Humanoid Robot Walks for First Time

Seven months after it unveiled a first look at its humanoid robot, Figure officially introduced its Figure 01 robot this week. 

The announcement included a demonstration of what the company calls the “world’s first commercially viable” humanoid robot. Walking “a milestone the team was able to hit within 12 months of company inception,” the company said.

Figure is currently working on designing control software that will enable Figure 01 to work in many environments by using torque-controlled walking. modular control strategy, whole body reasoning and focus on manipulation. 

Figure presented the first look at Figure 01 in March. 

The design of Figure 01 is a “human form,” according to the company, giving it hands for opening doors and using tools and legs for more efficient movement climbing stairs and lifting boxes. It also features an artificial intelligence system that allows it to “think, learn and interact” with its environment and the people around it. 

“Figure 01 brings together the dexterity of the human form and cutting-edge AI to go beyond single-function robots and lend support across manufacturing, logistics, warehousing and retail,” according to the company website.
In May, the robotic startup announced it raised $70 million for its plans to build general-purpose humanoid robots, in its first external funding round. In June it received an additional $9 million in funding from Intel Capital.

Related:Figure Unveils First Look at Its Humanoid Robot

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