On April 17th, pulsestacks reported a surprising development in the field of humanoid robotics. While numerous players are actively engaged in advancing humanoid robotics, industry trailblazer Boston Dynamics has made an unexpected decision: to formally retire its hydraulic-driven humanoid robot, Atlas.
PulseStacks noted that the decision seems contradictory to the thriving field of humanoid robotics. Currently, major companies are investing hundreds of millions of dollars in developing humanoid robots. However, analysts suggest that Atlas' retirement may not signify an end but rather clearing the path for new projects in the company's future.
In recent years, Boston Dynamics has been dedicated to commercializing its technological products. The acquisition by Hyundai and the appointment of the company's second CEO, Rob Playter, have further accelerated this process. Coupled with the strong interest in humanoid robotics companies like Agility, Figure, 1X, and Apptronik, it's not hard to speculate that Boston Dynamics has at least seriously considered entering the commercial humanoid robotics field.
Indeed, Boston Dynamics has been at the forefront of humanoid robot development. The Atlas robot made its debut in 2013 and has since traversed a decade-long journey. Initially funded by the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA), Atlas gained prominence in DARPA's robotics challenge.
DARPA stated: "Atlas was one of the most advanced humanoid robots of its time, but fundamentally, it was just a physical vessel for software 'brains' and 'nerves.'" At the time, DARPA project manager Gill Pratt likened Atlas to a baby, "a one-year-old child staggering and falling as it learns to walk. When comparing these robots to science fiction, remember that this is the stage of development we are currently in."
Over the past decade, Atlas has made significant strides and has consistently appeared in Boston Dynamics' research and promotional videos. However, today marks the end of the Atlas robot's journey. While its many breakthroughs in mobility remain impressive, technologies like hydraulic actuators seem somewhat outdated in today's robotics field.
Interestingly, just this February, Boston Dynamics released a video titled "Atlas Struts," showcasing the robot's latest capabilities, hinting at the project's commercialization. The video demonstrated Atlas' impressive augmented reality perception and a new gripper designed for factory floor operations. Considering Hyundai's background, one can easily envision future "descendants" of Atlas appearing on automotive assembly lines.
As a farewell gift, Boston Dynamics released a video revisiting Atlas' highlights and comical moments of falling. This serves as both a tribute and a glimpse into the hard work behind those perfectly orchestrated videos.
