Hardware

Impedance Matching

Impedance matching is the practice of matching a source's impedance to its load to maximize power transfer or minimize signal reflection. In robot electronics it governs termination of high-speed buses and RF antennas; the mechanical analogue is selecting a transmission ratio so a motor's inertia and torque characteristics match the load, maximizing acceleration or energy efficiency at the joint.

Why it matters for physical AI

Gear ratio selection as mechanical impedance matching determines whether legs can absorb impacts and arms can be backdriven, shaping the actuation trade-offs behind dynamic, contact-tolerant robots.