In a groundbreaking blend of heritage preservation and cutting-edge technology, a 7,500-tonne Shikumen building complex has 'walked' back to its original site in Shanghai on the Chinese mainland. The 4,000-square-meter Huayanli Shikumen complex, nestled in the Zhangyuan cultural and historical district, embarked on its robotic journey on May 19 and arrived home on June 7.
To safeguard the 140-year-old district's rich architectural legacy during revitalization efforts, engineers positioned 432 miniature robotic walkers beneath the building's foundation. Moving at an average pace of 10 meters per day, these devices carried the structure steadily back to its spot without disturbing its historic footprint.
This mission underscores how data-driven engineering can revolutionize heritage restoration worldwide. For young global citizens, entrepreneurs, and culture enthusiasts, it's a striking example of preserving the past with 21st-century innovation. Could this be the blueprint for future sustainable urban renewal? The world is watching.
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Over 400 robots help return historic Shanghai complex to original site
cgtn.com
