Watch an insanely dexterous robot perform precision tasks

The US Army has just taken possession of a very special robot. The HDMS 551s1 by robotics company Resquared is designed to perform precision tasks, controlled by a human operater. Its two arms are equipped with specially designed two-fingered grippers, and a human-like torso for further degrees of freedom.

Watching HDMS 551s1 perform tasks such as stacking blocks on little poles is impressive -- and demonstrates the sort of dexterity required for the army's purposes. The robot will be put to use in explosive ordnance disposal, which requires a high degree of precision. This will allow soldiers to dispose of explosives without putting their own lives at risk. It also has tank-like treads so it can get around.

Resquared specialises in explosive ordnance disposal arms, but it's also working on healthcare robots, too, including a robotic arm to assist disabled patients and robotic manipulator arms to aid in lifting patients to reduce the strain on nurses.