Prototype of the Anthropomorphic Musculoskeletal Robot Torso
Clone Torso 2 is a humanoid robotic torso created by the Polish startup Clone Robotics. It replicates the upper part of the human body.
The prototype of the anthropomorphic musculoskeletal robot Torso was developed by engineers from the Polish startup Clone in October 2024. The robot’s design mimics the anatomy of the human torso. It features two arms with movable elbows and hands with fingers, a cervical spine, and anthropomorphic shoulders with sternoclavicular, acromioclavicular, scapulothoracic, and shoulder joints.
Clone Torso 2: How It Works
The robot’s movement is powered by artificial hydraulic muscles. A matrix of valves is located in the chest area, enabling the robot to move its arms, rotate, and tilt its head. Torso 2 has a white transparent shell containing 910 muscle fibers that provide 164 degrees of freedom and includes 182 sensors for feedback-controlled operation. 
The robot features:
- Two arms with movable elbows and hands with fingers
- A cervical spine
- Anthropomorphic shoulders with sternoclavicular, acromioclavicular, scapulothoracic, and shoulder joints
Movement is driven by circulating water through tubes in the torso from a container. The hydraulic system, powered by batteries, creates the necessary pressure to “contract” the bionic muscles and activate the associated tendons.
Potential Applications of Torso 2
Clone Torso 2 has a “human-like” pelvis, a lightweight yet durable skeleton, and a protruding structure that resembles a human head. Its elbows, neck, and anthropomorphic shoulders can flex and extend.
The company envisions that its humanoid robots will one day replace humans in manual operations on industrial assembly lines and manufacturing. These robots could also take on everyday household tasks involving the handling or moving of objects.
Another potential application for humanoid robots is medical rehabilitation. Recovering patients could remotely control the robot’s movements, thereby aiding in the recovery of their muscular function.
