China’s latest robots move so smoothly scientists dubbed them ‘zero gravity’
- Robotic arm that makes heavy lifting easier can enhance and speed up bespoke projects such as building satellites, researchers say
- Use of robots is speeding up construction of China’s BeiDou global positioning system, researchers say
The technology uses artificial intelligence (AI) with cutting-edge sensors to help the “robot”, essentially a giant arm, grip and lift heavy objects, according to scientists with China Aerospace Science and Technology Corporation, the state-owned main contractor for the country’s space programme.
The sensors allow the arm to collaborate seamlessly with human technicians to perform tasks in a fraction of the time they took before – which is proving a particular advantage in China’s endeavours in space.
When Hu Ruiqin and colleagues started their programme at the Beijing Institute of Spacecraft Environment Engineering about a decade ago, building a satellite was a labour-intensive job. Technicians had to lift and mount parts by hand, or with the help of cranes, which risked damaging components or affecting the quality of assembly.
The researchers put sophisticated visual and mechanical sensors on the robotic arm. They upgraded its motors to achieve gentle, smooth movements when holding a heavy object. They also gave it a brain with AI algorithms.
They were aiming to create technology that could “feel” the surrounding environment and respond, interacting with humans.