Post by : Shakul

China showcased a unique blend of tradition and technology during the Dragon Boat Festival in Sichuan Province, where humanoid robots participated in dragon boat rowing and traditional food-making activities. The demonstration featured two Tiangong humanoid robots developed by the Beijing Humanoid Robotics Innovation Center.

The event was held in Bazhong as part of preparations for the upcoming 2026 World Humanoid Robot Games. The robots joined six local athletes in a dragon boat, demonstrating their ability to coordinate movements with human teammates during a traditional sporting activity.

Two Weeks of Intensive Training

According to organizers, the robots underwent more than two weeks of specialized training before the event. Initial practice sessions were conducted at Beijing’s Shichahai Lake before moving to the rivers of Bazhong for real-world testing.

Engineers focused on improving balance, timing, and coordination so the robots could perform the complex rowing motions required in dragon boat racing. Their performance reportedly improved significantly during the training period.

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Robots Take Full Control of the Boat

One of the most remarkable moments came when the human rowers stopped paddling and allowed the robots to take over completely. Despite moving at a slower pace, the boat continued advancing under the control of the humanoid machines.

Developers said the test demonstrated advances in motion control, coordination, and stability. Engineers optimized the robots’ waist and arm movements to better replicate human rowing techniques and maintain synchronized actions.

Beyond Rowing Making Traditional Dumplings

The robots were also tested in traditional festival activities beyond rowing. They participated in pounding glutinous rice and preparing zongzi, a popular rice dumpling traditionally eaten during the Dragon Boat Festival.

The tasks required the robots to handle ingredients, work with water, and perform repetitive movements while maintaining balance. Developers described the demonstrations as important steps toward creating domestic robots capable of operating safely in kitchens and other household environments.

Advancing Water Resistance and AI Skills

Researchers highlighted that the event allowed them to evaluate the robots' ability to function in wet conditions. Handling water and food ingredients provided an opportunity to test improvements in durability, precision, and environmental adaptability.

The demonstration also served as a practical test of embedded artificial intelligence systems designed to help humanoid robots perform everyday tasks while interacting with humans.

Focus Turns to World Humanoid Robot Games

The Sichuan event forms part of a nationwide promotional relay leading up to the 2026 World Humanoid Robot Games. The competition is scheduled to take place in Beijing from August 22 to August 26 and will feature more than 30 events focused exclusively on humanoid robots.

Organizers say the games will provide a global platform to showcase the latest advancements in robotics, artificial intelligence, mobility, and machine coordination.

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