Robot builder and enthusiast Liphardt has been receiving varied reactions from the public when he displays his “dog” robot. While children are excited and parents are creeped out, baby boomers tend to ignore it. This illustrates the mixed feelings people have towards robots and automation.
Despite the excitement from some about a future where robots can handle tasks currently done by humans, there are also concerns about potential job losses and safety issues. Many people, however, seem unimpressed due to past promises about the transformative power of robots that have not materialized.
However, recent developments in the field of robotics, particularly in humanoid robots, are piquing the interest of even those who have been bored with the topic. Companies like Figure AI and Tesla are developing humanoid robots that promise to revolutionize industries such as manufacturing and logistics.
One company, Agility Robotics, has successfully deployed humanoid robots to assist with tasks like unloading pallets and moving boxes in warehouses. While there are still technical challenges to overcome, such as battery life and charging logistics, the potential for humanoids to replace physical labor in the future is gaining momentum.
Despite this progress, experts like CTO Melonee Wise remain cautious about the widespread adoption of humanoids in workplaces, citing the complex environment of warehouses with people and machinery as a significant challenge. Only time will tell if humanoids will indeed become a common sight in industries in the near future.
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