A lawsuit against robotics firm Figure AI alleges that its Figure 02 humanoid robot demonstrated enough strength to fracture a human skull, prompting concerns over safety standards. Meanwhile, a demonstration by Chinese firm Engine AI showed its T800 robot knocking down its CEO, highlighting uncertainties about these machines' capabilities. These incidents underscore the need for clearer information on humanoid robot risks.
Recent developments in the field of AI-powered humanoid robots have spotlighted potential safety issues, driven by a lawsuit and a dramatic demonstration.
Figure AI, a US-based robotics company, is embroiled in legal action from its former safety engineer, Robert Gruendel. The suit claims that tests revealed the company's Figure 02 model possessed sufficient force to "fracture a human skull." Gruendel alleges he was terminated after voicing these worries. In response, a Figure spokesperson told CNBC that the claims are unfounded and that Gruendel was dismissed due to "poor performance." Efforts to contact Figure and Gruendel's legal representatives have not yielded further comments.
On the other side of the world, Engine AI, a Chinese robotics outfit, shared a video where its T800 robot—named after the Terminator series antagonist—pushed its CEO to the ground. The executive was equipped with protective padding and had anticipated the action, but the footage leaves ambiguity regarding the robot's precise power. Experts note that metrics like maximum torque or load-bearing capacity do not easily equate to the impact force on a human or potential harm.
Together, these events from Figure AI and Engine AI are fueling debates on transparency. Developers of humanoid robots may need to disclose more detailed data on their creations' strengths to adequately assess and mitigate associated dangers. Such disclosures could help establish robust safety protocols as the technology advances.
While the full implications remain unclear, these stories emphasize the challenges in evaluating AI robot capabilities beyond promotional displays.
