Game changer or misguided? Fraunhofer study comes to a sobering conclusion about humanoid robots in the industry

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Fraunhofer IPA

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Humanoid robots could increasingly be used in the industry in the future, but their actual potential is still unclear. A study by Fraunhofer IPA shows which obstacles still need to be overcome.

Although humanoid robots are increasingly attracting media attention, their actual use in the industry remains rare. The Fraunhofer Institute for Manufacturing Engineering and Automation IPA has now investigated in a study where these human-like machines can truly offer added value. Material transport, machine loading, and grasping complex objects prove to be particularly promising application fields.

The particular strength of humanoid robots lies in their flexibility. Above all, the combination of mobility and variable gripping technology enables the automation of tasks in existing facilities with comparatively low integration effort, explains Werner Kraus, head of the research field Automation and Robotics at IPA. Currently, the robots are mainly suitable for simple handling tasks where precision and speed are less critical.

Safety as a critical factor

Functional safety remains a central challenge. The human-like structure poses special requirements for stability and system integrity. Direct collaboration between humans and robots is currently still problematic. The study therefore emphasizes the necessity to develop advanced safety features and to establish long-term technical standards similar to ISO TS 15066 for human-robot collaboration.

Legal uncertainties also hinder the spread. The study authors therefore recommend creating practical evaluation opportunities for companies to ensure legal certainty.

Cost-effectiveness must be found

In addition to technical and legal aspects, economic viability ultimately decides success. Half of the companies surveyed would be willing to invest up to 100,000 euros—a considerable sum, especially for small and medium-sized enterprises. "In my view, successful use of humanoids will require not only use cases that are technically feasible but also business cases that are economically interesting," emphasizes Simon Schmidt, head of the business unit at Fraunhofer IPA and co-author of the study. The research team therefore recommends targeted support of critical technologies, particularly through special funding programs for start-ups.

The study's author team derives the following recommendations for action from their findings:

1. Development of software safety functions and features

2. Development and optimization of precise handling and sensitivity of end effectors

3. Simple programming and optimization of humanoid robots for their use

4. Technologies for environmental perception and appropriate response

5. Creation of a standard/technical specification comparable to that for human-robot collaboration (ISO TS 15066)

6. Create legal evaluation opportunities for companies

7. Promotion of critical and differentiating technologies, especially growth financing for start-ups.

Most respondents expect a realistic practical application only in the next three to ten years. This time span could determine whether humanoid robots become an industrial standard or remain a niche phenomenon. (mc)