Assembling BMW vehicles with several increased features is presently done by Figure 02, an enhanced humanoid robot Figure 01 replaced.
Figure 02 starts working alongside the former Figure 01 model at the BMW vehicle factory in South Carolina (USA) in the video that startup Figure AI uploaded on YouTube. But this humanoid robot is more remarkable than its “elder”.
In the video, the robot is shown turning on and starting a set of tests that mimic an actual auto assembly plant’s working environment. In comparison to the previous form, Figure 02’s hand is far more flexible. It can spin freely 16 degrees, move its fingers and wrists more quickly, and manipulate parts into matching millimeter-accurate locations. It is impossible to establish human connection.
Figure AI described Figure 02’s hand as one that “performs complex tasks such as a surgical robot at a hospital” in the description. With a maximum load of 25 kg, the robot can lift automobile parts and precisely place them in the installation location without making any mistakes.
In the video, the robot makes blunders as a result of an impact created by Figure AI. However, it immediately adapts, corrects errors on the spot and does not slow down the production line. Representatives from the firm claim that Figure 02 is equipped with three times the processing power of Figure 01, better cameras, microphones, sensors, and a more powerful battery. It also has improved voice communication capabilities.
This robot can carry out tasks that resemble those of a human fully autonomously. Its two hands perform a variety of tasks, including intricate gripping and simultaneous synchronization of both. “We are assessing its safe application in the manufacturing of automobiles,” BMW spokesperson Benedikt Torka stated to The Sun.
Milan Nedeljkovic, a member of the BMW board of directors, said that integrating humanoid robots into auto manufacturing is “very promising” based on what has been tried.
“With early testing, we are now identifying possible applications for humanoid robots in manufacturing,” Nedeljkovic said.
But Figure 02’s presence also raises questions. Author Michael Walsh said that this new robot depicts “a sci-fi disaster that can become reality” in a post on Nerdist. Several YouTube viewers claimed to have received “goosebumps” upon seeing the new robot’s characteristics. A few others are even more worried that humanoid robots may “rob” people of their employment sooner rather than later than previously thought.
Founded in the United States in 2022, Figure AI gained attention from investors very fast, garnering a valuation of USD 2.6 billion. After the firm and BMW inked their first business deal in January, humanoid robots were installed in the German automaker’s Spartanburg, South Carolina (USA) production facility. Before beginning official manufacturing operations, robots must undergo a 12- to 24-month training period.
Humanoid robots are now being used on manufacturing lines by several automakers. Mercedes said in March that it was utilizing the Apollo robot from Apptronik to carry out basic duties like picking up and moving parts. China’s Nio followed suit. On production lines, Honda and Hyundai have been experimenting with automating risky and monotonous activities with robots. The Chinese automaker Geely’s Zeekr subsidiary has started testing Walker S Lite for basic manufacturing operations most recently.
