Researchers Enhance Humanoid Robots’ Physical Intelligence Safely

Researchers at Iowa State University are pioneering advancements in humanoid robots’ physical intelligence, focusing on safe interactions between machines and humans. Led by Bowen Weng, an assistant professor of computer science, the team is exploring how to enhance robots’ capabilities while prioritizing safety standards.

The Importance of Physical Intelligence

Physical intelligence, a term that refers to our balance, coordination, and motor skills, is something humans develop naturally from a young age. According to Weng, “As humans, we often take our physical intelligence for granted because it becomes so automatic when we’re still young.” This automaticity allows us to navigate our environments with ease, performing complex tasks without conscious effort. In stark contrast, humanoid robots face significant challenges in mastering similar skills.

Weng highlights that despite advancements in artificial intelligence, “the physical design and adaptability of robot bodies are still significant barriers to real-world performance.” Robots struggle to adapt to unpredictable environments and integrate sensory feedback in real time, making the replication of human-like physical intelligence a daunting task.

Collaboration Over Competition

Humanoid robots, designed to resemble human forms, serve various purposes, from assisting with daily tasks to conducting research in hazardous environments. Weng emphasizes that the goal is not to replace humans but to enhance collaboration. “Humanoid robots need humans because they rely on us for design, training, supervision, ethical guidance, and emotional context,” he stated. This collaboration opens up new opportunities in AI oversight, ethics, and design, creating a path for future job growth.

Inside the robotics lab at Iowa State University, the team works with two advanced legged humanoid robots and a quadruped robot. These machines are being trained to perform tasks such as standing, sitting, and navigating their environment. Doctoral student Zaid Mahboob expressed his motivation to improve the efficiency of these robots, stating, “Things that humans are able to do easily, a humanoid robot is not able to do that.”

Weng’s team is committed to enhancing the speed, precision, and safety of humanoid robots, ensuring they can work alongside humans effectively. They are developing algorithms to improve testing frameworks for robots, as outlined in Weng’s recent paper, “Repeatable and Reliable Efforts of Accelerated Risk Assessment in Robot Testing,” presented at the 2025 IEEE International Conference on Robotics and Automation. This study proposes a new algorithm that reliably assesses a robot’s risk of instability due to disturbances.

Prioritizing Safety in Robot Development

Despite the excitement surrounding robotic advancements, Weng stresses that responsible development is crucial. “There isn’t nearly enough effort being put into responsibly and safely achieving these developments,” he remarked. His research aims to enhance testing algorithms, contributing indirectly to safer robotic capabilities.

Another collaborative study, co-authored with researchers from University of Massachusetts at Lowell and Purdue University, evaluated the stability and performance of commercial quadruped robots. The findings indicated that while quadruped robots show promise, challenges remain in maintaining accurate body positioning during aggressive movements. The results were published in the International Journal of Intelligent Robotics and Applications.

Weng believes that improving the reliability and effectiveness of legged robotic systems is essential for their practical applications, including search-and-rescue missions and healthcare assistance. “Transparency is vital for fostering public trust, enhancing safety, and helping us have meaningful discussions around the practical deployment and responsible use of robots,” he stated.

Future Prospects and Student Involvement

Students at Iowa State University are actively engaged in hands-on research, which is a major draw for many. Doctoral student Yuija Chen noted that working with real robots offers invaluable experience compared to labs focused solely on simulations. Another student, Dylan Khor, expressed enthusiasm for Weng’s teaching style, which has inspired him to pursue research in robotics.

Weng’s commitment to student mentorship and the development of standardized safety measures is evident. With plans for a new robotics education lab in Durham Hall, equipped with robotic arms for research and teaching, the opportunities for students are set to expand significantly. This lab is expected to be operational within the current academic year.

Despite the hurdles humanoid robots face, including high development costs and ethical concerns, Weng remains optimistic about their future. He insists that ongoing research to enhance robot safety and efficacy is essential. “The bottom line is, you have to be able to trust it,” he concluded, emphasizing that proving the trustworthiness of humanoid robots relies on human-led research.