HIT's Breakthrough in Robotics: A Robot That Walks and Rolls

In a significant leap forward for China's robotics industry, Harbin Institute of Technology (HIT) has partnered with Bosi Corporation to unveil a groundbreaking dual-form humanoid robot system. This innovation represents years of research culminating in machines that could transform how we approach tasks from factory floors to disaster zones.

Two Robots, Countless Possibilities

The team developed two distinct platforms:

• Bipedal Walker: Designed for rough terrain like construction sites or disaster areas, this version mimics human movement with remarkable balance and obstacle navigation.
• Wheeled Performer: Optimized for indoor environments, this model trades walking ability for efficiency in service tasks and precision operations.

Both versions share advanced features including a 7-degree-of-freedom robotic arm capable of delicate tasks like handling fragile objects or assisting in assembly work.

Engineering Marvels Under the Hood

The robots' impressive capabilities stem from several technological breakthroughs:

Joint Technology:

• Rotational joints weighing just 5kg can handle 5kg loads
• Leg joints generate 400Nm torque for stable heavy lifting
• Linear joints deliver massive 10,000N thrust when needed

Dexterous Hands: Researchers developed two hand designs:

1. High-performance version with 15 active joints for precision work
2. Lightweight alternative with 7 active joints ideal for prolonged service tasks Both feature fingertip forces exceeding 30N and sophisticated force feedback systems.

The Brain Behind the Brawn: Huazi-Rixin AI

The robots' intelligent core comes from HIT's self-developed "Huazi-Rixin" AI model, which enables:

• Natural conversation understanding
• Complex task breakdown (like organizing workspaces)
• Environmental awareness through combined visual, force, and audio sensors The control system uses predictive modeling to maintain stability during dynamic interactions.

Industry-Academia Collaboration Bears Fruit

The project benefits from HIT's long partnership with Boshihua, a company incubated by the university's Robotics Research Institute. Since its founding in 1997, Boshihua has focused on industrial automation solutions. Professor Fu Yili notes: "This collaboration demonstrates how academic research can translate into practical applications when working closely with industry partners."

The dual-platform approach reflects China's growing confidence in robotics innovation - moving beyond simply matching specifications to creating solutions tailored for real-world needs.

Key Points:

• Dual-form robot adapts to different environments via walking or wheeled mobility
• Advanced joint technology enables both strength and precision
• Self-developed AI allows natural interaction and task execution
• Collaboration shows successful translation of academic research into practical applications