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Zhongqing Robotics, also known as Engine AI, a Chinese robotic firm, has entered the field of humanoid robot development with what is claimed to be the world’s first front-flipping humanoid robot. In such a short time, PM01 humanoid model has cemented a stronghold in the robotics industry giving tough competition to other small humanoids like the Unitree G1 and Booster T1.
While robot backflips have been the norm since Boston Dynamics’ Atlas amazed the world with one in 2017, a front-flip model is an even more daunting task. Forward relations in gymnastics require more advanced control and balance, and this achievement is a giant leap in robotic agility.
A front flip is naturally harder than a backflip, both in terms of perceive and mechanics. Vision is lost in the middle of the air in a forward rotation, making it more difficult to find the landing. Backward falling comes naturally to humans compared to careening blindly forward. Backflips are also dependent on bigger muscle groups, such as the glutes and hamstrings, whereas front flips put greater pressure on the core and hip flexors.
For a human, indecision is the greatest challenge, as they are likely to end up on their head. But for a robot, there is no fear, hesitation, or self-preservation. Designed with strong electric motors and accurate coding, it simply does the turn as instructed, flipping with mechanical accuracy.
Zhongqing Robotics has shared a video of the feat, highlighting its innovative advances in humanoid robotics.
As opposed to Boston Dynamics and Unitree, which employed full-scale robots 1.5 meters and 1.8 meters in height, respectively, EngineAI chose its shorter PM01 model at 1.38 meters. Even at a smaller height, performing a front flip is still a challenging task, requiring superior dynamic balance, quick acceleration and pinpoint precision during landing.
EngineAI has mass-produced several robotic models, such as the PM01, priced at $13,700. The firm is still not announcing the price of its higher-end SE01 but company co-founder Yao Qiyuan said they will set its price between 150,000 yuan ($20,000) and 200,000 yuan.
EngineAI is one of a new generation of Chinese robotics startups that are making waves internationally. In the last month, Unitree’s humanoid bots caused abuzz after 16 of its H1 models danced in unison to a folk dance during the Spring Festival Gala, which state-owned China Central Television, CCTV broadcasted.
