Farewell, Atlas: 11 Years that Revolutionized Robotics

On April 16, 2024, Boston Dynamics released a video announcing the retirement of its most famous robot, Atlas. Launched in 2013 with DARPA support, Atlas was designed for search and rescue missions and accessing dangerous areas. The company’s ownership changed hands over the years, ultimately resulting in its acquisition by Hyundai in 2021.

Atlas stands out as a highly capable humanoid robot. We've been captivated by its development, from mastering basic walking to performing impressive feats like jumping, backflips, and gymnastic maneuvers that would challenge athletes. Notably, Atlas is powered by hydraulic motors, granting it exceptional physical strength and agility.

The retirement news may come as a surprise to some. Notably, in February, Boston Dynamics released a video showcasing Atlas performing tasks in a factory environment. This hinted at potential industrial applications, similar to robots used by car manufacturers like BMW (Figure 01) and Mercedes (Apollo), and Neo (Walker S).

Unlike Boston Dynamics’ commercially successful robotic dog Spot, Atlas wasn’t designed for a specific commercial application. Its complex hydraulic system, while granting impressive capabilities, may limit its practicality in many workplaces due to noise and potential bulk. This focus on commercial viability likely…