Agility's New Humanoid Robot Kneels Down to Avoid Hurting People
Future Technology
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HARDWARE
Agility's New Humanoid Robot Kneels Down to Avoid Hurting People
Agility Robotics has introduced a significant update to its Digit humanoid robot: when it detects that a collision with a human coworker is imminent and unavoidable, the robot will stop moving and squat down to lower its centre of gravity and reduce the risk of injury. It sounds like a small thing. It is actually a thoughtful piece of engineering that reflects how seriously the industry is starting to take the question of what happens when robots and humans share the same physical space.
Key Takeaways
- Agility's Digit robot will stop moving and squat down when it detects an imminent collision with a human coworker, reducing impact risk
- Digit is already deployed in commercial warehouse trials including with Amazon for tote handling and bin transfers
- Traditional industrial robots are kept behind cages; humanoids must operate safely in human environments without physical barriers
- No comprehensive regulatory standards for humanoid robots in workplaces yet exist from OSHA or equivalent European bodies
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