Artful Machines, Plant-Detecting Robots, and China’s Open-Source Humanoid: The Next Frontier in Robotics

TL:DR: China's open-source humanoid robot, Qinglong, is set to transform household services, while AI-created artwork is breaking auction records and a touch-based plant-ID robot is revolutionizing agriculture with non-invasive technology.

1. World’s First Electric Humanoid Robot Goes open-source to Speed up integration

China has unveiled Qinglong, its first full-sized general-purpose humanoid robot, at the 2024 World Artificial Intelligence Conference. Standing at 180 cm tall, Qinglong can perform tasks like desk cleaning in response to voice commands. Developed by the Shanghai-based National and Local Co-Built Humanoid Robotics Innovation Center, Qinglong features a highly bionic torso and anthropomorphic motion control, supporting multi-modal mobility, perception, interaction, and manipulation. Notably, the center has open-sourced the robot's full-stack technology, including its brain, cerebellum, and limb technologies, aiming to foster innovation and broader applications in household services and caregiving over the next five to ten years.

Major takeaway: By open-sourcing Qinglong's technology, China is accelerating innovation in humanoid robotics, potentially transforming sectors like household services and caregiving.

2. Unbelievable Price for Artwork Created by Humanoid Robot!

In a groundbreaking event, a humanoid robot has created artwork that fetched an astonishing price at auction. This development highlights the evolving intersection of artificial intelligence and the art world, challenging traditional notions of creativity and authorship. The robot, designed with advanced algorithms and mechanical precision, produced pieces that captivated collectors and art enthusiasts alike. The high auction price underscores the growing acceptance and value of AI-generated art in contemporary culture.

Major takeaway: The sale of robot-created artwork at a significant price point marks a pivotal moment in art history, reflecting the increasing integration of AI into creative processes and its recognition in the art market.

3. No eyes needed: China’s robot nails plat ID by touch with 97.7% accuracy

Researchers at the Chinese Academy of Sciences have developed a robotic system capable of identifying plant species by analyzing unique electrical signals emitted when their leaves are touched. The robot has achieved an impressive accuracy rate of 97.7% in distinguishing between plant species. This method leverages the natural bioelectrical properties of plants, providing a novel, non-invasive approach to plant identification.

Major takeaway: this technology enables efficient, non-invasive plant identification, revolutionizing agriculture, environmental monitoring, and biodiversity research by optimizing resource management, enhancing sustainability, and improving ecosystem understanding.

About Lucid Bots: 

Founded in 2018, Lucid Bots Inc. is an AI robotics company that is committed to uplifting humanity by building the world's most productive and responsible robots that can do dangerous and demanding tasks. Headquartered in Charlotte, the company engineers, manufactures, and supports its products domestically, which include the Sherpa, a cleaning drone, and the Lavo Bot, a pressure-washing robot. Lucid Bots' products are elevating safety and efficiency for a growing number of customers around the world. Lucid is a Y Combinator-backed company, with investments from Cubit Capital, Idea Fund Partners, Danu Ventures, and others. Lucid Bots was recently recognized as the 4th fastest growing manufacturing company in the United States.