Pew Research reports that a majority of us would not be willing to wear a robot exoskeleton for work. Just one third of us think that robot exoskeletons would be a good idea.
Twice as many men are down with the idea as women, though. Using an exoskeleton for manual labor is more acceptable to men than to women, and it’s also more acceptable to people who have thought about it or heard about it before.
Those who were encountering the idea for the first time were much more likely to reject it as a dangerous example of meddling with nature.
Exoskeletons
Exoskeletons are wearable devices that enhance the physical capacity of human beings. They were initially developed for the military in the 1960s, but are now most popular in construction and other jobs requiring physical labor.
People in the Pew Research study saw both positive and negative possible outcomes from the use of exoskeletons. On the one hand, most believed that the use of exoskeletons would reduce workplace injuries. They also felt that more people would be able to do tough physical labor if they had help from exoskeletons.
On the other hand, some respondents worried that human beings would lose strength if they relied on robotic exoskeletons to do their physical work. They also thought employers might need fewer human workers if they could rely on robots, even in the form of exoskeletons. 81% foresaw this problem.
Indramat drive and control systems
Whether you’re ready for exoskeletons or not, you can count on us for support and service of your Indramat drive and control systems.
We provide factory repair and reman, as well as emergency replacement parts so your facility can be up and running fast.