China's Humanoid Robots: From Walking to Flipping

In a groundbreaking demonstration, a humanoid robot measuring 1.38 meters tall and weighing 40 kilograms showcased its running abilities at Shenzhen Talent Park, captivating those who gathered to watch. This remarkable display was not part of an artistic performance, but rather a running test conducted by EngineAI, a Shenzhen-based robotics firm, highlighting a key advancement in China's humanoid robotics field.

Running is significantly more challenging for robots than walking. It demands quick actuator responses, strong resistance to impacts, and the ability to adjust posture precisely and in real-time using high-accuracy sensors, especially when navigating uneven terrain.

Just a few weeks prior, EngineAI's research team celebrated another breakthrough: their robot successfully executed the world's first humanoid front flip. This seemingly straightforward maneuver involved a complex combination of mechanical design, control systems, and sensor technology.

As Ren Guowen, one of the co-founders of EngineAI, explained, “Front flips are tougher than backflips since they require explosive power and precise control at the micron level. Achieving this balance is crucial to have a lightweight design without compromising performance.”

The joint modules, which constitute nearly 60% of the robot's weight, became the primary focus for enhancement during development. By introducing dynamic joint technology, EngineAI's team achieved remarkable agility while significantly cutting down the robot's overall weight.

Humanoid robots traditionally suffered from mechanical and sensor limitations, which restricted their movements to stiff and bent-knee walks. EngineAI overcame these restrictions in October 2024 by creating a new “straight-knee gait.” This innovative design drew inspiration from human motion, allowing robots to traverse complex environments with more natural fluidity.

However, the path to achieving robotic acrobatics was not without its setbacks. Yao Qiyuan, another co-founder, shared videos of robots experiencing falls—backward tumbles, face-plants, and skidding sideways, all leading to metallic joints clashing against the ground.

A major challenge arose when a 500-gram head was added, which destabilized the robot and significantly lowered the rate of successful flips.

Initially, engineers aimed for a “perfect landing” strategy, requiring precision to the millimeter. But after months of trying and failing, a new insight emerged: "Humans don’t freeze mid-air; why should robots?" Ren remarked. This led to a pivotal adjustment, allowing the robot to take two stabilizing steps after landing, closely mimicking human reflexes.

The robot crouched, built up momentum, launched itself into the air, performed a full flip, and landed smoothly.

After the viral success of the humanoid robot performing front flips, a team from Beijing recently introduced humanoid robots capable of executing consecutive backflips, further pushing the boundaries of robotics.

Zhao Tongyang, the CEO of EngineAI, revealed plans to incorporate advanced artificial intelligence technology this year, which will expand the robots' potential uses from industrial contexts to everyday scenarios. “Once we perfect mobility, introducing intelligence will unlock countless opportunities,” he stated.

As the Chinese robotics sector progresses swiftly, experts predict rapid commercialization. “With technology maturing and faster industry integration, we are set to see robots 'sprinting' into homes soon,” commented Bi Yalei, secretary general of the Shenzhen Robotics Association.

With advancements from walking to executing flips, China's humanoid robots are confidently advancing towards a promising future, as noted by Bi.

robots, technology, innovation