Japanese Electronic Components Maker TDK Showcases New Robotics and Medical Sensing Solutions
At CEATEC 2026, TDK displayed miniature sensors for multi-fingered robots and the Nivio-S non-contact magnetic monitoring system, targeting commercialization in 2027-2028.
Japanese electronic components manufacturer TDK showcased its latest sensing solutions for physical AI at "CEATEC 2026" (October 13-16, 2026, Makuhari Messe). The company has identified expanding its business for AI ecosystems as its primary growth driver, with a focus on robotics and medical monitoring.
In the robotics sector, TDK demonstrated a German-made Nibotics multi-fingered robot hand equipped with TDK's tunnel magnetoresistance (TMR) angle sensors, MEMS gyroscopes/accelerometers, and three-axis Hall magnetic sensors. According to TDK staff, size, heat resistance, and tolerance to external magnetic fields are the three critical challenges for robotic sensors. For instance, a single finger in a multi-jointed hand requires about 20 integrated sensors, which must remain compact while withstanding heat from batteries and magnetic fields from motors.
Additionally, TDK demonstrated a nine-axis magnetic sensor system composed of nine Nivio-S magnetoresistive sensors. This system enables non-contact, non-destructive monitoring even through barriers like walls, suitable for tracking the position of gastric cameras or catheters, detecting rebar in buildings, and airport security checks. TDK stated that this technology offers higher precision in catheter tip detection than existing methods. Sample shipments have already begun, with commercialization targeted for around 2027 to 2028.