China Deploys Humanoid Robots for Border Patrol and Inspections with Vietnam

China’s Bold Step into Embodied Artificial Intelligence: Deploying Humanoid Robots at the Vietnam Border

In a significant leap toward the integration of artificial intelligence into public security, China is on the brink of deploying humanoid robots to its border crossings with Vietnam. This initiative, aimed at enhancing border patrols and inspections, is a tangible manifestation of the concept of "embodied artificial intelligence." By utilizing these advanced robots, China aims not only to bolster security but also to explore the broader applications of humanoid robotics in everyday life.

Where the Robots Will Be Deployed

The deployment will feature the Walker S2 humanoid robots developed by UBTECH Robotics Corp. These innovative machines will be stationed at the Fanchenggang border crossing in Guangxi, a crucial coastal region that shares with Vietnam. With a substantial contract worth approximately $37 million (over £27.4 million), UBTECH is set to initiate the deployment as early as this month.

At this bustling border crossing, the Walker S2 robots will perform a variety of functions. They will assist border officials in managing passenger queues, directing vehicles, and providing information to travelers. Furthermore, certain units will patrol waiting areas and corridors, identify blocked exits, and monitor crowd patterns, alerting human officials when intervention may be necessary.

Additionally, other Walker S2 robots will operate within cargo lanes, assisting logistics teams in checking container identification numbers, confirming seals, and relaying pertinent status updates to dispatch centers. There’s even the prospect of dedicated robots conducting inspections in facilities involving steel, copper, and aluminum.

What is the Walker S2?

The Walker S2 is a full-size humanoid robot designed to navigate human-centric environments seamlessly. One of its standout features is its ability to autonomously change its batteries without needing human assistance, ensuring minimal downtime during operations. Equipped with advanced technologies such as cameras, depth sensors, and force feedback systems in its joints, the Walker S2 is capable of monitoring its surroundings effectively.

This robot is not just a one-trick pony; UBTECH positions it as a general-purpose worker versatile enough to adapt to various tasks, which sets it apart from specialized robots limited to singular functions.

China’s Push for Broader Use of Humanoid Robots

The rollout of Walker S2 robots at the Fanchenggang border crossing coincides with a nationwide trend wherein UBTECH has already introduced robots in factories and data centers across China this year. The company’s scientists assert, "This isn’t just a number; it’s proof of real-world value and the accelerating commercialization of humanoid robots globally!"

China’s commitment to expanding the use of humanoid robots is further underscored by a strategic policy push from the Ministry of Industry and Information Technology. They have called for the establishment of a national innovation system for humanoid robots by 2025, alongside drafting industry rules for governance in 2024. This forward-thinking approach positions robotics as a vital sector, with company executives actively involved in establishing national standards.

Moreover, China has laid the groundwork for further advancements by setting up a 3,000-square-meter humanoid robot data training center in the Shijingshan District. This facility will play a crucial role in refining the capabilities of humanoid robots and ensuring their safe and effective integration into various sectors.

Conclusion

China’s deployment of humanoid robots at its border with Vietnam marks a pivotal development in the realm of artificial intelligence and robotics. The Walker S2 robots exemplify the potential of embodied intelligence to enhance public safety and efficiency in border management. As this technological integration unfolds, it could pave the way for a future where humanoid robots play a vital role in everyday life, redefining the boundaries of human-robot interaction. As these initiatives gain traction, the world will be watching closely to see how they unfold and what implications they hold for the future of robotics.