energy accumulated by the geared motor into kinetic energy. As a result, it is possible to attain a dynamic motion of a robot using the actuator.
The "Instantaneous Power Machine" will open a new robot world.