Chinese company Fourier Intelligence has unveiled its GR-1 general-purpose humanoid robot, which is designed with a unique focus on caregiving and physical therapy. The company plans to manufacture 100 units of the GR-1 robot by the end of 2023, and it claims that the robot will be able to carry nearly its own weight.
Fourier Intelligence specializes in rehabilitation technologies, offering a range of physical therapy devices on its RehabHub platform. These devices are designed to help treat various issues, from wrist strength games to hand and finger grip training, and even lower-body exoskeletons for training individuals to walk, sit, stand, balance, and climb stairs.
Given its focus on rehabilitation technologies, the launch of the GR-1 humanoid robot might seem unexpected. However, the development of a lower-body physical therapy exoskeleton requires similar hardware and solutions as a robot’s legs. Additionally, China is facing a future where the number of older people requiring support will far outnumber the working-age population. As a result, the use of robots like the GR-1 to assist with caregiving and physical therapy could be crucial.
With a height of 165 cm (5 ft 5 in) and weighing 55 kg (121 lb), the GR-1 robot features a screen face and a top walking speed of approximately 5 km/h (3 mph). Its joints utilize electric actuators to provide 40 degrees of freedom, powered by strong electric motors capable of generating up to 300 Nm (221 lb-ft) of torque. This allows the robot to carry loads of up to 50 kg (110 lb), nearly its own weight.
According to Fourier Intelligence, the GR-1 humanoid robot has the potential to serve as a caregiver, therapy assistant, and companion for the elderly. The robot can achieve self-balance walking and perform various tasks, from sitting and standing to picking up utensils and tools. The company has been working on prototypes of the GR-1 since 2021, with the goal of sending 100 units to R&D labs by the end of the year.
The GR-1 is not designed as a fully-functional general-purpose robot initially. Instead, it will be shipped as a hardware/software platform with basic capabilities, allowing robotics teams to explore and enhance its functionalities. This collaborative approach aims to accelerate the robot’s development by introducing diverse and complementary techniques.
The potential impact of robots like the GR-1 is significant, particularly in countries facing a shortage of working-age individuals to provide care for the elderly and patients with injuries. By offering capable, responsive, and friendly robots, companies like Fourier Intelligence could help address these challenges.
While the GR-1 humanoid robot shows promise, challenges lie ahead in terms of teaching it to navigate autonomously and perform unprogrammed tasks in complex environments. By rushing to production and inviting collaboration, Fourier Intelligence hopes to overcome these hurdles and position the GR-1 as a key player in the emerging market for general-purpose humanoid robots.
As the development of humanoid robots progresses, it is crucial to maintain balance and present different perspectives on their role in caregiving and physical therapy. In the future, it’s possible that robots could provide invaluable support, but it’s important to consider the ethical implications and ensure that human connection and care are not compromised.
With its unique focus on caregiving and physical therapy, the GR-1 robot from Fourier Intelligence represents an exciting advancement in the field of robotics. As more prototypes are tested and refined, we can expect to see further progress in the capabilities and applications of humanoid robots, ultimately improving the lives of those who require assistance and support.
