American robot manufacturer Boston Dynamics recently demonstrated that its Atlas humanoid robot can now operate fully autonomously, adapting to its environment even when faced with the unexpected.

In a video posted online, Atlas can be seen moving various components between supplier containers and a mobile sequencing cart with full autonomy. The robot appears to be as agile as a human worker. In this particular example, it is performing sorting tasks in a factory, moving engine covers from containers to a mobile cart.

To perform this task, Atlas uses a machine-learning vision model to detect and locate the various elements nearby and, in this case, to locate the individual storage bins. Extraordinarily agile, it executes all its movements autonomously, without any external help or pre-programmed action, as was the case, for example, during the last Tesla Optimus demonstration. What's more, the robot is able to adapt to changes in its environment should it encounter an obstacle, for example, and it can even correct its mistakes in the event of a trip or a collision.

The result is impressive, and far surpasses the latest demonstration of Tesla's Optimus robot, and those of other competitors. Humanoid robot projects are multiplying rapidly, mainly in the United States, but also in China, where some models are already on the market.

The automotive industry should be first in line to benefit from this technology. Hyundai, which now owns Boston Dynamics, may well be able to demonstrate the real-world application of this technology in the near future by integrating one or more Atlas robots into its factories. Other manufacturers have already done so, albeit with slightly less impressive robots. This is the case of Mercedes and BMW, who have already embarked on various test phases, in partnership with Apptronik and Figure, respectively.

- AFP Relaxnews