With human-like arms and legs, humanoid robots have recently been taking advantage of their stature to compete in the World Humanoid Games in China beginning on Saturday. IDTechEx's portfolio of Robotics & Autonomy Research Reports and Subscriptions uncovers the technologies that make these robots move and their day to day roles outside of this competition.
Competitive robots
During the games, humanoid robots have achieved faster sprinting times than record-breaking humans such as Usain Bolt, showcasing their nimble nature and programmability. The robots have also taken part in boxing matches, high jump, and Tai Chi, as well as table tennis and football games, using their dexterity and spatial awareness to work as a team. The competitiveness showcased by the robots highlights the extent to which technology can be used to mimic human behaviour, using AI programming and different types of sensors.
The Scientific American newspaper has described the World Humanoid Games as being 'as ridiculous as it is impressive', reporting how despite running at record-breaking speeds, the robots came to a less graceful stop as they hit a cushioned wall or caught fire. Representing 16 countries and taking part in a diverse array of 51 events, the humanoids' capabilities have been put to the test in these niche circumstances.
Source: IDTechEx.
The tech behind the Tai Chi
When they're not competing in sporting competitions, humanoid robots can be found in a number of huge industries, including automotives, logistics, security, and domestics. Humanoids could be found completing tasks from badge labelling, inspection, and material handling, which are already established applications, to patrolling and surveillance in the future. IDTechEx reports that during the past year, humanoid development has come a long way, moving from demonstrations to actually working on production sites as a result of growing investments and feedback regarding their viability in different circumstances.
Source: IDTechEx.
Some of the main trends behind humanoid development are explored within IDTechEx's report, "Humanoid Robots 2026-2036: Technologies, Markets, and Opportunities", including components that are modular and can allow for easy replaceability. Parts can be upgraded without an entire system needing to be taken apart, and with this approach, features such as actuators, motors, and sensor modules could be more efficiently repaired to extend lifespans and keep robots in good condition.
The use of lightweight and efficient materials is also a point of discussion, to reduce power consumption and increase agility, something which will be of great use for not only World Humanoid Games, but also workplace applications. High-capacity batteries will also be sought after for humanoid robots, to ensure that the robots can work for long periods of time without needing to take charging breaks, alongside regenerative braking mechanisms and low power actuators for optimal power efficiency.
As success increases across the humanoid sector, next year's World Humanoid Games could see an even wider variety of games being competed in, perhaps with perfected landings.
For more information on the developments of humanoid robots and the wider robotics market, visit IDTechEx's portfolio of Robotics & Autonomy Research Reports and Subscriptions for the latest updates and forecasts.
