France Begins Using Humanoid Robots in Nuclear Facilities

Artificial intelligence (AI) is also entering nuclear plants. France has introduced Hoxo, an AI-powered humanoid robot it will use in its nuclear facilities. Hoxo will undertake dangerous tasks.

The nuclear energy sector is one of the fields most in need of robotic solutions, due to both high safety standards and the necessity of protecting human health. However, until now, robots in this field consisted of remote-controlled systems with limited capabilities. But this situation is changing with simultaneous developments in artificial intelligence and robotics. Now, humanoid robots are also beginning to take on duties in these facilities. One of the most significant steps in this regard has come from France.

France, a leading country in nuclear energy, is preparing to use AI-supported humanoid robots in its nuclear facilities. The robot, named Hoxo and developed by Capgemini and Orano, aims to increase both safety and operational efficiency in nuclear plants by combining artificial intelligence, visual analysis, and autonomous navigation technologies.

Hoxo Can Analyze Its Environment in Real-Time

Introduced at the Orano Melox facility in France’s Gard region, Hoxo is an autonomous humanoid robot equipped with advanced sensors and a special artificial intelligence system. The robot’s primary goal is to reduce risks and execute technical tasks more safely by replacing human operators in areas with high radiation or dangerous chemicals. According to Capgemini, Hoxo can mimic human movements and dynamically adapt to challenging environments by perceiving its surroundings in real-time.

It is stated that Hoxo is currently in the testing phase at the Melox facility. These tests aim to measure the robot’s autonomous mobility, task adaptability, and decision-making capabilities. If successful, this will pave the way for Hoxo to be used in other nuclear facilities in France and similar hazardous industrial environments.

Projects similar to Hoxo are expected to emerge in other countries in the coming period. Naturally, this also brings significant questions and everyday concerns. This is because, with these projects, artificial intelligence will have entered nuclear facilities, which are in a critical position. This situation can also be seen as a disturbing development by those who are anxious about the trajectory of artificial intelligence.

⚛️ What is Nuclear Energy?

Nuclear energy is the energy stored in the nucleus (the core) of an atom. Atoms are the tiny particles that make up every object in the universe. This energy can be released through nuclear reactions in two main ways:

1. Nuclear Fission: This is the process currently used in nuclear power plants. It involves splitting a heavy, unstable atomic nucleus (like a uranium or plutonium atom) into two or more lighter nuclei. When this split occurs, it releases a very large amount of energy in the form of heat and radiation.
2. Nuclear Fusion: This is the process of combining two light atomic nuclei (like hydrogen) at extremely high temperatures and pressures to form a single, heavier nucleus (like helium). This reaction releases even more energy than fission and is the same process that powers the sun and other stars.

In a typical nuclear power plant, the heat generated from fission is used to boil water and create steam. This steam then spins large turbines, which drive generators to produce electricity.

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