Tesla has just presented the latest version of his humanoid robot Optimus: it's called Gen 2, and its "ideas" are increasingly clear. He walks, dances and moves with a fluidity that is almost human: definitely a step forward in the future of automation and artificial intelligence.
Optimus Gen 2 moves fast: it weighs 10 kg less than its predecessor, is 30% faster and has unprecedented fluidity of movement. To use a parallel, his design is more reminiscent of a Model S than a Cybertruck. Nobody likes a spiky, angular humanoid robot, right? Well. Now: what else does he do?
Advanced features
With two more degrees of freedom in the neck, integrated electronics and wiring, and a more human foot shape equipped with force and torque sensors, Optimus Gen 2 takes robotics to the next level. His hands, totally redesigned, feature 11 degrees of freedom of movement, faster actuators and tactile sensors on all fingers, allowing more precise and delicate manipulation of objects.
Are we talking about aesthetics? The Gen 2's more slender, humanoid appearance, combined with its improved walking and balancing abilities, make it a half-prodigy. If you take a look at the video (at the bottom of this article) you will see for yourself.
The humanoid race among the giants of robotics
While Tesla's hardware development is impressive, the race remains tough. The company is still behind giants like Boston Dynamics in terms of athleticism and capabilities, and is playing “the game of life” with Agility Robotics, which aims for mass production. Agility, however, does not have the production capacity of Tesla which in fact, at least in words, she says she is even more determined.
Optimus Gen 2 precludes a radical change in the world of work. Companies are preparing the entry of humanoid robots in the large-scale labor market.
Their success will depend on their ability to carry out complex work in a repeatable, reliable and flexible way and to adapt to real working environments, paving the way for the radical changes of the coming years.
