In a new video released by Boston Dynamics, a construction worker is seen receiving tools passed to him by the company's prototype Atlas robot. This marks a significant shift in the messaging of the Hyundai-owned robotics company, which has previously focused on the dynamic movement capabilities of its robots, such as in its Parkour and Dance videos.
Scott Kuindersma, the team lead on Atlas, explained that the new video aims to demonstrate the expanded research the company is conducting on object perception and manipulation with Atlas. He stated, "We’re starting to put Atlas to work and think about how the robot should be able to perceive and manipulate objects in its environment,”. He also highlighted that a bipedal, bimanual robot like Atlas has the potential to perform tasks that other robots cannot, making it well-suited for manufacturing, factory work, and construction.
Currently, Boston Dynamics only sells two robots, Stretch and Spot, which are mainly used for warehouse logistics and surveillance respectively. However, other companies such as Tesla, led by Elon Musk, are also developing bipedal robots with the goal of implementing them in factory settings.
The company's control lead Ben Stephens also mentioned in a blog post that while advancements have been made, there is still a "long way off" from bipedal robots that can reliably work alongside humans.
It's important to note that the video is a carefully planned and edited representation of the robot's capabilities and Boston Dynamics has not announced any new products or plans to sell Atlas. However, it does give a glimpse into the future of robotics and the potential applications of bipedal robots in the workplace, helping construction worker to perform tasks more efficiently.
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