People want robots in warehouses and factories, not hospitals or schools, Hexagon study finds
A recent global study by Hexagon reveals significant attitudes toward robots among adults, highlighting a clear preference for their use in specific tasks. While 68% of respondents favor robots for heavy lifting, only 12% are comfortable with robots taking on caregiving roles. The study, which surveyed adults worldwide, indicates that acceptance of robotic assistance is conditional; for instance, 52% of participants support robots for monitoring hazards, and half would welcome them for cleaning shared spaces or information retrieval. However, a substantial 86% emphasize the necessity of establishing clear guidelines regarding the capabilities and limitations of robots. Interestingly, the research also points to a generational shift in attitudes, with children showing a greater openness to robotic integration in various settings. They are 50% more likely than adults to view robots as "full colleagues" in the workplace, suggesting a growing acceptance of technology in everyday life. This evolving perspective on robotics underscores the importance of addressing concerns and establishing frameworks to facilitate their integration into society.
Robotics needs a service framework.
RSF defines a common language for robot service capability, lifecycle operations, certification pathways, and service-provider networks.
HERL (Human Engineering Research Lab)
United States
Joint University of Pittsburgh and US Department of Veterans Affairs laboratory conducting rehabilitation engineering research. Develops mobility devices, assistive technologies, and medical-grade products for people with disabilities.
Joanneum Research Assoc (AT)
Austria
Joanneum Research Institute for Robotics and Flexible Production conducts applied R&D in industrial robot systems, production automation and robot safety, offering feasibility analysis, consulting and testing in a robotics solution centre.
St Petersburg National Research U of ITMO
Russian leading research university (ITMO University) specializing in information technology, optical engineering, and photonics. Active research programs in AI, robotics, computer vision, and cyber-physical systems.
Langebaek Logistics A/S
Denmark
Scandinavian consultancy specializing in supply chain management, logistics optimization, and warehousing. Advises clients at strategic and operational levels, integrating automation and AI into logistics workflows.
Qubiqa (prev Univeyor Logistics) (DK)
Denmark
Qubiqa is a Danish supplier of intelligent material handling and logistics systems, providing turnkey intralogistics solutions including conveyor systems and palletizing equipment, specializing in the insulation manufacturing sector.
Scallog Scalable Logistics (FR)
French developer of goods-to-person robotic order picking systems for logistics warehouses. Robots integrate with existing WMS/ERP platforms; claimed ROI under two years with documented productivity gains above 40% in order picking operations.
ASRock Industrial Computer Corporation
Taiwan
ASRock Industrial, a global leader in edge computers and industrial motherboards, delivers high-performance industrial computers, motherboards, and mini PCs. Subscribe for the Latest Automate Show Updates Copyright © 2013-2026 A3 Automate.
B&R Industrial Automation
Austria
At the center of B&R’s approach is a unified automation architecture that combines powerful control, flexible I/O, intuitive HMI, motion, and integrated safety in one cohesive environment. The company gives system integrators, OEMs, and project-driven organizations the performance, openness, and.
Herr Industrial, Inc
United States
US provider of industrial paint finishing systems, air pollution control, material handling, and control systems since 1971. Delivers turnkey automation solutions for metal, plastic, and wood finishing with installation and maintenance services.
Patten Studio
United States
Patten Studio is an interactive design studio based at MIT Media Lab roots, creating technology-driven art installations and experiential environments for brands and public spaces. Work involves sensing, embedded computing, and responsive physical interfaces, with peripheral relevance to human-machine interaction.
Shenzhen Macrotellect Technology (CN)
Macrotellect develops BrainLink EEG headsets and brainwave sensing devices for consumer and research applications. The company focuses on brain-computer interface technology enabling non-invasive neural signal acquisition and human-machine interaction.
Soul Machines
New Zealand AI company (now in receivership as of February 2026) that developed lifelike digital human avatars powered by large language models for customer service and enterprise deployment. Created Digital Workers and Workforce Connect platforms.
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