In a captivating blend of tradition and technology, 16 humanoid robots from the Chinese mainland's Unitree company took center stage at the annual Spring Festival Gala on Tuesday night. These advanced machines seamlessly partnered with human dancers to perform the vibrant Yangko dance, a beloved folk art from northeast China.
The highlight of the performance was the robots' impressive ability to manipulate handkerchiefs, a signature element of the Yangko dance. Utilizing precise mechanical arm movements, the robots twirled and soared handkerchiefs through the air, creating a dazzling spectacle that symbolized the fusion of cultural heritage and cutting-edge innovation.
Maintaining a stable upright position is a significant challenge for current humanoid robots, as evidenced by the shaky steps and tendency to lose balance seen in models like Elon Musk's Optimus. However, Unitree's robots overcame these challenges through the integration of advanced sensors, sophisticated algorithms, and smart design. "We've designed a very clever mechanism that integrates multiple AI control algorithms. At the end of the robotic arm, there are two motors: one maintains a high-speed spinning motion, while the other ensures that the handkerchief can be thrown out and then retracted," explained a Unitree marketing representative to CGTN.
Belonging to Unitree's H1 series and nicknamed Fuxi, these robots stand at 1.8 meters tall and weigh 47 kilograms. They made their debut in August 2023 and have since participated in major events, including the NVIDIA GTC conference in 2024.
To deliver a flawless performance, the robots underwent three months of intensive rehearsal. Their movements were meticulously designed to meet the dance's requirements and executed through rigorous AI training. Utilizing laser SLAM technology, the robots achieved precise positioning and automated formation changes, effectively navigating challenges such as stage floor gaps.
This groundbreaking performance not only showcases Unitree's advancements in robotics and AI but also highlights the potential for technology to enhance and preserve cultural traditions.
Reference(s):
Behind China's humanoid robot dance: How did they catch handkerchiefs?
cgtn.com
