Are robots the future? Experts discuss opportunities and risks!

Are robots the future? Experts discuss opportunities and risks!

Aachen, Deutschland - On April 7, 2025, an exciting interview series was published on RWTH Aachen under the title "Big Questions". In this series, Professor Heike Vallery and Professor Sebastian Trimpe answer central questions about the future of robotics and human-machine interaction. Vallery, who studied mechanical engineering at RWTH and today heads the Institute of Regulation Technology as Alexander Humboldt Professor, brings extensive experience in research to support human movements. Trimpe, professor for data science in mechanical engineering since 2020, has received her doctorate in the ETH Zurich and heads the RWTH Aachen.

In their conversation, the two researchers address the challenges of human acceptance of robots. They emphasize that personal interactions continue to be preferred. Vallery defines a robot as a system that acts in the physical world and uses sensors and drives. Trimpe adds that it is automated machines that carry out tasks through computer control. Both professors are also members of the newly founded Robotics Institute Germany (RIG), where research focuses such as computer vision, cognitive robotics and intelligent robotics are pursued in production.

research areas and future visions

As part of their research, the two scientists also explore the topic of learning -based robotics, in which robots are able to learn tasks independently. A central concern of Vallery is the development of robotic prostheses and solutions for motor rehabilitation, while Trimpe is increasingly dealing with the challenge that technological progress in robotics could create new jobs in the areas of maintenance and development. He sees the evolution of jobs as a possibility that will therefore progress gradually instead of that massive job losses have to be feared.

In the discussion about robotics, ethical questions are also discussed. The need for social discussions about borders and regulations in robotics is addressed by both researchers. The Uncanny Valley effect-the discomfort of human-like robots-also raises questions about social acceptance. Vallery points out that robots are particularly able to do precise positioning and repetitive tasks better than people, but have difficulties in regulation and balance.

ethical dilemma in human-machine interaction

Technological advances in robotics and artificial intelligence (AI) also bring considerable ethical questions. As of Technikzeit.com , the company must clarify in which ethical principles in the development and use of these technologies should be taken into account. Human-machine interactions are increasing more and more, which further emphasizes ethical responsibility.

The discussion about whether machines should make moral decisions or whether this is reserved for people is intensively managed. There are efforts to implement ethical guidelines to prevent abuse, but there is concern that such guidelines could hinder innovation. The balance between technical progress and ethical responsibility is considered crucial, especially in terms of data protection that is becoming more important in the era of intelligent machines.

Overall, the work of rwth-aachen.de AI offer many advantages, especially in areas such as care and education. At the same time, however, they ask the question of human empathy and the responsible use of the possibilities that these technologies provide. Therefore, the discourse on ethical questions in robotics remains essential to preserve control over these developments.

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