Humanoid Robot Toasts Marshmallows, Dances in New Video

MagicLab, a humanoid robot startup that launched last year, has released a video update of its robot MagicBot roasting marshmallows, performing magic tricks and dancing.

The video is intended to demonstrate the robot’s dexterity and object manipulation capabilities, offering a “glimpse into the future of robot-assisted intelligent living for mankind.”

“The video highlights the unparalleled performance of MagicBot in small object manipulation and by extension, its versatility across a rich variety of everyday scenarios with human-like dexterity and smoothness,” according to a company statement.

To create the highly dexterous hand, the team used a combination of miniature high-torque servo actuators and sensitive multi-dimensional pressure sensors.

“The six miniaturized servo actuators allow for various object manipulations, providing users with an intuitive and rapid handling experience,” the team said. “Boasting sub-millimeter positioning accuracy and a load capacity of several kilograms, the hand can grasp objects of different shapes, sizes, weights and substance, including fragile, slippery or deformable items.”

The hand can replicate around 70% of all human hand gestures, with potential applications in specialized, industrial and service applications, ranging from hazardous material handling to public service and domestic operations, according to the team. 

Related:Humanoid Robot Startup Debuts Electric, Somersaulting Robot

MagicLab unveiled its humanoid design in January, pitched as a rival to Boston Dynamics’ acrobatic Atlas robot in its balance and dexterity, demonstrated by its ability to somersault.

"Our new joint motor design … enables the robot to maintain its stability while flipping its body in the air," MagicLab said in a statement. “[These] aerial maneuvers or jumping twists are no longer restricted to only hydraulic robots like Atlas.”