Humanoid robots sensing and illumination technologies for safety and autonomous operation

Real-time 3D sensing, navigation and safe human interaction through VCSEL-based Time-of-Flight LiDAR, infrared sensing, optical force sensing and light-based visualization technologies 

What defines humanoid robots?

Humanoid robots are designed for direct interaction with humans in real‑world environments such as industrial production, logistics, healthcare and services.

They rely on advanced sensing to detect people, objects and motion, enabling safe navigation and collaboration. High‑precision sensing and active illumination are key building blocks, providing real‑time environmental awareness and supporting safe physical interaction through technologies such as infrared sensing, 3D depth sensing and optical force sensing.

Beyond functionality, light‑based visualization helps humanoid robots communicate status and intent in an intuitive, non‑verbal way, improving user understanding and supporting safe coexistence with humans.

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Technology overview: Sensing and illumination in humanoid robotics 

Humanoid robots use optical sensing and active illumination to perceive and respond to their environment. Active 3D sensing and scene illumination are enabled through controlled infrared light using IR LEDs including IR:6 thin-film chip technology, VCSEL and edge-emitting laser (EEL) technologies.

These solutions support structured light and stereo systems for accurate depth perception in low-light and complex environments. Multi-zone direct Time-of-Flight (dToF) sensors provide real-time distance measurement for obstacle detection, navigation and collision avoidance. For tactile sensing, optical force sensing integrated into smart surfaces or robotic skin enables detection of touch, pressure and proximity for safe human interaction.

Visible LED illumination and projection technologies, including multi-pixel light sources such as EVIYOS® or high‑power laser systems, enable light-based communication, improve robot visibility and support intuitive interaction.

Why are sensing and illumination critical for humanoid robots?  

Because humanoid robots operate in close proximity to humans, safety, perception accuracy and intuitive interaction are essential requirements. 

Advanced sensing technologies allow robots to detect people, understand their environment and respond in real time, supporting safe navigation and collision avoidance. At the same time, active illumination improves 3D sensing performance and ensures reliable operation across varying ambient conditions, including low‑light environments. 

Lighting also plays a key role in human–robot interaction (HRI) by signaling status, intent and presence. Visible LEDs increase recognizability and trust, while projection systems provide intuitive, nonverbal communication. 

Additionally, integrating vital sign monitoring extends humanoid robots into healthcare applications, enabling functions such as remote monitoring, assisted care and wellbeing support. These combined capabilities highlight the importance of advanced sensing and illumination for next‑generation humanoid robotics. 

Humanoid robot system architecture and functional block diagram

Creating a humanoid robot system involves several key functions, including obstacle detection, human-machine interface and additional tools. The humanoid robot application block diagram below illustrates how sensing, illumination, control and communication components integrate to form a cohesive and human‑centric robotic system.

FAQ – Key questions about humanoid robot sensing and interaction

How do ams OSRAM optical solutions help humanoid robots see, navigate, sense touch, and communicate?

ams OSRAM’s optical solutions provide the sensing, illumination, and light-based communication capabilities that enable humanoid robots to see their surroundings, navigate complex environments, feel physical interaction, and communicate intent to people around them.    

Why is infrared illumination used in humanoid robots?   

Infrared illumination enables robots to "see" reliably in low-light or dark conditions by providing consistent, active lighting independent of ambient light, and it supports precise depth sensing in technologies like ToF and structured light. Also, visible light based illumination might be very disturbing to humans or technical systems in many situations.

What role does direct Time‑of‑Flight (dToF) sensing play in robotics? 

Multi‑zone dToF sensors provide real‑time distance measurement for 3D depth-map creation, enabling obstacle detection, spatial mapping and collision avoidance.
Due to compactness of dToF sensing solutions, the kinematics of humanoid robot’s arms & legs could become much more effective.

How do humanoid robots ensure safe physical interaction with humans?

Humanoid robots ensure safe physical interaction with humans by tactile sensing empowered by optical force sensing.
This technology from ams OSRAM can detect touch, proximity and applied force with high sensitivity, enabling controlled and responsive contact, allowing safe and natural interaction during tasks such as assistance or collaboration. It also allows to safely detect intended or unintended contact to humans or objects, allowing the robot to take proper action.

How is light used for communication in humanoid robotics?

Humanoid robots use light-based technologies such as LEDs, laser projection and multi-pixel light sources (e.g. EVIYOS® LED) to communicate visually with humans, signaling status, direction or intent. This visual communication improves clarity, safety and trust in human–robot interaction, especially in dynamic or shared environments.

Can humanoid robots support healthcare applications?

Yes, humanoid robots can support healthcare applications by using advanced sensing technologies to interact safely with people and monitor human conditions.
Optical sensing—such as vital sign monitoring and touch-sensitive interfaces—enables robots to assist in patient care, support medical staff, and enhance human–robot interaction in clinical and assisted living environments.

How can light-based solutions enhance social acceptance of humanoid robot systems?

Dynamic context-sensitive projection solutions and sensor enriched complex LED lighting structures enable robot designers to have the machine responding to human emotions. Instead of verbal or acoustic feedback from the robot (which could be sometimes even annoying), subtle hints can be given visually.
Wouldn’t it be much nicer if the humanoid robot’s head turns red and facial expression changes in response to a repeatedly unclear human instruction instead of answering in a cold technical fashion “command unclear”? Advanced lighting technologies allow to integration directly into the robot chassis at the right positions instead of a bulky display mimicking human face with eyes / mouth displayed for addressing the emotional aspects. 

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