Boston Dynamics is a world leader in robotics. The company designs and manufactures robots of varying capabilities and exceptional design. The company is based out of Waltham, Massachusetts and was founded back in 1992. The team of talented engineers have previously manufactured robots named BigDog, Spot, Stretch and Handle. In their latest video, the organization depicted how their Atlas robot can perform complex humanoid actions to near perfection.
The humanlike robot was able to navigate rugged terrain with ease while walking on two legs, very much like a human. Through a complex array of sensors and cameras, it maps its surroundings and perceives obstacles. However, in the latest video, the robot can be seen picking up a plank and creating a bridge to walk between two platforms. It does so while holding onto a toolkit. Atlas then effortlessly walks across the thin plank and tosses the toolkit to the person on top of the scaffolding. The company refers to this motion as an inverted 540-degree, multi-axis flip. But it doesn’t stop there; the robot does a backflip off the platform before landing perfectly on its feet again.
A demo such as this depicts how humanoid robots such as Atlas are capable of performing tasks too dangerous for humans, such as working at extreme heights or carrying materials through an area too toxic or narrow for a human. Search and Rescue operations can be simplified to a higher degree with the implementation of robots. They can even be used to maintain and inspect infrastructure, such as pipelines and bridges. Human casualties can be minimized this way. Sure, there is a dilemma regarding replacing human workers with robots, but doing so for perilous tasks is nothing but a step towards increasing the value placed on human life.
RELATED:
- Chinese robotics firm unveils AlphaDog, a cheaper alter ego to Boston Dynamics’ Spot
- Boston Dynamics’ Spot deployed by the French Army in combat drill for reconnaissance
- Boston Dynamics unveils Stretch, a warehouse logistics robot that can lift boxes
(Source)
