Humanoid robot malfunctions and flails limbs near workers at Chinese factory
A Unitree H1 humanoid robot malfunctioned during testing at a Chinese factory, wildly swinging its arms and legs and forcing nearby workers to escape. The robot was suspended from a crane and reportedly lost control due to a software error.
What happened
During a routine capability test at an undisclosed factory in China, a Unitree H1 humanoid robot suspended from a crane suddenly lost control, wildly swinging its arms and legs.
The robot knocked over equipment, broke a computer, and forced two nearby workers to scramble out of its reach to avoid being struck. One worker managed to regain control by adjusting the robot's support structure.
Reported impact
Two workers were forced to avoid being struck by the robot's flailing limbs, though no injuries were reported.
Index analysis
Preliminary reports indicate that a coding or software error triggered the malfunction, causing the robot to move erratically and uncontrollably.
Classification
Sources and evidence
This record was researched and written by the Index, based on the following original reporting.