Jakarta, INTI – The global manufacturing industry is now entering a new era with the introduction of humanoid robots working collaboratively on production floors. A major milestone in this innovation has taken place at Geely’s Zeekr 5G smart factory, located in Ningbo, Zhejiang Province, China. Dozens of advanced humanoid robots now operate alongside human teams, sorting materials, transporting boxes, and assembling complex car components. This phenomenon marks a new chapter in the automotive industry, where robot collaboration closely mirrors human teamwork in the workplace.
Walker S1 Robot: A Revolution in Industrial Robot Collaboration
The humanoid robots used in this factory were developed by Shenzhen-based technology company UBTECH. The implemented model, Walker S1, represents a significant breakthrough in robotics. It is the first time multiple humanoid robots have been trained to work together across various tasks and complex zones in a real industrial environment.
This success is made possible by UBTECH’s "brain network" system, which enables the robots to function not just as individual units but as a well-coordinated team. According to Jiao Jichao, Vice President of UBTECH, this technology integrates two key components: a "super brain" for decision-making and a "mini-brain" for real-time task execution.
Artificial Intelligence for Production Efficiency
The "super brain" utilizes artificial intelligence (AI) such as DeepSeek to analyze data and manage workflow, much like a production manager assigning tasks to their team. Meanwhile, the "mini-brain" embedded in each robot allows them to recognize their surroundings, adjust grip strength for handling delicate components, and share real-time information with teammates.
In practice, these robots are equipped with advanced cameras that enable them to track components across different work zones. They can also map production areas and handle flexible materials such as films with extreme precision, ensuring no damage occurs. This demonstrates that humanoid robots are not only capable of replacing human labor in physically demanding tasks but also in roles requiring high precision and care.
Continuous Learning for Optimal Adaptation
One of the key aspects that makes this system superior is its ability to learn and adapt continuously. While performing tasks, these robots collect "hundreds of millions" of data points from real industrial environments. This data is then stored in a knowledge database, allowing each robot to quickly acquire new skills and adjust its role on the assembly line.
With this approach, humanoid robots can be easily reprogrammed to handle new tasks, enhancing production flexibility and operational efficiency in automotive factories.
Collaboration with the Automotive and Logistics Industries
UBTECH has already partnered with major automotive manufacturers such as BYD and BAIC, as well as logistics giant SF Express. These collaborations aim to accelerate the deployment of Walker S-series robots across various industrial sectors.
Recognizing the immense potential of this technology, UBTECH plans to expand the implementation of multi-robot collaborative systems in more factories. "We aim to continue developing this technology so that humanoid robots can be more widely applied across different industrial environments," said Jiao Jichao.
The Future of the Manufacturing Industry
The successful integration of humanoid robots in team-based work at the Zeekr 5G factory proves that technological advancement is not just about production efficiency but also about how artificial intelligence can create a more flexible and productive work ecosystem. With continuous progress, the future of manufacturing is expected to increasingly rely on collaboration between humans and robots to build a more modern and highly competitive industry.
Conclusion
Humanoid robot technology has opened new opportunities in the industrial world, particularly in automotive manufacturing. With a combination of artificial intelligence, brain network systems, and continuous learning capabilities, these robots can adapt to complex work environments and improve production efficiency. The successful implementation of Walker S1 at Geely’s factory is evidence that the future of the industry will increasingly depend on human-robot collaboration to achieve higher productivity. As the adoption of this technology expands, the global industry will continue transforming towards greater efficiency and innovation.
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