Editor's Note:

A grand event was held at the Zhongguancun Exhibition Center in Beijing on May 30, 2024 to celebrate China's 8th National Science and Technology Workers Day. The event, titled "Song of Sci-tech Workers," was organized by the Beijing Association of Science and Technology (BAST) as part of a series of festivities running from May 1 to June 7. Six representatives from various fields of science and technology in Beijing were invited to share their stories of research and dedication at the event, showcasing the spirit of scientific innovation that helped drive Beijing to become a major global scientific center and innovation hub. These are the stories of these remarkable pioneers. 

Zhang Rui delivers a speech during BAST's celebration event for China's 8th National Science and Technology Workers Day on May 30, 2024. Photo: BAST

Zhang Rui's journey from a childhood fascination with robot toys to pioneering innovations in robotics exemplifies his unwavering passion and visionary approach.

Zhang, founder and CEO of Beijing Ironman Technology, was inspired his father, who used to bring back various robot toys from his business trips. These toys sparked a deep-seated curiosity and fascination with robotics that would shape his future. As he grew, this fascination matured into a determination to transform his passion into a career.

In 2015, Zhang took the bold step of starting his own robotics business. At that time, the robotics industry was largely focused on Industry 4.0, with many startups opting to develop robotic arms due to their proven efficiency and precision in industrial applications. However, Zhang envisioned a different future—one where humanoid robots, with their dynamic movement and sophisticated interaction capabilities, would become central to various industries.

This vision led Zhang to choose the path less traveled by focusing on humanoid robots. This decision was fraught with risks and challenges, as the field was relatively undeveloped with no established models or public data to guide them. The first three years of his startup were dedicated to intense research and development without any products or revenue. The company was sustained by self-funding and external investments, leveraging their early entry into the humanoid robot space to gain a competitive edge in fundraising.

Zhang's humanoid robots have undergone five significant iterations, each representing a leap in technological advancement. The first version was a bipedal robot with 12 degrees of freedom, marking an initial foray into basic mobility. Subsequent versions introduced a torso, arms, and increased degrees of freedom to 26 degrees, enhancing the robots' flexibility and stability. The third generation incorporated fingers, voice recognition, and vision modules, significantly improving interaction capabilities and environmental responsiveness.

By the fourth iteration, the robots adopted high-dynamic technology, achieving rapid movement and increased efficiency. The culmination of these efforts was the fifth-generation humanoid robot, designed for high-risk environments such as aerospace, chemical defense, and nuclear radiation. These robots can perform tasks too dangerous for humans, showcasing their potential to transform various industries.

The next challenge in developing humanoid robots is enhancing their load capacity. Zhang's innovative solution was to create a hybrid robot that combines the strengths of wheeled and legged designs. This hybrid robot surpasses natural predators like cheetahs in speed, agility, and strength. It can navigate complex terrains while carrying heavy loads, such as climbing steep slopes and rocks with a one-ton payload.

Zhang envisions a future where humanoid robots transcend industrial uses, integrating seamlessly into daily life much like computers evolved from academic to personal devices. He anticipates a time when humanoid robots possess cognitive abilities, make decisions, and collaborate with humans.

His journey epitomizes relentless pursuit, innovative thought, and an unwavering belief in technology's transformative potential. From inquisitive child to leading figure in humanoid robotics, Zhang's trajectory is an inspiring testament to passion actualized.

Zhang's impact on robotics extends beyond industry advancement. It reshapes the realm of possibility. His endeavors herald a new era where humanoid robots aren't mere tools but collaborative partners in forging a brighter, more advanced future.