Researchers and companies are making groundbreaking progress in humanoid robotics, with innovations in live skin technology and cost-effective robotic models. These advancements are driving the integration of robots into diverse real-world applications, revolutionising their capabilities in performing human-like tasks.
New Developments in Humanoid Robotics: Live Skin and Affordable Tech
June 28, 2024 — Researchers and companies are making significant strides in the field of humanoid robotics, pushing the boundaries in both realistic skin applications and affordability.
At the University of Tokyo, Professor Shoji Takeuchi and his team have developed a humanoid robot featuring “living skin.” This advancement came after prior research on a finger-shaped robot covered in engineered skin tissue. The new method, which employs collagen and plasma treatment for adhesion, allows the skin to move without peeling or tearing and can heal itself. Takeuchi aims to further enhance the skin’s realism by incorporating features like wrinkles, sweat glands, and blood vessels. The potential applications are vast, including medical research, drug development, cosmetics testing, and plastic surgery training.
In parallel, Chinese startup Unitree Robotics has introduced the G1 humanoid robot, notable for its competitive price of 99,000 yuan (£10,770). The G1 boasts impressive stability, flexibility, and dexterity, including 180-degree body rotation and the ability to manipulate objects precisely. This robot is driven by the company’s proprietary language model UnifoLM. Unidade Robotics claims full control over the G1’s core components, thanks to in-house development and production.
The global market for humanoid robots is thriving, with projections indicating it could reach $38 billion (£30 billion) by 2035, according to Goldman Sachs Research. Advances in AI and robotics, coupled with decreasing component costs, are accelerating the timeline for both factory and consumer applications. Established companies and startups alike are investing heavily in R&D to further this rapidly evolving sector.
These advancements are considered key to integrating robots into various real-world scenarios, enhancing their ability to perform human-like tasks with greater efficiency and accuracy.
