Boston Dynamics’ Atlas robot “learns” to grab and throw objects; Watch

This week, Boston Dynamics shared new tricks its popular Atlas robot has learned. In the update, a team of engineers from North American Robotics Corporation confirmed to the humanoid robot the ability to pick up objects, with tweezers that act like a human hand, with only three “fingers”.

In the demo, Atlas can be seen carrying various kinds of items, such as a gym dumbbell, a plank, and even a tool bag. One scene depicts one of people’s “biggest dreams”: for someone to come down the stairs and get you what you need, while you stay focused on another activity.

Below, check out the new demo, released on Wednesday (18), of the latest Atlas update:

It should be noted that the robot operates in a fully controlled environment, which is the facilities of Boston Dynamics. Including pictures made by me Offer activities where the Atlas system does not work, such as holding dumbbells that are heavier than the strength capacity of the new clamps. Another note already known: the robot is not intelligent, and the route is pre-programmed.

Evolution of the movements of the Atlas robot

According to the company, with updated accessories, the robot “exceeds the limits of movement, detection, and athletic ability” of the older versions—which is still just as impressive.

It is worth remembering that in 2021, Atlas went viral in a video where he does parkour. In the images, you can see the bipedal robot perform tricky maneuvers, including jumps, as it navigates a complex obstacle course. In the sequence of movements, there is even a “somersault”.

While parkour is fun, carrying objects “with your hands” is more complicated. This is because the machine needs to calculate the optimal force so that the element neither shatters (too tight) nor falls out (too loose). In addition, Atlas needs to maintain the same accuracy when walking with the object and, for example, when climbing stairs or jumping. This ability makes it even more special.

To understand what it’s like behind the scenes in this recording, check out the video made by meIn English: