Hardware Podcasts

Robots Need Physical, Not Just Artificial, Intelligence

EE Times Current · 3 Jan 2025 · 48m

What this episode covers

Emeritus Prof. Rodney Brooks, CTO of Robust AI and founder of iRobot and Rethink Robotics, discusses the necessity of physical intelligence in robotics, arguing that reactive systems and force control are superior to pure position control or simulation. He critiques the current hype around humanoid robots and large language models, emphasizing that successful products like the Roomba and Baxter industrial robot relied on pragmatic engineering and series elastic actuators rather than complex AI. The episode concludes with a discussion on the societal implications of automation and the enduring value of fundamental hardware principles.

Most relevant to

established companies

Topics

Mentioned

Companies
Robust AI, iRobot, Rethink Robotics, Boston Dynamics
Products
Roomba, Baxter, Cog, Big Dog, Stanford Arm

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