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Robotics company Figure AI has unveiled its latest humanoid robot, said to be capable of making conversation and correcting its own behavior.
Figure 02 was released 10 months after the pilot version and marks a significant upgrade from its predecessor. For one, this humanoid has more dexterity than Figure 01 and can now also engage with others and learn from its mistakes.
The humanoid AI’s speech-to-speech software allows it to chat with people using the embedded microphones and speakers in its body, which are linked to custom AI models developed in partnership with OpenAI. It can also independently understand images and texts.
The California-based company’s latest model is also equipped with a 2.25 KWh custom battery pack located in the robot’s torso. According to the firm, the battery can deliver up to 50% more energy, giving it around a 7.5-hour lifespan between recharges.
-Onboard VLM: enables fast common-sense visual reasoning from robot cameras
-Battery: 2.25 KWh custom battery pack in the robot torso delivers 50%+ more energy
-CPU/GPU: 3x the computation and AI inference available on-board compared to the previous generation
— Figure (@Figure_robot) August 6, 2024
Figure 02 and BMW partnership
A video released by the company also showcased a more slimmed-down facade and a matte black frame in comparison to its previous glossy chrome exterior. Its articulated hands, described as a fourth-generation design, have 16 degrees of freedom and what the company refers to as “human-equivalent strength.” However, the bot appears to carry out the same types of tasks as Figure 01, since it was seen shuffling around BMW’s Spartanburg, S.C. factory floor.
It appears to transport portions of a car chassis between stations and then places the section in the correct location.
In a press release from the BMW Group, the company stated that during a trial, Figure 02 had “successfully inserted sheet metal parts into specific fixtures, which were then assembled as part of the chassis.” They claim this could “save employees from having to perform ergonomically awkward and tiring tasks.”
Figure CEO Brett Adcock confirmed that Figure 02 has “significant technical advancements,” which enable the robot to perform a wide range of complex tasks fully autonomously.
Milan Nedeljković, a member of BMW AG’s management board for production, said the results looked “promising.”
He added: “With an early test operation, we are now determining possible applications for humanoid robots in production. We want to accompany this technology from development to industrialization.”
Featured image: Figure AI / BMW Group
