China’s first heterogeneous humanoid robot training centre set to open soon

China's first training centre dedicated to heterogeneous humanoid robots is poised to open its doors in July. 

Located in the Zhangjiang area of Shanghai, the National and Local Co-built Humanoid Robotics Innovation Centre spans over 5,000 square metres and is designed to foster large-scale data sharing among robot developers. This new initiative aims to advance humanoid robotics by providing critical data for industries such as manufacturing, services, healthcare, and agriculture, according to a science and technology news website covering the latest advancements and breakthroughs.

More than 100 different robot models from over a dozen companies are currently being trained at the centre. The goal is to create a comprehensive database that can be shared across various sectors, enhancing the development of humanoid robots. Xu Bin, the centre's general manager, emphasized that the facility is designed to address key challenges in humanoid robotics, such as creating compatible technologies and ecosystems that can solve real-world application problems.

The centre will focus on training robots in 45 basic skills during its first phase. These tasks include basic functions such as grasping, picking, placing, and transporting. "Robots will learn by observing repeated motion data gathered by their sensors," explained Yang Zhengye, the center's director of market systems. Data from these tasks will help improve robot performance, enabling them to perform more complex actions autonomously.

In its testing phase, the centre is already generating 20,000 to 30,000 data entries per day. Once fully operational, it is expected to produce up to 50,000 entries daily. The long-term goal is to create a data exchange platform for developers, allowing them to share scenario-specific data for industries such as home appliances and healthcare, thus driving innovation and reducing redundancy.

Experts are optimistic that the centre’s work will accelerate progress in humanoid robotics, ultimately paving the way for robots to assist or replace human labour in various industries.

By Naila Huseynova