Engineers are making significant strides in the development of humanoid robots capable of performing tasks traditionally reserved for human workers. Recent advancements in artificial intelligence are propelling robots like Boston Dynamics’ Atlas from laboratory settings to real-world applications, particularly in manufacturing environments. As concerns rise regarding the displacement of jobs by AI, a competitive landscape has emerged among major players including Tesla, various startups backed by Amazon and Nvidia, and state-supported companies from China.
One of the leaders in this field, Boston Dynamics, is currently in the spotlight as it showcases Atlas, a humanoid robot that stands at 5 feet 9 inches and weighs approximately 200 pounds. The Massachusetts-based company, valued at over $1 billion, has benefitted from an 88% stake held by South Korean automobile manufacturer Hyundai. Recently, representatives from Boston Dynamics invited observers to the Hyundai factory in Savannah, Georgia, for the first real-world test of Atlas.
Hyundai’s advanced auto plant features more than 1,000 robots collaborating with nearly 1,500 human workers in a high-tech environment. During the demonstration, Atlas was observed sorting roof racks for the assembly line autonomously, marking a notable milestone in the robot’s development. Zack Jackowski, head of Atlas development, expressed a mix of excitement and nerves as he prepared to showcase the robot’s capabilities to Hyundai’s executives.
The evolution of Atlas has been remarkable. In previous visits to Boston Dynamics, the robot was primarily hydraulic and reliant on manually coded algorithms. The latest iteration features an all-electric body and an AI-driven system powered by Nvidia‘s cutting-edge microchips, allowing Atlas to perform complex tasks independently. Observers noted its ability to skip and run with surprising agility, indicating a shift toward a more intuitive approach to robotic programming.
The programming of Atlas has evolved significantly, focusing on machine learning rather than traditional coding methods. As Scott Kuindersma, head of robotics research, explained, the current programming techniques involve teaching robots through demonstrations and supervised learning. This approach allows Atlas to learn from human movements, adapting its actions accordingly.
During the demonstration, Atlas was trained to mimic human actions using a virtual reality setup that captured the movements of a human operator. This innovative method involved the use of over 4,000 digital avatars to simulate various tasks, enabling Atlas to refine its skills in a controlled environment.
Despite these advancements, challenges remain. Scott Kuindersma acknowledged that many everyday human tasks, such as pouring a cup of coffee or getting dressed, are still beyond the capabilities of current humanoid robots. However, he expressed optimism that AI advancements could lead to a future where robots like Atlas can perform these tasks effectively.
The underlying technology driving Atlas is its AI system, which processes vast amounts of data collected from its sensors. This capability positions Atlas to potentially develop a form of common sense, allowing it to navigate complex environments more effectively. Robert Playter, CEO of Boston Dynamics, emphasized the goal of creating robots that can exceed human capabilities in specific tasks, including those that are dangerous or physically demanding.
While the prospect of humanoid robots taking on human jobs raises concerns about job displacement, Playter reassured that these robots will not replace workers entirely. Instead, they will take on repetitive and physically taxing tasks, which may change the nature of certain jobs rather than eliminate them. He highlighted the ongoing need for human oversight in robot management, training, and maintenance.
Looking ahead, the market for humanoid robots is projected to expand significantly, with Goldman Sachs estimating it could reach $38 billion within the next decade. The competition includes not only U.S. firms but also formidable Chinese companies, which are rapidly advancing their own robotic technologies. Playter noted that while the U.S. currently leads the field, the scale of investment from China poses a tangible threat.
At the recent demonstration, Heung-soo Kim, Hyundai’s head of global strategy, expressed satisfaction with Atlas‘s progress, describing it as the beginning of an exciting journey toward a future where humanoid robots work alongside humans. As the industry continues to evolve, the potential for robots like Atlas to integrate into daily life and work remains a topic of keen interest and debate.
