Hey there! If you’re curious about the future of robotics, Figure AI has just made a big splash. They’ve launched BotQ, a cutting-edge facility in San Jose, California, that’s set to produce humanoid robots on a large scale. This plant is a major milestone, aiming to roll out up to 12,000 robots each year. It’s a significant step toward making humanoid robots a common sight in workplaces everywhere.
By taking charge of their manufacturing, Figure AI is ensuring their robots are top-notch in quality and functionality. Over the last year, they’ve developed a production system that’s both scalable and efficient. They’ve integrated advanced software like manufacturing execution systems (MES) and product lifecycle management (PLM) to lay a strong foundation for high-volume production. Plus, they’re planning to use their own humanoid robots in the manufacturing process, which is pretty exciting.
Figure AI is all about reliability and safety as they gear up for mass production. They’ve set up teams to rigorously test their robots’ durability under extreme conditions. This helps them tweak designs for better performance. It’s all about making sure the robots can handle whatever comes their way.
Since stepping out of stealth mode in 2023, Figure AI has made impressive strides. They delivered their Figure 02 system to a paying customer by late 2024 and even snagged an RBR50 award for innovation. These achievements highlight their dedication to advancing robotics.
Moving from prototypes to production-ready models, Figure AI has streamlined their processes to cut down on assembly time and reduce the number of parts. By using techniques like injection molding and metal stamping, they’ve slashed manufacturing time—some parts are now made in under 20 seconds!
Building a solid supply chain has been crucial, especially since there’s no established network for humanoid components. By designing almost everything in-house and forming strong vendor partnerships, Figure AI is ready to scale up production, with a goal of 100,000 robots in four years.
Automation is a key part of their strategy. They’re selectively automating processes to boost quality and speed, like automated grease-dispensing for motor gearboxes and quick testing of battery cells.
Looking ahead, Figure AI envisions a future where their humanoids help assemble other robots. This creates a hybrid workforce of AI and human oversight, maximizing efficiency. It’s a forward-thinking approach that speeds up production and reduces human involvement in repetitive tasks, ushering in a new era for humanoid robotics.
