New and Improved Atlas Robot

Boston Dynamics has unveiled their new Atlas Humanoid robot after retiring the old Atlas with an all-new slimmer and electric design. The new design hopes to bring new capabilities in the new version that looks to push robotic development further.

Retired Predecessor

The old hydraulic version which is now officially retired was revealed in 2013. In its first iteration, Atlas stood at 1.90m tall and weighed 150kg. Over the years Boston Dynamics continued to develop Atlas’ design and we have been it hop, jump, and twirl across a mat and throw around tool bags.

Video: Farewell to HD Atlas by Boston Dynamics

Upgraded Atlas

The new Atlas is Boston Dynamics all-electric version designed to offer a far greater range of movement than its predecessor. The new design has swivelling joints that make it capable of tackling dull, dirty, and dangerous tasks. The electric version will be stronger, quicker, and more agile to enable the robot to move efficiently and exceed human capabilities. The new Atlas has longer limbs, a straighter back, and a distinct head that can swivel. The design has no cables in sight with face including a built-in ring light. The new version will include new AI and machine learning tools giving it better learning capabilities. The company will continue to build on the capabilities achieved in the last generation such as lifting and manoeuvring objects. Still, it will explore several new gripper variations to prepare the robot for various industry environments. Over the next few years, Boston Dynamics will test the new Atlas with a small group of customers to learn, understand, and improve its capabilities.

Video: All New Atlas by Boston Dynamics

Summary

The upgraded electric version provides a slimmer profile than its old hydraulic version and will build on the foundations built by its predecessor. The old Atlas made huge strands in robotics development from walking on uneven terrain to making backflips look easy. The new electric version will enable Boston Dynamics to take robotic development to a new level and push robotics development into unchartered waters. It will be interesting to see what new developments can be achieved in the new electric version.