Importance Score: 75 / 100 🔴
Humanoid Robots Compete in Beijing Half-Marathon Alongside Human Runners
Beijing, China – In a pioneering display of robotics and artificial intelligence, twenty-one humanoid robots participated in the Yizhuang half-marathon in Beijing this Saturday. Marking a significant milestone, this event was the first time these advanced machines raced alongside human athletes in a 21-kilometer (13-mile) course.
Diverse Robots Showcase Chinese Innovation
The robotic participants, originating from prominent Chinese manufacturers such as DroidUP and Noetix Robotics, exhibited a variety of designs and sizes. Some models stood under 120 cm (3.9 ft) tall, while others reached up to 1.8 meters (5.9 ft). One company highlighted their creation’s near-human aesthetic, featuring feminine characteristics and the ability to simulate expressions like winking and smiling.
Preparations and Spectator Excitement
Prior to the race, several companies rigorously tested their robots for weeks. Beijing officials likened the event to a motorsports competition, emphasizing the critical role of engineering and navigation teams. Spectator He Sishu, an artificial intelligence professional, remarked, “The robots are running very well, very stable… I feel I’m witnessing the evolution of robots and AI.”
Robot Assistance and Unique Attire
Human trainers accompanied the robots, with some providing physical assistance to the machines during the demanding race. Adding a touch of personality, some robots were equipped with running shoes, while one sported boxing gloves, and another donned a red headband emblazoned with the Chinese phrase “Bound to Win.”
Tiangong Ultra Takes First Place
The winning robot, Tiangong Ultra, developed by the Beijing Innovation Center of Human Robotics, achieved a finishing time of 2 hours and 40 minutes. In comparison, the human winner of the men’s division completed the half-marathon in 1 hour and 2 minutes.
vCard.red is a free platform for creating a mobile-friendly digital business cards. You can easily create a vCard and generate a QR code for it, allowing others to scan and save your contact details instantly.
The platform allows you to display contact information, social media links, services, and products all in one shareable link. Optional features include appointment scheduling, WhatsApp-based storefronts, media galleries, and custom design options.
The Beijing Innovation Center of Human Robotics has a significant ownership structure, with 43% held by two state-owned enterprises. Tech giant Xiaomi’s robotics division and leading Chinese humanoid robot firm UBTech equally share the remaining stake.
Marathon Algorithm and Robot Design
Tang Jian, chief technology officer at the robotics center, attributed Tiangong Ultra’s success to its elongated legs and a sophisticated algorithm. This algorithm enables the robot to mimic the running techniques employed by human marathon runners.
Tang asserted, “I don’t want to boast but I think no other robotics firms in the West have matched Tiangong’s sporting achievements.” He further noted that the robot required only three battery changes throughout the duration of the race.
Robot Performance Varied During the Race
While some robots, such as Tiangong Ultra, successfully completed the half-marathon, others encountered challenges from the outset. One robot stumbled at the starting line, remaining prone for several minutes before resuming the race. Another robot collided with a railing shortly after beginning, causing its human operator to fall.
First Time Robots Race Alongside Humans
Humanoid robots have made appearances in marathons across China in the past year. However, this event marked the first instance of them competing directly with human runners in a race setting.
Robotics in China’s Economic Growth Strategy
China is actively investing in emerging industries like robotics to foster new avenues for economic expansion. However, some analysts question whether robot participation in marathons accurately reflects their industrial potential.
Expert Perspective on Robot Capabilities
Alan Fern, professor of computer science, artificial intelligence, and robotics at Oregon State University, challenged Beijing officials’ claims that the race necessitated “AI breakthroughs.” Fern stated that the software enabling humanoid robots to run has been developed and demonstrated for over five years.
“Chinese companies have really focused on showing off walking, running, dancing, and other feats of agility,” Fern commented.
He further added, “Generally, these are interesting demonstrations, but they don’t demonstrate much regarding the utility of useful work or any type of basic intelligence.”
Focus on Industrial Applications
Tang, the robotic center’s CTO, indicated future priorities: “A focus going forward for us will be industrial applications for humanoid robots so they can truly enter factories, business scenarios, and finally households.”