Boston Dynamics Unveils Next-Generation Humanoid Robot
The next-generation Atlas humanoid robot has been deployed at Hyundai's assembly plant in Georgia. Photo courtesy Boston Dynamics Inc.
LAS VEGAS—Boston Dynamics Inc. recently unveiled a next-generation version of its Atlas humanoid robot, which is currently in use at Hyundai’s new assembly plant in Ellabell, GA. The fully electric, general-purpose machine is designed to perform a variety of industrial tasks.
“For more than 30 years, [we have] been building some of the world’s most advanced robots,” says Robert Playter, CEO of Boston Dynamics. “This is the best robot we have ever built. Atlas is going to revolutionize the way industry works, and it marks the first step toward a long-term goal we have dreamed about since we were children—useful robots that can walk into our homes and help make our lives safer, more productive and more fulfilling.”
According to Playter, the robot learns new tasks quickly, adapts to dynamic environments, lifts heavy loads, and works autonomously with minimal supervision. It performs at a consistent, reliable pace and does not need to stop.
When its power runs low, Atlas will autonomously navigate to a charging station and swap out its batteries. And, once a single Atlas robot learns a new task, it can immediately be replicated across the entire fleet of robots.
The robot can be controlled in three different ways: autonomous mode, teleoperated or by using a tablet steering interface. Atlas has 56 degrees of freedom, fully rotational joints, a reach extending to 7.5 feet and the strength to lift up to 110 pounds. The robot is water-resistant and can operate at temperatures ranging from -4 to 104 F. Its safety features include human detection and fenceless guarding, and it can be integrated into workflows using bar code scanners or RFID.
“Atlas is the most production friendly robot we’ve ever designed,” claims Zack Jackowski, general manager of Boston Dynamics. “This generation significantly reduces the amount of unique parts in the robot, and every component has been designed for compatibility with automotive supply chains. With Hyundai Motor Group’s backing, we will achieve the best reliability and economies of scale in the industry.”
Hyundai Mobis is supplying the actuators for Atlas, and the two organizations plan to work together to build a robust component supply chain.
Looking for quick answers on assembly and manufacturing topics? Try Ask ASM, our new smart AI search tool. Ask ASM
Looking for a reprint of this article?
From high-res PDFs to custom plaques, order your copy today!
