Electric humanoid robot Boston Dynamics Atlas dressed as Santa Claus performed a backflip for the first time

This spring, Boston Dynamics abandoned the use of hydraulics in the design of humanoid robots and switched to an all-electric drive. In this regard, the robot had to be re-taught all the tricks, taking into account the weakening of the drive and other changes in dynamics. The transition to the new platform appears to have been successful. On Christmas Eve, the company released a postcard video showing an electric Atlas dressed as Santa for the first time performing a backflip.

Image Source: Boston Dynamics

Humanoid robots from Boston Dynamics have previously demonstrated this gymnastic feat. In the past, hydraulically driven Atlas robots have done this. Without hydraulics – only on electric drives – the world’s first backflip was performed by the Chinese anthropomorphic robot Unitree H1. Six months later, the electric Atlas also demonstrated a backflip, making it, in our opinion, more elegant and, one might even say, flawless. Even Santa’s hat didn’t come off, although it was probably well secured.

The ability to do a backflip is not the most sought-after quality for a humanoid robot. However, it is a good illustration of the robot’s ability to concentrate and coordinate movements, which is a useful skill for being around people or working in a manufacturing environment. Either way, Boston Dynamics is making impressive progress in developing an all-electric humanoid robot.