Danfoss Power Solutions and Rise Robotics have signed a collaboration agreement to jointly validate and test a fluid-free, electro-mechanical alternative to a hydraulic cylinder for heavy equipment and machinery.

Claimed to be lighter, stronger, faster and more efficient than a hydraulic cylinder, the passively-cooled concept developed by Rise Robotics (founded in 2011 by graduates of Massachusetts Institute of Technology and Rhode Island School of Design) uses flat belt technology.

Delivering hydraulic-like forces and what is claimed as unprecedented efficiency, the maintenance-free technology is also said to significantly reduce battery size, cost and recharge time and/or increase run time.