Humanoid Robots Join Half-Marathon Race
In a groundbreaking event, twenty-one humanoid robots competed alongside thousands of runners in the Yizhuang half-marathon in Beijing. This marked the first time these machines have taken on a 21-kilometer race with human participants, showcasing advances in robotics and artificial intelligence.
The robots, produced by various Chinese manufacturers, varied greatly in size and appearance. Some stood under 120 centimeters tall, while others reached nearly 1.8 meters. One robot even featured nearly human-like feminine characteristics, complete with the ability to wink and smile, impressing onlookers.
Preparation and Performance of Humanoid Robots
Several companies dedicated weeks to testing their robots before the race. Local officials likened the event to a motorsport competition due to the involvement of engineering and navigation teams supporting the robots throughout the course.
“The robots are running very well, very stable … I feel I’m witnessing the evolution of robots and AI,” said a spectator working in artificial intelligence.
During the race, human trainers accompanied the robots, occasionally providing physical support to keep them upright. Some machines wore running shoes, while others sported accessories like boxing gloves or headbands emblazoned with motivational slogans.
Race Outcomes and Technological Insights
The winning robot, Tiangong Ultra, completed the half-marathon in 2 hours and 40 minutes. In comparison, the fastest male human runner finished in just over an hour. The robot’s success was attributed to its long legs and an advanced running algorithm that mimics human marathon techniques.
The robotics center behind Tiangong Ultra is partly owned by state enterprises and major technology firms. Their chief technology officer emphasized that their robot’s performance involved only three battery changes during the race, highlighting efficiency.
Challenges Faced by Some Robots
Not all humanoid robots fared as well. Several struggled from the start, with one falling at the starting line and lying flat before recovering. Another collided with a railing shortly after the race began, causing its human operator to stumble.
While humanoid robots have participated in marathons in China before, this event was unique in featuring them running directly alongside human athletes on a 21-kilometer course.
Future of Humanoid Robots in Industry
China aims to boost economic growth through investments in cutting-edge industries like robotics. However, some experts remain cautious, questioning whether such races truly reflect robots’ industrial capabilities.
One robotics professor noted that while these robots demonstrate walking, running, and dancing skills, these feats mostly serve as impressive displays rather than indicators of practical intelligence or work utility.
The robotics center’s CTO highlighted their future focus: “A focus going forward for us will be industrial applications for humanoid robots so they can truly enter factories, business scenarios, and finally households.”
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