Boston Dynamics Mechanical Design Engineer Chastity Discusses Atlas Robot Foot Design and Her Path into the Field

In an interview, Boston Dynamics mechanical design engineer Chastity Kelly explains the foot design of the Atlas humanoid robot. The new-generation foot has a symmetric structure, with the ankle joint located at the middle of the foot; combined with knees that can bend backward, this allows Atlas to walk forward and backward without turning around. The sole has multi-directional treads to provide two-way grip and prevent slipping on factory floors. She also shares her own journey: starting at a community college, she spent 15 years earning a PhD in mechanical engineering and entering the robotics industry.