Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the development and significance of a new soft-bodied underwater robot that utilizes innovative electro-hydraulic actuation technology, enabling it to operate effectively in extreme deep-sea environments, overcoming the limitations of traditional rigid robots [4][10][22]. Group 1: Technology and Innovation - The soft-bodied robot measures 32 cm in length, has an 18 cm wingspan, and weighs only 670 grams, showcasing exceptional adaptability to deep-sea conditions [1][7]. - Traditional rigid robots struggle in the deep sea due to high pressure and complex environments, making soft-bodied robots a more suitable solution due to their flexible structure and minimal environmental interference [3][4]. - The research team led by Professor Li Guorui from Harbin Engineering University has pioneered the use of electro-hydraulic actuators (EHA) for deep-sea soft-bodied robots, which do not rely on external pumps, thus allowing for a more compact and flexible design [4][10]. Group 2: Design Features - The robot features a wave-shaped tail for propulsion, buoyancy modules for stability, and an integrated optical sensing module for height adjustment, enabling it to monitor its distance from the seabed continuously [7][9]. - It incorporates a micro deep-sea optical sensing system that allows real-time perception of its motion and environmental targets, enhancing its operational capabilities in extreme conditions [9][10]. Group 3: Performance and Testing - The research team successfully tested the robot in various depths, including a deployment at 3176 meters in the South China Sea, where it demonstrated reliable maneuverability and sensing capabilities under extreme pressure and complex flow conditions [17][21]. - The robot's innovative design allows it to perform complex trajectory movements and low-disturbance detection, marking a significant advancement in deep-sea exploration technology [22][24]. Group 4: Future Implications - The development of this soft-bodied robot represents a breakthrough in deep-sea exploration, providing a powerful tool for marine scientific research, resource exploration, and environmental monitoring [22][10]. - The integration of artificial intelligence and robotics is expected to drive significant advancements in ocean development, making the ocean economy a vital growth point for coastal regions [22].

Core Viewpoint - The research conducted by the Harbin Engineering University team presents a novel deep-sea soft robot that operates autonomously, showcasing significant advancements in underwater robotics technology [3][5][17]. Group 1: Research and Development - The research was a collaborative effort involving Harbin Engineering University, Zhejiang University, and the China Ship Scientific Research Center, and it has been validated in various deep-sea environments, including depths of 1369 meters and 4070 meters [5][15]. - The robot measures approximately 32 cm in length and 18 cm in wingspan, weighing only 670 grams, and is designed to withstand extreme underwater pressure without a rigid shell [7][11]. Group 2: Technical Innovations - The robot utilizes an electrohydraulic drive mechanism inspired by the "electrohydrodynamics" phenomenon, allowing for precise control of its flexible components through the directional flow of dielectric fluid [11][13]. - A unique "electrohydraulic, plasticized medium integration" strategy was developed to maintain the flexibility of the polymer shell while ensuring efficient actuation, utilizing surrounding seawater as an alternating electrode to enhance performance [13][15]. Group 3: Functional Capabilities - The robot is equipped with a miniaturized energy control system that enables coordinated movement, allowing it to perform various maneuvers such as straight-line motion and turns in response to electrical signals [13][15]. - It features a micro deep-sea optical sensing system that provides real-time awareness of its movement and environmental targets, enhancing its capabilities for near-bottom sensing in extreme conditions [13][15]. Group 4: Testing and Future Directions - The team conducted extensive sea trials, demonstrating the robot's ability to perform complex trajectory movements and environmental sensing tasks in challenging underwater conditions [15][20]. - Future research will focus on interdisciplinary integration of driving, sensing, and communication systems for small deep-sea soft robots, aiming to overcome challenges related to material durability and system reliability [20].

Group 1 - The core achievement of Harbin Engineering University is the development of an electro-hydraulic deep-sea soft robot, which has been tested in various deep-sea environments, including depths of 1369 meters and 4070 meters [2] - The robot utilizes a miniaturized energy control system for electro-hydraulic unit coordination, enabling it to perform various movements in deep-sea conditions [2] - The soft robot is equipped with a micro deep-sea optical perception system, allowing it to sense its motion state and environmental targets in extreme underwater conditions [2] Group 2 - Figure Company showcased its humanoid robot, Figure 02, which can autonomously fold clothes, utilizing the Helix model for visual language action [5] - The Helix model allows the robot to learn directly from real-world scenarios without relying on rigid fabric models, enhancing its operational capabilities [5] - The robot's neural network has transitioned from merely moving boxes to accurately picking up clothes and folding them through a data-driven approach [5] Group 3 - The 2025 World Robot Conference in Beijing resulted in significant industry promotion, with over 19,000 robots and related products sold, generating sales exceeding 200 million yuan [9] - The conference featured 220 renowned domestic and international robot companies, showcasing 1569 products and securing a total financing amount of 1.481 billion yuan [9] - New initiatives were launched during the conference, including talent cultivation plans and the release of research reports on the development trends of embodied intelligent robots [9] Group 4 - A new data-driven framework called Bioinspired Predictive Slip Control (BPSC) was proposed to enhance robotic manipulation by actively suppressing slip during operations [12] - The BPSC framework integrates neural network predictions with model predictive control, significantly improving stability and adaptability in complex handling tasks [12] - Experimental results indicate that the slip suppression efficiency of this method is 82% higher than traditional gripping force control methods [12] Group 5 - Ninebot Company reported a 76.14% year-on-year increase in revenue, reaching 11.742 billion yuan, and a net profit growth of 108.45%, amounting to 1.242 billion yuan [15] - The company has accumulated 3,790 patents and is actively involved in standardization activities, filling several industry gaps across various technology fields [15] - Key technologies developed by Ninebot include sensorless drive technology and autonomous navigation systems, which have been widely applied across multiple product lines [15]