清华成立具身智能与机器人研究院

Core Viewpoint - The establishment of the Tsinghua University Institute of Embodied Intelligence and Robotics marks a significant step in the rapid development of embodied intelligence in China, reflecting a broader trend among domestic universities to accelerate their focus on this field [1][5][26]. Group 1: Institutional Developments - Tsinghua University has established the Institute of Embodied Intelligence and Robotics, following the earlier creation of the Beijing Key Laboratory of Embodied Intelligence Systems [2][5]. - The new institute is led by Professor Zhang Tao, with a core team covering key areas such as intelligent control, robot navigation, and swarm intelligence [7][12]. - This institute aims to integrate interdisciplinary research, major project undertakings, and high-level talent cultivation, moving beyond the foundational research focus of previous laboratories [12][15]. Group 2: Broader Academic Trends - Many Chinese universities are actively establishing research institutes and laboratories focused on embodied intelligence, indicating a nationwide trend [4][16]. - Fudan University and Beihang University have also launched their respective institutes dedicated to embodied intelligence, emphasizing a collaborative approach across various disciplines [18][21]. - The shift from smaller laboratories to larger research institutes signifies a move towards more coordinated and large-scale efforts in embodied intelligence research [25][26]. Group 3: Educational Initiatives - Shanghai Jiao Tong University has introduced the world's first four-year undergraduate program in embodied intelligence, with other universities also applying to establish similar programs [28][31]. - The establishment of dedicated programs aims to address the urgent demand for interdisciplinary talent in the embodied intelligence sector, as traditional automation and robotics programs do not adequately prepare graduates for the comprehensive roles required in this emerging field [36][35]. Group 4: Market Potential - The market for embodied intelligence in China is projected to reach 5.295 billion yuan by 2025, with global expectations of surpassing 232.6 billion yuan by 2030 [33]. - Goldman Sachs predicts that the global humanoid robot market could reach between 38 billion to 205 billion USD by 2035, highlighting the significant growth potential in this sector [34].