Precision in Motion: How Frameless Motors are Advancing Surgical Robotics
This blog discusses the growing role of robotics in surgery and the challenges in designing robotic systems. It highlights how Alva’s FiberPrinted™ SlimTorq™ motors address these challenges with unmatched compactness, high torque density, and precision, making them an ideal choice for surgical robotics applications.
February 10, 2025
Nicolas Giraudo
CCO

In a recent post, I spoke about our new application video series and how Alva motors are a game changer for Exoskeleton applications.
Today, I want to share another video from the series on Surgical Robotics. Here is a link to watch it in full.
Let’s briefly explore the key takeaways from the video.
The Growing Role of Robotics in Surgery
Surgical robots have transformed modern healthcare, allowing for minimally invasive procedures, improved accuracy, and faster patient recovery. Unlike traditional robotic systems, these machines operate in delicate, constrained environments, where every millimeter of movement matters.
For engineers designing these systems, selecting the right motor technology is a critical decision—one that impacts size, weight, and overall performance.
Challenges in Actuation for Surgical Robots
Most robotic actuators rely on a motor-gearbox combination, carefully matched to deliver the required torque and precision. However, this approach presents challenges:
- Size Constraints: Space inside a surgical robot is extremely limited, making compact actuators essential.
- Weight Considerations: Lighter designs reduce inertia, improving responsiveness and control.
- Smooth Motion Control: Precision is critical to avoid unintended force or vibrations during procedures.
- Heat dissipation: Since these robots are used near humans, they cannot be too hot. Additionally, high temperature variations can affect accuracy. The fact that motors may spin very fast or require high torque typically means high thermal losses, either from speed or torque.
Traditionally, high-precision frameless motors haven’t always been the first choice due to integration challenges. However, Alva’s FiberPrinted™ motors are changing that.
The Alva Advantage: FiberPrinting™ for Surgical Robotics
With SlimTorq™ frameless motors, surgical robot designers no longer have to compromise. Our technology offers:
- Unmatched Compactness – The smallest, most lightweight motors available, reducing system footprint.
- High Torque Density – Enables high performance and improves efficiency.
- Zero Cogging Motion – Essential for seamless, precise robotic movements.
- Low speed dependant losses – Very low iron losses (no iron teeth).Especially interesting for axes with high gear ratios.
- Exceptional Customization – Rapid, application-specific motor designs tailored to surgical robotics.
Ready to Optimize Your Robotic Design?
Surgical robotics is a field that demands cutting-edge technology, and frameless torque motors are proving to be the future of actuation. If you’re designing a robotic surgical system and need a high-precision, compact, and lightweight solution, let’s talk.
Contact us today to explore how FiberPrinted™ motors can power your next breakthrough.
Contact
Nicolas Giraudo
Chief Commercial Officer
Fossegrenda 1, 7038 Trondheim, Norway
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