The future is getting closer with the new FIGURE 02 robots, capable of performing tasks powered by AI
Well, as I was saying, "the future is today... Well, the feeling in recent months is that every day we get closer and closer to that futuristic technological development full of innovation, improvements and possibilities that just a handful of years ago we could only imagine.
Let's chat about the world of robotics, focusing on an exciting new development: FIGURE 02, the latest evolution in humanoid robots created by the company Figure Robot.
This robot has captured the attention of the technology community—and with good reason—for its impressive design and advanced capabilities. But what makes FIGURE 02 so special? In this article, I will explore with you its key features and how it can help us in the robotics industry.
An early announcement
The expectation for FIGURE 02 It began with a previous announcement that the company launched on August 3 as a trailer
This announcement —which was a preview of the official presentation—, revealed what the robot would later look like on August 6, a date that many were eagerly awaiting. Let's see what they have finally presented.
The company behind the robot: Figure Robot
Let's first talk about the creators of this humanoid. Figure Robot was founded in 2022 with an ambitious goal: develop humanoid robots that can serve as platforms for artificial general intelligence (AGI) which is expected to revolutionize the next decade.
Since its founding, the company has worked closely with artificial intelligence labs, including OpenAI, to integrate cutting-edge technology into their robots. In fact, they already counted on them as allies in their FIGURE 01 model.
Collaboration with OpenAI
One of the most impressive demonstrations this year has been the collaboration of Figure Robot with OpenAI, using GPT-4o multimodal technology, a system capable of listening, seeing and executing actions based on instructions it receives from humans.
This integration has allowed Figure’s robots to gain impressive skills, such as the ability to identify objects and perform fluid actions, all thanks to the powerful artificial intelligence that drives their systems.
The first model: Figure 01
Before we delve into the improvements of FIGURE 02, it is important to talk about its predecessor, Figure 01. This robot, although impressive, had certain limitations that made it less viable as a final product.
The design was much less careful, very exposed and fragile, which made it unviable for everyday use and limited its applicability in real environments. However, FIGURE 02 has addressed and overcome these limitations in significant ways.
FIGURE 02: An improved design
Compact and robust design
FIGURE 02 presents a much more compact and robust design compared to its predecessor. The internal complexity of the robot is now better integrated, making it more durable and suitable for practical use. In addition, significant improvements have been made to the design of its hands and hips, allowing for more fluid and precise movements.
Improvement in hands
One of the most notable features of FIGURE 02 is the design of your hands. With a fourth generation of robotic hands that offer 16 degrees of freedom in its movementsFIGURE 02 can perform complex tasks with great dexterity. This advancement allows for more precise manipulation of objects, mimicking the flexibility and adaptability of human hands.
Articulation and flexibility
The level of detail in the finger articulation, as well as the flexibility of the wrists, is impressive. This improvement is crucial for handling tools and objects in industrial environments, where precision is essential.
Vision system and sensors
FIGURE 02 is equipped with an advanced vision system, composed of six cameras that provide a three-dimensional perception of the environment. This allows the robot to navigate and perform tasks with greater autonomy and precision, a key advance in the development of humanoid robots.
The challenge of locomotion
Despite numerous improvements, FIGURE 02 still faces challenges in terms of its locomotion. Although its walking ability has improved, it still displays a somewhat clumsy gait compared to other robots, such as those in Boston DynamicsHowever, this is an aspect that the company continues to perfect, with the expectation of achieving a more natural and efficient operation in the future.
Applications in industry: Collaboration with BMW
Robots in factories
One of the most interesting use cases of FIGURE 02 is its application in factories, as demonstrated in his collaboration with BMW. In this scenario, FIGURE 02 has been trained to perform specific tasks, such as moving parts from one location to another within an assembly plantAlthough the task is specific, the robot shows a certain flexibility, adapting to variations in the environment thanks to its capacity for generalization, a product of its training with neural networks.
Training and adaptability
It is important to note that although FIGURE 02 is capable of performing specific tasks, requires a prior training process to adapt to these tasks. This raises the question of whether humanoid robots like FIGURE 02 are the best choice for all industrial applications., or whether more traditional robots, such as robotic arms, still have a predominant role in certain environments.
Artificial intelligence powers FIGURE 02
Models of vision, language and action
FIGURE 02 benefits from the integration of advanced artificial intelligence models developed by OpenAI. These models allow the robot to process visual and auditory information in real time, and make decisions based on common sense, selecting the most appropriate action for each situation.
One of the great advances that have made possible the integration of these models into physical robots is the reduction of inference times. This allows FIGURE 02 to execute commands in real time, which is crucial for its operation in dynamic and changing environments.
Where are we going? The future of humanoid robotics
FIGURE 02 represents a major step forward in humanoid robotics, integrating advanced artificial intelligence and improved design that makes it more viable for industrial applications. However, there are still challenges to overcome, especially in terms of locomotion and general adaptability to previously untrained tasks.
It is clear that we are entering a decade where robotics, driven by advances in artificial intelligence, will play a crucial role in various industries. While there is still a long way to go before we see robots like FIGURE 02 in our homes or factories on a widespread basis, The progress is undeniable and exciting.
