Following the successful deployment of the humanoid robot Figure 02 at the BMW Group plant in Spartanburg, U.S., its further-developed successor, Figure 03, will now be put into operation in Spartanburg to perform complex sequencing tasks in logistics.
The BMW Group is stepping up its use of digitalization and artificial intelligence (AI) in production. With what is known as “Physical AI”—which combines digital AI with real machines and robots—intelligent systems such as humanoid robots can be integrated into real-world production processes. “The Spartanburg plant is the cradle of humanoid robotics in the BMW Group’s day-to-day operations. Having already successfully completed a pilot project with the Figure 02 in our body shop, we look forward to deploying the Figure 03 for a sequencing application in logistics,” says Ulrich Wieland, Vice President of Production Control and Logistics at BMW Manufacturing.
“Our 11-month deployment of Figure 02 has proven that humanoids are no longer just laboratory experiments—they can be a valuable part of building a flexible, reliable manufacturing workforce,” says Brett Adcock, founder and CEO of Figure AI: “We look forward to continuing our work in Spartanburg as Figure navigates the complexities of the assembly and logistics facility.”
As early as 2025, the BMW Group gained valuable experience with humanoid robotics at its Spartanburg plant. In collaboration with the technology company Figure AI, the Figure 02 robot supported the production of more than 30,000 BMW X3 vehicles over a period of ten months. In the body shop, the robot positioned sheet metal parts for the welding process—a task that demands high speeds and precision and can be physically demanding. The collaboration demonstrated that humanoid robots can safely perform precise and repeatable work steps under real production conditions.
Next Step with an Improved Robot (Figure 03)
The insights gained from this project form the basis for the next step with the successor model, Figure 03. “The robot features several new functions for expanded application possibilities. These include soft components to enhance safety, wireless charging for greater uptime, audio capabilities for speech-to-speech communication, and improved hands with tactile sensors and cameras in the palms for greater precision and dexterity,” explains Adcock.
Fonte: All-about-industries
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