Safety Concerns Rise Over Humanoid Robots After Lawsuit and Stunt Incident

Lawsuit Against Figure AI

Former safety engineer Robert Gruendel has brought a lawsuit against robotics company Figure AI, asserting that the company’s Figure 02 humanoid robot was demonstrated to possess enough strength to fracture a human skull. Gruendel contends that his termination followed his attempts to raise safety concerns about the robot’s capabilities. In response, a Figure AI spokesperson denied the allegations, stating that the engineer was dismissed due to poor performance rather than any whistleblowing activity. The dispute underscores the tension between rapid advancements in humanoid robotics and the need for rigorous safety oversight.

Engine AI Stunt Incident

In a separate episode, the chief executive of Chinese robotics firm Engine AI participated in a staged demonstration involving the company’s T800 humanoid robot. During the stunt, the CEO was knocked to the ground by the robot, though he wore protective padding in preparation for the encounter. Observers noted that the footage did not clearly reveal the exact force generated by the robot, leaving questions about its true strength and potential hazards unanswered. The incident has sparked discussion about the transparency of performance metrics for humanoid robots.

Broader Implications for the Robotics Industry

These two high‑profile events—one a legal challenge and the other a public demonstration—have intensified calls for clearer communication from robot manufacturers about the capabilities and safety limits of their machines. Stakeholders argue that better disclosure of torque, carrying capacity, and impact force is essential to assess risks to human operators and bystanders. As humanoid robots become more integrated into various sectors, the balance between innovation and safety remains a critical focal point for regulators, companies, and the public.