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Former head of product safety sues Figure, alleging dismissal after raising robot safety concerns
Robert Gruendel, Figure's former head of product safety, sued in federal court alleging wrongful termination after warning executives that Figure's robots could fracture a human skull. Impact testing reportedly generated forces exceeding twice the threshold for skull fracture. Figure disputes the claims.
- Gruendel terminated September 2025, days after documented safety warnings to CEO and chief engineer.
- Internal impact testing on F.02 generated forces 2x those required to break adult skull, per complaint.
- Alleged safety incidents include robot strike that carved ¼-inch gash into steel refrigerator door.
- Suit filed during Series C fundraising; alleges safety plan was 'gutted' after Gruendel's termination.