Tag: ATLAS

  • Boston Dynamics Advances Atlas Robotics Development Progress

    Boston Dynamics Advances Atlas Robotics Development Progress

    Key Takeaways

    1. Boston Dynamics has introduced a new version of Atlas that does not use hydraulic power, addressing issues with leaks and maintenance costs from the previous model, Atlas HD.
    2. The new Atlas design allows for faster and more efficient movements, including 360-degree motion and the ability to walk backwards instead of turning around.
    3. Future applications for Atlas include roles in car manufacturing and other human workspaces, aiming to enhance productivity.
    4. Insights from practical uses of Atlas are helping to refine its functions as a working robot, similar to existing products like Spot and Stretch.
    5. Boston Dynamics is optimistic about integrating artificial intelligence to improve Atlas’ skill development in future applications.

    Almost one year since the introduction of the new Atlas, Boston Dynamics has shared a video showcasing significant advancements with the robot. In this latest update, the company elaborates on the capabilities of Atlas and discusses the benefits of shifting from the hydraulic-powered Atlas HD. Developers have described Atlas HD as “messy,” highlighting the high costs associated with the technology and its maintenance.

    New Features and Advantages

    The latest version of Atlas, which does not rely on hydraulics, has eliminated issues related to hydraulic fluid leaks that were common with Atlas HD. This new design allows the robot to operate more quickly and efficiently, thanks to its ability to perform numerous 360-degree movements without the limitations that come with human-like motion. For instance, instead of needing to turn around, the robot can simply walk backwards.

    Future Applications

    Boston Dynamics is committed to turning Atlas into a productive robot equipped with professional skills. In the future, Atlas is expected to assist in car manufacturing and will be implemented in workspaces that were originally meant for humans. It remains to be seen if Atlas will master the remarkable tasks that Atlas HD showcased over the years. Currently, there is a lack of a “fun video,” which has become a tradition for Boston Dynamics. Last year’s Halloween video featured Atlas sorting car parts for Hyundai, its owner.

    According to Boston Dynamics, insights from practical applications are aiding in refining Atlas’ function as a working robot. Products like Spot and Stretch are already available in the market. Additionally, the topic of artificial intelligence is addressed by Boston Dynamics, which expresses hope that AI will enhance Atlas’ skill development.

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  • Marvel Fusion’s $150M Laser Facility Aims for Fusion Energy Breakthrough

    Marvel Fusion’s $150M Laser Facility Aims for Fusion Energy Breakthrough

    The pursuit of fusion energy is gaining momentum. A significant advancement has been made with the opening of a new laser facility situated in Colorado. Fusion, the same process that fuels the Sun, has always been viewed as a key approach to producing endless, clean energy. Although researchers have been delving into fusion for many years, recent developments have rekindled optimism that it may soon become a practical energy solution.

    New Facility Announcement

    Marvel Fusion, a German startup, has teamed up with Colorado State University to begin work on a $150 million facility known as ATLAS. This cutting-edge facility will employ three ultra-high-intensity lasers to generate an astonishing 7 petawatts of power—exceeding 5,000 times the electrical output of the U.S. These lasers will aim at a fusion reaction by unleashing rapid pulses at a target the width of a hair, attempting to mimic the extreme heat and pressure necessary to combine atoms.

    Advancements in Energy Research

    According to Marvel Fusion, they plan to execute these laser bursts ten times each second, edging closer to establishing a continuous fusion reaction that can produce clean energy. Set to be finished by 2026, ATLAS is part of the broader initiative to make fusion energy commercially viable and will also contribute to advancements in medical research and technology.

    Government Support and Future Prospects

    In addition, the U.S. government has allocated $28 million towards this initiative, complemented by investments from Marvel Fusion and Colorado State University. It appears the project is on a promising path—only time will reveal whether this endeavor will ultimately succeed.

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