Inside China’s ‘robot school’ where humanoid machines are learning everyday tasks
Inside China’s ‘robot school’ where humanoid machines are learning everyday tasks
Training Process and Technology
Deep within Wuhan’s East Lake High-tech Development Zone, a cutting-edge facility is transforming the way humanoid robots acquire practical skills. Here, engineers employ virtual reality technology to guide robotic movements in real time, generating vast datasets through hands-on demonstration.
Qu Qiongbin, an AI robot trainer, explained that the process involves instructors donning VR headsets and using controllers to mirror the robots’ actions. The systems learn by replicating these gestures, with data subsequently transferred to the cloud for integration into their programming.
This state-of-the-art facility, nestled within Wuhan’s East Lake High-tech Development Zone—revered as China’s Optics Valley—houses robots in environments designed to simulate daily activities. Training sessions take place in spaces resembling living rooms and factory workshops, where machines practice routine tasks.
Learning Through Repetition
Trainers perform actions multiple times, generating extensive data sets that enable the robots to progressively refine their abilities through iterative learning. Yang Xinyi, project leader at Data Fusion Technology, noted that the approach focuses on crafting immersive, one-on-one situations to simulate real-world interactions, ensuring robots gain practical experience.
“We train and teach robots by creating realistic, one-to-one scenarios. Trainers may repeat a single action hundreds, thousands, or even tens of thousands of times to teach it, and then use the data to support this training,” said Yang Xinyi.
Researchers emphasize that the goal is to equip humanoid robots with the capability to function effectively in actual environments. Public engagement is already possible at the 7S Humanoid Robot Store in Wuhan, where individuals can observe robots executing commands and performing basic tasks.
