Video Friday: A Soft Robot Companion

Why iRobot’s founder won’t go within 10 feet of today’s walking robots

Rodney Brooks, a robotics pioneer and co-founder of iRobot, warns against standing within 9 feet of full-sized walking robots due to safety concerns. In his essay, he explains that current bipedal humanoids are unsafe for humans to be near when walking, as they generate significant kinetic energy that can cause harm if they fall or strike someone. Brooks believes that until safer versions of walking robots are developed, humanoid robots will not be certified for deployment in areas with people. He criticizes the billions being invested in humanoid development, calling it an expensive fantasy.

Why the World Needs a Flying Robot Baby

The article discusses the potential of the iRonCub3, a flying robot baby, as a future disaster-response robot. The iRonCub3's design is inspired by the 2004 iCub platform developed at the Italian Institute of Technology (IIT). With its humanoid features and flying capabilities, the iRonCub3 could offer unique advantages in navigating disaster zones and providing assistance. The robot's development represents a step forward in robotics technology, particularly in the realm of humanoid robots.

Video Friday: A Billion Dollars for Humanoid Robots

The article discusses the significant funding of over $1 billion for humanoid robots and explores the possibilities of what kind of humanoid robot can be developed with this funding. The focus is on the potential advancements and innovations in robotics that could result from such a substantial investment. The article is part of a series called "Video Friday" that showcases exciting robot videos. The author, Evan Ackerman, is the robotics editor at IEEE Spectrum.

Video Friday: SCUTTLE