Responsible use of exoskeletons and exosuits: Ensuring domestic security in a European context

• Main Author: Burton Saheli Datta
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Published: De Gruyter 2020-08-01
• Series: Paladyn: Journal of Behavioral Robotics
• Subjects: european security; misuse; rri; domestic law and order; autonomous exoskeleton; autonomous exosuit; accessory to firearm; firearm directive
• Online Access: https://doi.org/10.1515/pjbr-2020-0015

This article aims to focus attention on the threat to domestic law and order posed by the misuse of wearable robotic exoskeletons and exosuits intended for beneficial uses such as rehabilitative care and industrial production. Threats to domestic law and order from the misuse of exoskeletons by rogue users range from creating havoc in public spaces, violent crime and endangerment of civilian(s) to enhanced burglary techniques. Drawing on existing legal-institutional frameworks and law enforcement apparatus, this article conceptualises a general framework for the responsible end use of exoskeletons and exosuits. It calls for proactive inward-looking state strategies to manage the bads of exoskeleton and exosuit acquisition, possession and trade while encouraging good uses. Importantly, this article does not suggest that the legal-institutional mechanisms discussed for managing misuse are the only ones relevant to the issue except as a guide for encouraging further discussion in the area.