Robots show off dexterity in cable connection challenge for 2nd World Humanoid Robot Games

A total of 14 teams advanced to the final stage of cable connection for the upcoming second World Humanoid Robot Games after a preliminary round completed on Monday in Beijing.

During the preliminary round, robots demonstrated their dexterity by aligning the USB plug with the port and applying precise pressure to complete the connection. The challenge lies in the USB's orientation -- distinguishing between positive and negative sides -- and requires the robot to identify the correct side before proceeding. The task also demands controlled force application, testing the robot's grip strength and fine motor precision.

The challenge underscores the importance of delicate manipulation and advanced control algorithms and robots must replicate human-like finger dexterity to perform such intricate tasks effectively.

Following intense competition, 14 teams successfully completed the cable connection task, earning their place in the upcoming final out of 24 teams.

"During the process of testing, we observe how the robots use their hands. For example, some utilize a single hand, while others employ two hands working together. This also indicates how well the robots have understood the competition rules during training. Robots capable of using both hands simultaneously tend to complete tasks more efficiently and quickly than those relying on just one," said Wang Shilong, chief judge for the agile hand category of the World Humanoid Robot Games.

The cable connection challenge is a core part of the second World Humanoid Robot Games, focusing on the precision and dexterity of humanoid manipulators. It integrates cutting-edge end-effector technology with sophisticated manipulation algorithms, aiming to push the boundaries of robots' fine motor capabilities.

Jointly hosted by the Beijing municipal government and China Media Group (CMG), the second World Humanoid Robot Games will be held at the National Speed Skating Oval, also known as the "Ice Ribbon," in Beijing from August 22 to 26.

The event has attracted 666 teams and 2,056 robots from 16 countries. It includes 30 competitive events spanning ball games and combat categories, plus 21 scenario-based challenges covering industrial assembly and home services.

Robots show off dexterity in cable connection challenge for 2nd World Humanoid Robot Games

Canada-headquartered athletic apparel brand Lululemon is embracing the vast Chinese market through a deepened presence at the ninth China International Import Expo (CIIE), which opened in Shanghai on Thursday.

This year's expo has drawn 4,144 overseas exhibitors from 152 countries and regions. As the guest country of honor, Canada brought a delegation of about 120 companies.

This year also marks Lululemon's third consecutive participation at the CIIE. Andre Maestrini, president and chief commercial officer of Lululemon, brought a global debut product to the booth -- a runner's vest that seamlessly integrates insulation with ventilation.

"You see the fabrics here, the perforation, the double layering and different inclusions of technical materials to be able for air to flow, but still protecting and keep you warm in extreme conditions," said Maestrini.

He also noted that while the product is designed domestically, its inspirations and effectiveness are honed and validated​ in China, a market featuring rapid evolution and highly diversified consumer demands.

"Outdoor, outwear, China is seeing a lot of progress, so it's very interesting to see what China guests require. If you know what China guests want, and [combined with] people that living in Vancouver or Whistler near Canada, because we have a lot of mountains and outdoors -- the combination makes it a global product," he said.

Beyond product development, global companies are increasingly regarding China not only as a destination for bilateral trade, but as a springboard for broader global investment.

"China speed, in terms of innovation [and] in trends, is so intense that if we are present in China, and we have teams here developing the products that's needed for the China market, we see the potential to export them," said Maestrini.

Launched in 2018, the CIIE is the world's first national-level expo dedicated to import, and has become an important gateway for foreign businesses seeking access to China's vast consumer and industrial markets. This year's exhibition is held from Nov. 5 to 10.

Canadian athletic apparel brand deepens China presence with proactive CIIE showcase

Canadian athletic apparel brand deepens China presence with proactive CIIE showcase