Tesla's Optimus humanoid robot has resurfaced, showcasing its ability to handle a practical task: the precise placement of battery cells into a tray. In a video released by Tesla on May 5th, the robot's advancements are highlighted, demonstrating its proficiency in interpreting 2D camera footage and sensor data through a trained neural network. This enables Optimus to autonomously generate the required joint movements for the task at hand.
Optimus Robots in Action
Tesla has confirmed that multiple Optimus robots are now actively utilized within their factories. These robots are engaged in daily operational testing and refinement at real workstations. Despite successfully navigating office settings for prolonged periods without issues, the quest for increased operational speeds remains an ongoing area of development.
Future Outlook and Projections
Elon Musk, Tesla's CEO, had previously outlined his expectations for Optimus during the first-quarter earnings call. Musk anticipates that by the end of the year, Optimus will be proficient in executing "useful" tasks within the factory setting. Tesla's objective includes integrating Optimus into their production facilities before the year concludes, with potential plans for external sales by the close of 2025.