On the bustling floor of the Ex-Robots factory in Dalian, a coastal city in northeastern China, engineers are pushing the boundaries of robotics by developing humanoid robots that excel in facial expressions and emotional responses. The factory’s workspace is dotted with neck-length silicone masks, silicone arms and feet, and disembodied heads in various stages of construction. Alongside these components, complete humanoid robots and sketches of future designs adorn the factory, showcasing the intricate process of creation.
“We have our own software and algorithm teams,” stated Li Boyang, Chief Executive of Ex-Robots. He emphasized that humanoid robots are the most complex category within robotic products. “There are many basic models and algorithms that are commonly open source, which everyone uses. However, we concentrate more on how to enable the AI to recognize and express expressions and emotions.”
In a fascinating demonstration, an Ex-Robots worker moves her head, smiles, and sticks out her tongue, while a humanoid robot mirrors her actions. This impressive mimicry is made possible by tiny motors installed at strategic points within the robot’s head. “We are also working on the foundation model. The model we’re making is multi-modal and capable of emotional expression. It can perceive the surrounding environment and produce appropriate facial feedback,” Li explained.
Producing a humanoid robot at Ex-Robots takes between two weeks to a month, with prices ranging from 1.5 million yuan ($207,000) to 2 million yuan. Currently, the primary use for these robots is for display purposes, particularly in museums, one of which is located within the same building as the factory.
Looking towards the future, Li Boyang envisions a broader role for humanoid robots in healthcare and education. “Psychological counseling and health are certainly future application scenarios. We are currently conducting related research, such as auxiliary treatment and preliminary screening for emotional and psychological disorders,” he said. Additionally, Li sees vast potential in emotional interaction within service fields, particularly those aimed at children.
As Ex-Robots continues to refine and innovate, their work not only showcases the cutting-edge technology emerging from China but also hints at the transformative impact humanoid robots could have on various sectors, from healthcare to education, in the near future.
