Boston Dynamics has just revealed the design philosophy behind its latest generation of humanoid robots, featuring a strategic shift: abandoning the mimicry of human biology. Instead of using linear actuators that resemble muscles, the company has completely transitioned to rotary actuators.
Developments
In recent announcements, Boston Dynamics' engineering team explained that closely adhering to the human musculoskeletal structure imposes certain limitations on performance and durability. Using rotary actuators allows the robot to achieve a wider range of motion and makes maintenance easier.
Why this matters
This is evidence that the robotics industry is moving toward a phase of "functional optimization" rather than merely "mimicking form." For robotics engineers in Vietnam, this trend suggests a new direction: prioritizing mechanical solutions optimized for AI control over mechanical bio-mimicry.