CASE STUDY THE HUMANOID ROBOT AT BMW GROUP In 2024, the BMW Group began testing a new type of humanoid robot called Figure 02 at its manufacturing plant in Spartanburg, South Carolina (USA). Developed by the California-based robotics company Figure, this robot represents an important step towards the future of human-robot collaboration in the automotive industry. Figure 02 robot is about 170 centimetres tall, weighs about 70 kilograms, and can carry loads up to 20 kilograms. It is designed to perform humanlike tasks within BMW s production lines, such as handling sheet metal parts and placing them into fixtures for further assembly. Its body includes two arms, two legs, and highly articulated hands, each with 16 degrees of freedom, allowing it to move and manipulate objects with precision similar to that of a human worker. The role and goals of humanoid robots One of Figure 02 s key features is its autonomous control system, powered by artificial intelligence. This enables the robot to learn tasks, adapt to its environment, and safely interact with humans on the factory floor. Cameras and sensors give it spatial awareness, helping it to detect obstacles and avoid collisions. The partnership between BMW and Figure aims to explore how humanoid robots can relieve workers from repetitive or ergonomically difficult jobs while maintaining efficiency and safety. Instead of replacing human employees, the goal is to support them, allowing people to focus on creative and complex tasks that require decision-making. With the Figure 02 project, BMW is taking a major step toward the next generation of smart, flexible manufacturing, where humans and humanoid robots work side by side to build the vehicles of the future. fixture: supporto to relieve: alleviare 17 Answer the questions. 1. When and where did BMW start testing the Figure 02 robot? 2. Who developed Figure 02 robot? 3. What kind of tasks is Figure 02 designed to perform? 4. What are some key physical features of Figure 02? 5. How does Figure 02 s control system work? 6. What is the main goal of the BMW and Figure partnership? 252 MECHANICS