n TECHNOLOGY February 2025 www.drivesncontrols.com 14 CHINA’S FIFTH-LARGEST CAR MAKER, GAC (Guangzhou Automobile Group), has unveiled a humanoid robot that can move around on either two or four wheels, and incorporates 38 degrees of freedom. The third-generation GoMate robots are aimed at production line duties, as well as applications in logistics, security, healthcare and education. State-owned GAC is planning to start producing components for the robots, such as exible hands, miniature servodrives and axial-ux joint motors, this year, before embarking on batch production of the humanoid robots in 2026, and then moving on to large-scale mass production. The rst uses are expected to be in industrial and security applications at GAC’s Trumpchi and Aion automotive subsidiaries. In its four-wheeled mode, the robot is 1.4m tall and can climb stairs and slopes, and cross obstacles. In its two-wheeled mode, the robot is 1.75m tall and takes up less space. GAC says that the “unique” variable wheel structure not only improves the robot's adaptability and stability in complex environments, but also cuts energy use by more than 80% energy compared to some rival technologies. At the recent launch of the GoMate in Shanghai, GAC demonstrated the robot’s precision motion control, accurate navigation and positioning, as well as autonomous decision-making capabilities. The robot incorporates an autonomous visual driving algorithm as well as a Slam (simultaneous localisation and mapping) algorithm which supports a transition from two-dimensional to spatial intelligence. Large multimodal models in the cloud will allow the robots to respond to complex human voice commands “within milliseconds”. Using a 3D-GS scene reconstruction technology and immersive VR head displays for remote control, the GoMate’s movements can be planned “with centimetre accuracy”. In dynamic scenarios, the robots use a sensitive obstacle-avoidance technology to detect any changes within 100m. Seamless switching between remote control and autonomous AI-driven control will allow the robots to adapt to dierent operating scenarios. By inputting massive amounts of data and optimising deep-learning algorithms, the GoMate will be able to perform “humanlike” recognition, understanding and decision-making tasks. GAC is developing components for the GoMate robots in-house, including: n dexterous hands that balance high load capacities with exibility, and havebuilt safety functions to protect against collisions; n coin-sized low-voltage servodrives that are less than 30mm high and oer current ratings up to 20A, and interfaces including EtherCat and Can; n axial- ux motors for joints with maximum output torque ratings of 1kNm, torque densities of up to 200Nm/kg, and ve-fold overload capacities; and n solid-state batteries with 6h lives, allowing the robot to perform long-term tasks and exploratory missions. MITSUBISHI ELECTRIC has announced an AI-powered visual inspection tool designed to ensure product quality in a range of industries without needing any programming. The Melsoft Vixio software allows users to set up three simple processes: making a picture dataset; conguring an AI model; and generating the task using low code, rather than programming. It is said to be accessible to anyone from newcomers to experts. “Our visual inspection software transforms the inspection process, making it more accurate and e¦cient,” says Daniel Sperlich, strategic product manager for controllers in Mitsubishi’s EMEA Factory Automation business. “It performs the heavy lifting of primary screenings, identifying potential defects with unmatched precision. Doing so liberates human inspectors to focus on what truly matters – ensuring that only the nest products reach the hands of consumers.” The tool is applied in four phases: n The learning phase The software learns what a “good”product looks like by reviewing many examples of good and bad items. n Image processing After learning, it analyses product images in real-time, comparing them with its training data. n Decision-making Based on its analysis, the software gives a product a “thumbs-up” if it meets the required criteria, or a “thumbs-down” if not, ensuring that only quality products are passed. n Feedback loop The software improves over time; if it makes mistakes, engineers can update its learning data to enhance its accuracy in recognising products. Unlike human inspectors who can tire, allowing defects to slip through, the software is said to be “tirelessly vigilant”, ensuring that every product meets the highest quality standards. Mitsubishi is aiming the tool at industries ranging from automotive to food & beverage. It says it will boost productivity, and cut waste and energy consumption. Trial versions are available. https://emea.mitsubishielectric.com/fa/ products/software-overview/vixio AI-powered visual inspector checks quality without programming Shapeshifting humanoid robots head for production lines GAC’s humanoid robot can move on either two or four wheels
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