Tesla has introduced the second generation of its Optimus Robot on December 12, 2023, showcasing significant technological advancements. The new model, known as Optimus Gen 2, features a range of improvements aimed at enhancing its functionality and efficiency.
Key enhancements in the Optimus Gen 2 include Tesla-designed actuators and sensors, which are integral to the robot’s movement and interaction capabilities. The robot boasts a 2-Degree of Freedom (DoF) actuated neck, allowing for more flexible and human-like head movements. Looking at the video Tesla shared on Tuesday evening, the latest Optimus almost acts human-like.
A notable advancement is the integration of electronics and harnessing within the actuators, streamlining the robot’s design and functionality. Optimus Gen 2 achieves a 30% increase in walk speed compared to its predecessor, marking a significant step in its mobility. It looks so cool walking past parked Cybertrucks.
The robot’s feet have been equipped with force and torque sensing capabilities, along with articulated toe sections, closely mimicking human foot geometry. This design not only enhances balance but also contributes to a total weight reduction of 10 kilograms (22 pounds!), achieved without compromising the robot’s structural integrity.
There’s a new bot in town 🤖
Check this out (until the very end)!https://t.co/duFdhwNe3K pic.twitter.com/8pbhwW0WNc
— Tesla Optimus (@Tesla_Optimus) December 13, 2023
Improvements in balance and full-body control are evident in the new model, providing a more stable and versatile movement range. The hands of the Optimus Gen 2 have undergone a major overhaul, now featuring faster, 11-DoF brand-new hands with tactile sensing on all fingers. This upgrade enables the robot to manipulate delicate objects with greater precision and sensitivity. The video demo shows Optimus Gen 2 picking up an egg with one hand and moving it to the other hand, before being placed down.
The very end of the demo shows a pair of Optimus Gen 2 robots dancing. The previous update to Optimus was back in September, when we saw the robot being able to sort objects and more.
It’s going to be crazy to see more Optimus robots in action.
