How do you even quantify 'feel' when comparing two actuators?

[smartinez]

Still learning the space, so correct me if wrong - Field-oriented control (FOC) tuning directly affects how smooth torque output feels - poorly tuned current loops show up as audible whine and jerky low-speed motion, while well-tuned FOC can make even a geared actuator feel fairly fluid.

[gimbalmar65]

@smartinez +1 to this. Worth adding: For dynamic walking and recovery, joint control bandwidth in the tens of Hz range is typically necessary to react to a stumble before the center of mass gets too far outside the support polygon. Reminds me a bit of the early drone hobbyist scene, honestly.

[jhansen]

Sorry if this is a basic question, but Torque sensing is frequently integrated directly into the actuator housing via strain gauges near the output flange or spring element, rather than bolted on as an external sensor, to save weight and reduce noise from mechanical slop.