THE future is here and was showcased in an eerie exhibition in China, where new companies presented hauntingly realistic humanoid machines.
The Autumn Edition of the HKTDC Hong Kong Electronics Fair showcased the latest breakthroughs in AI and robotics, including a personalised robot massage therapist and another that can run an entire cafe solo.
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Thousands of exhibitors from more than 20 countries around the world attended the four-day event, each displaying different applications of robotics in every day life – with some featuring particularly human-esque inventions.
Company COFE+ developed a coffee machine that makes the popular morning brew specifically tailored to the drinker.
The newest evolution of the robot is one that can “run an entire cafe” on its own.
Each beverage can be customised for sweetness, strength and temperature, or even printed in 3D with a photo, logo or message on the foam.
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The unit can brew five cups simultaneously – up to 1,000 cups a day – and operates around the clock.
Moving from coffee to medical care, Shenzhen DeyeeMed, a company developing robots for health and therapy applications showcased two innovative products.
The robots have been designed to identify human acupoints and quantify massage data, in order to deliver customised treatments for each user, an invention that could revolutionise the massage therapy industry.
According to Planning Director Hu Xin, the new tech is helping to reduce labour costs for hiring massage therapists and also lower the physical workload for existing practitioners.
Other companies like Deep Robotics are changing the way both emergency services and annual firefighter calendars could look, as they have busily developed the next generation of first responders, particularly firefighters.
Shanghai Qingbao Robot Co has focused on filling gaps in the aged care industry, with humanoid robots that have flexibly controlled facial movements.
Wang Lei, the company’s chairman said the demand for humanoid robots had increased in overseas markets to help fill gaps in aged care services and elderly companionship.
Another Chinese company PaXini Tech also introduced its humanoid robots, equipped with tactile sensors – a feature to enhance precision in force control.
Also looking to launch internationally, Startup SOTA Robotics showcased an “embodied intelligence robot” leaning into culture and entertainment.
The machine is designed to carry out tasks including performing orchestral music based on audience reactions.
The company has also targeted these robots towards the aged care industry, specifically looking at elderly companionship.
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