Humanoid robots – the future of production?

Humanoid robots – the future of production? Revolution in factories? BMW is testing a robot that works like a human!

The automotive world has always been synonymous with innovation. Production lines in the largest factories in the world are complex systems of machines that assemble cars with precision worthy of a Swiss watch. However, even in such a highly automated environment, new solutions are emerging that are expected to further revolutionize production. One of them is a humanoid robot that is currently undergoing tests at BMW plants. Humanoid robots – the future of production?

Figure F.02 – a robot that thinks and acts like a human



Figure F.02, as this unusual robot is called, was created by the American company Figure. Its design is modeled on the human body, which allows it to perform tasks that have previously been reserved only for humans. Thanks to advanced artificial intelligence, the robot is able to learn and adapt to new working conditions. Figure F.02 – A robot that looks like a human: detailed description



Figure F.02 is a remarkable feat of engineering that combines advanced technology with nature-inspired aesthetics. It was designed to resemble a human as closely as possible, both in appearance and function.



External appearance:




humanoid silhouette - the robot has two legs, a torso and a head, which in general outline resemble a human body. Thanks to this, it can move in an environment created for people and use tools designed with us in mind;





nimble hands - the robot's hands are extremely sophisticated. They have many joints, which enable them to perform precise movements. Hands are equipped with fingers that allow you to grasp and manipulate objects ranging from delicate tools to heavier items;





minimalist aesthetics although the robot is intended to imitate a human, its design is rather minimalist. The smooth, metallic surface gives it a futuristic look, and the lack of unnecessary elements emphasizes its functionality.




Technical specifications:




battery - Figure F.02 is equipped with a 2.25 kWh battery. Thanks to this, it can work for several hours without the need to charge. The exact working time depends on the intensity of the tasks performed;





weight - the exact weight of the robot has not been officially announced, but it is estimated that it may be several dozen kilograms. Lightweight construction is key to ensuring mobility and agility;





strength - the robot has actuators that enable it to perform various tasks. Although its strength is not yet equal to that of a human, it is sufficient to perform many industrial tasks;





sensors - Figure F.02 is equipped with a number of sensors, such as cameras, distance and force sensors. Thanks to them, it can receive signals from the environment, avoid collisions and perform tasks with high precision.




The anthropomorphic design of the robot has many advantages.




intuitive operation - thanks to its appearance, the robot is more intuitive to use. People can more easily understand how it works and what its capabilities are;





adaptation to the human environment - the robot can work in an environment created for humans, using tools and devices designed with us in mind;





easier cooperation with people - people have a natural tendency to interact with other people. The robot's anthropomorphic appearance facilitates cooperation and building trust.










What can the Figure F.02 robot do?



During tests at the BMW factory in Spartanburg, the robot successfully performed tasks requiring high precision and dexterity, such as inserting sheet metal parts into fixtures. Although its movements are not yet as smooth as human movements, its efficiency and accuracy are impressive. Moreover, the robot is able to work for many hours without a break, which is unattainable for humans. The applications of a humanoid robot in car production are just the beginning. Although for now we are focusing on its ability to perform precise manual tasks, such as inserting sheet metal parts, the potential of the Figure F.02 is much greater.



A humanoid robot can potentially perform many tasks:




adaptation to new tasks - thanks to artificial intelligence, the robot can be easily trained to perform new tasks, which increases its versatility;





quality control - thanks to advanced sensors, the robot can carry out detailed inspections of products, detecting even the smallest defects;





assembly of complex elements - its ability to precisely grasp and manipulate objects allows for the assembly of elements that require high dexterity;





work in hard-to-reach places - thanks to its humanoid form, the robot can reach places that are hard to reach for people;





cooperation with people - the robot can work side by side with people, taking over the most monotonous and repetitive tasks from them.




Why are humanoid robots the future?




Versatility - thanks to their design, humanoid robots can perform a wide range of tasks that require both strength and precision;





Adaptability - artificial intelligence allows robots to constantly learn and improve their skills;





Safety - the robot can work in hazardous conditions, protecting people from injury;





Efficiency - the robot can work for many hours without interruption, which increases production efficiency.




Challenges and the future of humanoid robots



Although humanoid robots have great potential, there are still many challenges before their widespread use. One of the most important is the cost of production. Currently, robots of this type are very expensive, which limits their availability for many enterprises. In addition, it is necessary to further improve their software and hardware to increase their reliability and performance.



What will be the consequences of introducing humanoid robots into production?



On the one hand, humanoid robots can bring many benefits, such as increasing productivity, improving product quality and creating safer workplaces. On the other hand, their dissemination may lead to people losing their jobs. Therefore, it is important to consider all aspects of this technology and prepare for the changes it will bring.



Humanoid robots like Figure F.02 are proof of how quickly technology is developing. Although there is still a lot of work ahead of us, it cannot be denied that these robots have enormous potential that can revolutionize many industries, including the automotive industry. Time will tell whether robots will replace people in factories or rather become their partners, supporting them in their daily work.