In a groundbreaking event, approximately 21 humanoid robots participated in a half-marathon in Beijing, China. The robots, with heights ranging from 114 cm to 175 cm, were designed to mimic human movement, walking or running without the aid of wheels.
The winning robot, Tiangong Ultra, completed the 21 km race in an impressive two hours and 40 minutes. Tang Jian, the chief technology officer behind Tiangong Ultra, attributed the robot's success to its long legs and an algorithm that simulates human marathon running. The event not only showcased the advancements in robotics but also highlighted areas for improvement, as some robots faced challenges, including one falling at the start and another colliding with a railing.
This event marks a significant step in the evolution of robotics, demonstrating the potential for humanoid robots in various applications beyond the racetrack. The integration of robots in such events fosters innovation and provides a platform for testing and refining their capabilities for real-world tasks.