BMW Group has initiated trials of humanoid robots at its Spartanburg plant. This marks the first time the company has integrated such advanced robotics into its production environment, potentially signalling a new era in automotive manufacturing.
The robot under testing is Figure 02, developed by California-based company Figure. At approximately 170 cm tall and weighing 70 kilograms, Figure 02 represents the latest advancements in humanoid robotics technology. With a load capacity of 20 kilograms, this robot is designed to perform tasks requiring precision and strength.
Brett Adcock, founder and CEO of Figure, describes Figure 02 as “the most advanced humanoid robot in the world to reach the market so far.” This claim is supported by the robot’s impressive features and capabilities, which were tested in BMW’s production environment.
During the BMW Group Plant Spartanburg trial period, Figure 02 was tasked with inserting sheet metal parts. These components were subsequently assembled as part of the vehicle chassis. This task was chosen specifically to test the robot’s skill and precision, as it requires careful handling and accurate placement of components.
Milan Nedeljković, Board Member for Production at BMW AG, emphasized the importance of these trials: “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.”
The testing phase, which lasted several weeks, provided valuable insights into the potential integration of humanoid robots into existing production systems. One crucial aspect under evaluation was the robot’s ability to communicate effectively with the production system during real-world operations.
Figure 02 represents a move forward in humanoid robot technology. Compared to its predecessor, this latest model boasts a threefold increase in computing power and improved voice communication capabilities. It is equipped with advanced cameras, microphones, and sensors, allowing it to perceive and interact with its environment more effectively.
One of Figure 02’s most notable features is its hands. Designed to mimic human hands in size and capability, they offer 16 active degrees of freedom per hand. This skill level allows the robot to perform a wide range of tasks requiring precision and complex manipulation.
The robot’s battery system has also improved, providing longer operational times between charges. This enhanced power management is crucial for maintaining productivity in a manufacturing environment.
This current round of testing of Figure 02 at BMW Group Plant Spartanburg opens up numerous possibilities for applying humanoid robots in automotive production. These robots could be used for physically demanding, repetitive, or ergonomically challenging tasks for human workers. Some potential applications include:
- Assembly of small components
- Material handling and transportation
- Quality control inspections
- Assistance with complex manufacturing processes
By taking on these tasks, humanoid robots like Figure 02 could help improve overall production efficiency while enhancing workplace safety and ergonomics for human employees.
While the potential benefits of humanoid robots in manufacturing are significant, their integration into existing production systems presents several challenges. Safety is a primary concern, and BMW Group is actively Challenging Safety Considerations about the safety implications of using humanoid robots alongside human workers.
The testing of humanoid robots aligns with BMW Group’s vision for the future of production, known as BMW iFACTORY. This concept focuses on efficiency, digitalization, and sustainability in manufacturing processes.
Nedeljković explains, “The BMW iFACTORY is the BMW Group’s vision of future production and a constant testbed for new technologies.” Integrating advanced robotics, like Figure 02, is crucial to realizing this vision.
If these trials prove successful, we may see a gradual increase in the use of humanoid robots across various stages of automotive production. However, it’s important to note that currently, there are no permanent Figure AI robots at BMW Group Plant Spartanburg, and no definite timetable has been established for their full-scale deployment.
The testing of Figure 02 humanoid robots at BMW Group Plant Spartanburg represents a significant step towards the potential automation of complex manufacturing tasks in the automotive industry. While the results of these trials are promising, further development and testing will be necessary before we see widespread adoption of humanoid robots in car production.
As the technology continues to evolve, collaboration between robotics companies like Figure and automotive manufacturers like BMW Group will be crucial in shaping the future of manufacturing. Integrating advanced robotics could lead to more efficient, safer, and more sustainable production processes in the automotive industry.
TLDR:
- BMW Group is testing Figure 02 humanoid robots at its Spartanburg plant
- The robots can perform complex tasks like inserting sheet metal parts into fixtures
- Figure 02 has advanced features, including improved computing power and dexterity
- Testing aligns with BMW’s factory vision for future production
- Challenges include safety considerations and system integration
- No timeline has been set for the permanent deployment of robots in production
