Figure takes a significant leap with the reveal of Figure 02, their successor humanoid robot model that utilizes next-generation artificial intelligence (AI) to perform a wide range of tasks.
The announcement was first introduced through a short teaser video showcasing close-ups of the robot. As shown in the video, the robot joints were depicted to have ratings of 150 Nm (the torque resulting from a force of one Newton applied perpendicularly to the end of a one-meter-long moment arm) and a range of motion of 195 degrees.
The full specifications were later then revealed in a two-minute video on August 6, 2024, boasting improved dexterity, self-correcting mechanisms, improved battery efficiency, and more.
Figure aims to enhance productivity in various industries, positioning itself against competitors like Tesla’s Optimus, which Elon Musk has predicted to be selling by the end of next year.
Key Features
The robot possesses advanced conversational abilities, enabling natural interaction with humans through the power of custom AI models developed in partnership with OpenAI.
Equipped with a vision language model, Figure 02 can also intelligently understand and respond to visual information. The robot perceives the world through its six AI-driven vision RGB cameras. Its 4th generation hands allow it to move with 16 degrees of freedom and human-like strength.
Underneath its shiny metal shins, the robot now packs a 2.25 kWh battery to utilize 50% more energy at runtime, as well as integrated wiring to conceal its critical core.
In terms of computational power, Figure 02 boasts 3x that of its previous generation, possibly enhancing the response time and expanding the categories of tasks that the robot can do.
Company background
Figure is a robotic company founded by Brett Adcock in 2022, also a former founder of Archer Aviation and Vettery. The company has raised $675M, funded by several industry giants such as OpenAI, NVIDIA, and Microsoft.
Its team comprises 40 industry experts, including its Chief Technology Officer, Dr. Jerry Pratt, who has over 20 years of experience in AI from his former company, IHMC.
Figure first emerged with their humanoid robot, Figure 01, in collaboration with OpenAI to utilize their GPT-4V and vision-language model. The company aims to populate the market with productivity, safety, and efficiency innovations in manufacturing, logistics, storage, and retail.
The company has been steadily growing since and recently hit a milestone in a deal with BMW Manufacturing, bringing their robots to automated production.
Market Context
The humanoid robotics market is gradually evolving, with major players like Tesla and Boston Dynamics competing.
“Single-purpose robotics have saturated the commercial market for decades, but the potential of general-purpose robotics is completely untapped. Figure’s robots will enable companies to increase productivity, reduce costs, and create a safer and more consistent environment,” said Adcock.
On the same note, Musk has stated that he expects the humanoid robot market to be at least 10 billion, with more than one for every person. He hopes to take part in production with Tesla Motors, mainly referencing their own rival humanoid robot in development, Optimus.
Advancements in generative AI technology have enhanced robots’ ability to interact with, see, and understand the world in ways similar to humans. While the technology seems to materialize what we once thought were sci-fi concepts into reality, the developments are majorly constrained to research environments and controlled settings.
The industry, however, is always exploring methods to reduce the complexity of manufacturing and developing these products. For example, robotics pioneer Boston Dynamics previewed a version of its robot Atlas with electric motors rather than hydraulic actuators, making it cheaper and more reliable.
Figure 02 highlights the intense competition within the field of robotics, now racing to meet the demands for AI-powered humanoid machines. Bolstered by substantial investment from its major backers, Figure is well-positioned to continue ahead independently.
