The Safety Concerns Surrounding Humanoid Robots
In his recent reflections, renowned robotics expert Rodney Brooks shares a cautionary tale from years past when he found himself “way too close” to an Agility Robotics Digit humanoid. The robot fell unexpectedly, leading Brooks to avoid close proximity to walking humanoids ever since. His unease highlights an essential issue in the realm of robotics safety, especially given that promotional videos featuring humanoid robots rarely showcase humans nearby unless physically separated by furniture. Even in these scenarios, the humanoids are often depicted with minimal movement, raising questions about their operational safety.
The Certification Challenges
This predicament is not limited to accidental falls. For humanoid robots to become integral in health care and factory environments, achieving certification to operate within zones shared with humans is paramount. Unfortunately, the existing walking mechanisms employed by current humanoids make this certification nearly impossible under the prevailing safety standards across most regions. This presents a significant barrier to realizing the potential benefits of these machines.
The humanoid Apollo robot.
Credit: Google
A Changing Definition of Humanoids
Looking towards the future, Brooks predicts that within the next 15 years, the landscape of humanoid robots will shift dramatically. He envisions these machines performing various tasks but notes ironically that they may not resemble today’s bipedal robots. Instead, they may feature wheels instead of feet, a differing number of arms, and an array of specialized sensors that diverge from human likenesses. Cameras may be incorporated into their hands or positioned in their midsections, reflecting a redefined concept of what it means to be a “humanoid.” This evolution mirrors the shifting definitions of terms like “flying cars,” which now often refer to electric helicopters rather than traditional road-ready vehicles.
The Future of Robotics Investment
Brooks also highlights a concerning trend in investments directed towards the development of today’s rigid, vision-centric humanoids. He argues that billions are being funneled into these systems, yet much of this funding may dwindle as alternative approaches gain traction. Significant progress is occurring in academic circles, where innovative methods, such as MIT’s use of gloves transmitting tactile sensations between human operators and robotic hands, are being explored. Nevertheless, these advancements still fall short of achieving the nuanced touch sensation required for human-level dexterity.
Brooks’ 3-Meter Rule as a Cautionary Tale
Today, it remains uncommon for individuals to spend significant time near humanoid robots. Brooks’ “3-meter rule” serves as a practical warning of the challenges looming ahead, informed by years of experience in robotics. The existing gap between the slick promotional materials and the tangible, deployable reality is far-reaching, defined not just in years but in fundamental issues related to physics, sensing capabilities, and safety protocols.
To learn more about Rodney Brooks’ insights and the future of humanoid robots, click Here.
Image Credit: arstechnica.com
