In a groundbreaking fusion of expertise and athletics, 21 humanoid robots participated alongside hundreds of human runners within the Yizhuang Half-Marathon in Beijing. (See video under.)
This occasion marked the primary time humanoid robots have competed in a 21-kilometer race with people, highlighting China’s ambitions in synthetic intelligence and robotics.
The standout performer among the many robots was Tiangong Extremely, developed by the Beijing Innovation Middle of Human Robotics. Tiangong Extremely accomplished the race in 2 hours and 40 minutes, considerably behind the lads’s human winner, who completed in 1 hour and a couple of minutes.
Tiangong’s efficiency was aided by its long-legged design and a classy working algorithm that mimics human gait. The robotic required solely three battery adjustments in the course of the race.
Whereas Tiangong Extremely accomplished the race, not all robots fared as effectively. Some stumbled at the beginning, with one collapsing moments after the beginning gun and remaining immobile for minutes earlier than resuming. One other veered off target, colliding with a barrier and taking its human handler down within the course of.
The robots, various in top from 1.2 to 1.8 meters, had been developed by Chinese language corporations reminiscent of DroidUP and Noetix Robotics. Some featured human-like appearances, with one firm boasting a robotic able to winking and smiling.
In the course of the race, robots ran on a separate observe from human individuals and had been accompanied by human trainers, a few of whom had to offer bodily help to maintain the machines upright.
Spectators expressed awe on the spectacle. “The robots are working very effectively, very secure. I really feel I’m witnessing the evolution of robots and AI,” stated He Sishu, a synthetic intelligence skilled observing the occasion.
Regardless of the spectacular show, some consultants questioned the sensible implications. Alan Fern, a professor of laptop science at Oregon State College, famous that whereas such occasions are visually putting, they show restricted real-world utility or intelligence.
He emphasised that the software program enabling humanoid robots to run was developed and demonstrated greater than 5 years in the past.
Organizers likened the occasion to a race automotive competitors as a result of excessive technical calls for and the need of human help groups. The long-term aim stays integrating humanoid robots into sensible environments like factories and houses.
Tang Jian, chief expertise officer for the Beijing Innovation Middle of Human Robotics, stated: “A spotlight going ahead for us might be industrial functions for humanoid robots.”
The occasion underscores China’s dedication to advancing its place within the world AI and robotics area, utilizing high-profile demonstrations to showcase progress and ambition.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=D7I0lj5QbZ4
