Tesla’s Nimbler Optimus Robot Could Make You Eggs For Breakfast
Video screenshot via Tesla
Tesla is taking another crack at the world of humanoid robots with the unveiling of Optimus Gen 2, the latest prototype that’s more than just a metallic sidekick. This new version steps up from its predecessor, showcasing enhanced capabilities that seemed futuristic not long ago.
The Optimus Gen 2 comes packed with significant hardware upgrades, like Tesla-designed actuators, sensors with a knack for precision, and a 2-DoF actuated neck that adds a new dimension to its movement. The automaker has integrated electronics and harnessing directly into the actuators, streamlining the robot’s design.
Video screenshot via Tesla
CEO Elon Musk envisions Optimus as a helper for monotonous tasks, taking over the dreary and repetitive chores that humans prefer to avoid. The robot has been fine-tuned for speed, now walking 30% faster, and sports foot force/torque sensing with articulated toes and a design mimicking human feet. Speed aside, it also achieves a balance and control that mirror human movements.
The humanoid robot now boasts 11-DoF hands equipped with tactile sensing on all digits, allowing it to handle delicate tasks, like holding an egg without the oops moment of cracking it.
Video screenshot via Tesla
In a demonstration, Optimus Gen 2 is even seen prepping to poach an egg, showcasing its newfound dexterity.
Lighter by 10 kg (22 lbs), Optimus Gen 2’s reduced weight translates into greater mobility and functionality, making it more adept at navigating and performing tasks in a human-centric world.
Initially, Musk joked that Optimus would be slow enough for humans to “run away from it.” While the bot moves faster now, apprehensive folks can still rest easy that the probability of AI apex predators taking over in the near future is low. Optimus Gen 2 remains in the prototype phase with no plans for production or sale yet.
This latest demo hints at significant progress toward a future where robots and humans could coexist, with the former taking on tasks that allow the latter more freedom and creativity in their daily lives.
[via The Independent, Dazed, Ars Technica, Electrek, video and screenshots via Tesla]
