SPARTANBURG, SC\u2014BMW Group is expanding its use of humanoid robots at its assembly plant here. The company will be using Figure AI\u2019s next-generation Figure 03 machines for complex sequencing applications in logistics.<\/p>\n
Last year, the factory completed a successful test using a Figure 02 robot in the body shop. The machine inserted sheet metal parts for the welding process. The pilot program demonstrated that humanoid robots can safely perform precise, repeatable tasks under real-world production conditions.<\/p>\n
\u201cPlant Spartanburg is the birthplace of humanoid robotics in [our] operational day-to-day activities,\u201d says Ulrich Wieland, vice president of production control and logistics at BMW Manufacturing. \u201cHumanoid robotics is a value-adding complement to existing automation.<\/p>\n
\u201cIts potential lies particularly in monotonous, ergonomically demanding, or safety-critical activities,\u201d explains Wieland. \u201cThe aim is to protect and most effectively utilize employees while further improving workplaces.\u201d<\/p>\n
\u201cHumanoids are no longer lab experiments\u2014they can be a valuable asset in establishing a flexible, reliable manufacturing workforce,\u201d adds Brett Adcock, CEO of Figure AI. \u201c[Our robot] introduces several new features for expanded applications.<\/p>\n
\u201cThese include soft components designed for enhanced safety, wireless charging designed for higher availability and audio functions for speech-to-speech communication, along with improved hands with tactile sensors and palm cameras designed to increase precision and dexterity,\u201d Adcock points out. \u00a0 \u00a0<\/p>\n
In the new sequencing application, parts will initially arrive in larger containers, unsorted. Figure 03 will pick them up and sort them into a sequencing trolley.<\/p>\n
\u201cThe trolley will then be taken to a defined collection point for onward transport,\u201d says Wieland. \u201cAn automated tugger train or [a mobile robot] will then transport the parts to the installation location, where they will be provided to assembly employees just in sequence. This use case occurs frequently in automotive production logistics and offers potential for further development and scalability.\u201d<\/p>\n