Remember Atlas, the anthropomorphic robot created by Boston Dynamics, already developers of the legendary BigDog?
The continuous improvements to which Atlas is constantly subjected have produced more and more advanced versions: the android slowly started to keep in balance, then to walk, then to jump.
Today he is able to use the whole body (arms, legs and torso) to perform a series of highly advanced dynamic maneuvers. Today more than ever it amazes to see a machine move more and more like a well trained human being.
Faster
The latest improvements stem from new techniques that have accelerated development processes.
First among all an optimization algorithm capable of transforming the "description" of a maneuver (a sort of musical score) into actual actions performed by Atlas.
Secondly, a new predictive model that allows Atlas to link the various actions together in a coherent and conservative way, as a natural person would instinctively.
Using these new approaches, Atlas' routine has become faster than ever, allowing an 80% maneuvering effectiveness.
Every 10 movements, in other words, Atlas makes 2 mistakes. One day he will do everything perfectly, and it will be then that I will ask him to take the next step: go and throw paper and cardboard in my place.
