iRobot Co-Founder Warns: Stay 10 Feet Away from Walking Robots to Avoid Unintended Consequences

RODNEY BROOKS WARNS AGAINST CLOSE PROXIMITY TO HUMANOID ROBOTS In a recent technical essay, Rodney Brooks, MIT professor emeritus and co-founder of iRobot and Rethink Robotics, cautioned against standing too close to full-size walking robots. According to Brooks, people should maintain a distance of at least 9 feet (3 meters) from these machines due to safety concerns. Brooks' warning stems from his assessment that today's humanoid robots are fundamentally unsafe for humans to be near when they walk. He argues that the massive kinetic energy generated by bipedal humanoids while maintaining balance poses a significant risk to people in their vicinity. "My advice to people is to not come closer than 3 meters to a full-size walking robot," Brooks wrote in his essay, titled "Why Todays Humanoids Wont Learn Dexterity." Brooks' concerns are rooted in the fundamental design of bipedal humanoids, which rely on complex algorithms and sensor systems to maintain balance. However, these systems can fail or malfunction, leading to unpredictable behavior. "Until someone comes up with a better version of a two-legged walking robot that is much safer to be near, and even in contact with, we will not see humanoid robots get certified to be deployed in zones that also have people in them," Brooks emphasized. The development of humanoid robots has been a long-standing goal for robotics researchers and companies. However, Brooks believes that the pursuit of this technology is misguided, given its current limitations and safety risks. "Companies are pouring billions into humanoid development, but they're chasing an expensive fantasy," he said. Brooks' views have sparked debate within the robotics community, with some experts arguing that his concerns are overstated or that solutions can be found through continued research and innovation. However, others acknowledge the validity of Brooks' warnings and emphasize the need for greater caution when developing and deploying humanoid robots. The implications of Brooks' warning extend beyond the robotics industry to broader societal concerns about safety and accountability. As humanoid robots become increasingly integrated into various industries, including healthcare, manufacturing, and transportation, the need for robust safety protocols and regulations becomes more pressing. In response to Brooks' essay, some companies are reevaluating their approach to humanoid development. For instance, Boston Dynamics, a leading robotics company, has stated that it is taking steps to address safety concerns related to its humanoid robots. However, the pace of progress in this area remains uncertain, and experts caution that significant technical hurdles must be overcome before humanoid robots can be safely deployed in public spaces. As the development of humanoid robots continues, Brooks' warning serves as a reminder of the importance of prioritizing safety and accountability in robotics research and innovation. *Reporting by Arstechnica.*