Kepler's Forerunner K2 'Bumblebee': A Leap Forward in Industrial AI Robotics
In a remarkable demonstration of technological advancement, Kepler Robotics unveiled its Forerunner K2 'Bumblebee' humanoid robot at the 2025 World Artificial Intelligence Conference (WAIC) held in Shanghai. During the conference, the K2 completed an unprecedented 8-hour continuous livestream, showcasing its operational capabilities in various industrial scenarios, and marking a significant step forward for embodied AI applications in real-world settings.
The Forerunner K2 is designed to tackle real-world challenges faced by humanoid robots, particularly endurance, which has been a limiting factor in deploying such technology in industrial contexts. Standing at 175 cm tall and weighing 75 kg, the K2 features 52 degrees of freedom, allowing it to perform tasks that require intricate movements and dexterity.
Throughout the day-long livestream on July 27, the robot wowed audience members by executing dynamic dance routines and engaging in interactive games such as Pictionary. Impressively, while showing its entertainment potential, it also demonstrated practical skills in simulated industrial environments, including completing sorting tasks and blind box retrieval.
One of the major talking points for the K2 is its innovative actuator system, which combines planetary roller screw actuators with rotary actuators in a series-parallel configuration. This proprietary design gives the robot unparalleled endurance, enabling it to operate for eight hours on just a one-hour charge. With this optimized energy efficiency, the K2 cements its place as a leading solution for the evolving demands of industrial work environments, capable of seamlessly integrating into standard logistics and manufacturing workflows.
Kepler Robotics showcased the K2's operational abilities across four distinct demonstration zones that simulated various real-world industrial tasks, including logistics sorting, material handling, automotive manufacturing, and education. These scenarios allowed the K2 to flex its capabilities effectively, proving its adaptability in diverse practical applications.
When it comes to strength and performance, the K2 does not fall short. The robot can handle payloads of up to 30 kg (66 lbs) with fluid, coordinated movements, thanks to its advanced roller screw actuator system. These actuators are strategically positioned in the thighs, calves, and arms to provide superior load capacity while maintaining rigidity, a crucial aspect when dealing with industrial tasks.
Precision is another vital factor in industrial automation, and the K2 excels here as well. The robot features a 'Nimble Master' dexterity system with six-axis force wrists and 11 degrees of freedom in its hands. This complex arrangement allows for millimeter-level accuracy and a remarkable capability to adapt its grip strategy when handling various objects—traits particularly useful when manipulating items with irregular shapes or soft packaging.
During its live demonstration, the K2 impressed with its ability to sort blind box gifts according to colors and labels—a task where conventional robotic systems often struggle. The K2's purpose-designed micro-models provided real-time tactile feedback, achieving flawless, precise sorting that typically requires human intervention.
Kepler Robotics has made significant advancements in developing the 'brain' capabilities of the K2 through strategic partnerships with leading AI model providers, allowing the robot to utilize advanced cognitive functions for decision-making and task execution. With integrated sensors and cameras fueled by Kepler's proprietary technology, the K2 can assess its environment and execute tasks autonomously, ensuring smooth operational procedures.
The K2 'Bumblebee' represents a monumental leap in the integration of humanoid robots into real-world applications, achieving a balance between performance, commercial viability, and cutting-edge technology. As part of its commitment to redefining industrial productivity, Kepler has begun pre-sales for the K2, available in multiple configurations and designed specifically for various industrial needs. This marks not only a significant commercialization milestone for Kepler but also a step toward widespread adoption of robotics in sectors requiring high adaptability and efficiency.
As Kepler Robotics continues to lead the way in advancing humanoid robotics technology, the K2 'Bumblebee' is poised to make a lasting impact across multiple industries, paving the way for a future where intelligent robots seamlessly enhance human capabilities in everyday work environments.
The Forerunner K2 is designed to tackle real-world challenges faced by humanoid robots, particularly endurance, which has been a limiting factor in deploying such technology in industrial contexts. Standing at 175 cm tall and weighing 75 kg, the K2 features 52 degrees of freedom, allowing it to perform tasks that require intricate movements and dexterity.
Throughout the day-long livestream on July 27, the robot wowed audience members by executing dynamic dance routines and engaging in interactive games such as Pictionary. Impressively, while showing its entertainment potential, it also demonstrated practical skills in simulated industrial environments, including completing sorting tasks and blind box retrieval.
One of the major talking points for the K2 is its innovative actuator system, which combines planetary roller screw actuators with rotary actuators in a series-parallel configuration. This proprietary design gives the robot unparalleled endurance, enabling it to operate for eight hours on just a one-hour charge. With this optimized energy efficiency, the K2 cements its place as a leading solution for the evolving demands of industrial work environments, capable of seamlessly integrating into standard logistics and manufacturing workflows.
Kepler Robotics showcased the K2's operational abilities across four distinct demonstration zones that simulated various real-world industrial tasks, including logistics sorting, material handling, automotive manufacturing, and education. These scenarios allowed the K2 to flex its capabilities effectively, proving its adaptability in diverse practical applications.
When it comes to strength and performance, the K2 does not fall short. The robot can handle payloads of up to 30 kg (66 lbs) with fluid, coordinated movements, thanks to its advanced roller screw actuator system. These actuators are strategically positioned in the thighs, calves, and arms to provide superior load capacity while maintaining rigidity, a crucial aspect when dealing with industrial tasks.
Precision is another vital factor in industrial automation, and the K2 excels here as well. The robot features a 'Nimble Master' dexterity system with six-axis force wrists and 11 degrees of freedom in its hands. This complex arrangement allows for millimeter-level accuracy and a remarkable capability to adapt its grip strategy when handling various objects—traits particularly useful when manipulating items with irregular shapes or soft packaging.
During its live demonstration, the K2 impressed with its ability to sort blind box gifts according to colors and labels—a task where conventional robotic systems often struggle. The K2's purpose-designed micro-models provided real-time tactile feedback, achieving flawless, precise sorting that typically requires human intervention.
Kepler Robotics has made significant advancements in developing the 'brain' capabilities of the K2 through strategic partnerships with leading AI model providers, allowing the robot to utilize advanced cognitive functions for decision-making and task execution. With integrated sensors and cameras fueled by Kepler's proprietary technology, the K2 can assess its environment and execute tasks autonomously, ensuring smooth operational procedures.
The K2 'Bumblebee' represents a monumental leap in the integration of humanoid robots into real-world applications, achieving a balance between performance, commercial viability, and cutting-edge technology. As part of its commitment to redefining industrial productivity, Kepler has begun pre-sales for the K2, available in multiple configurations and designed specifically for various industrial needs. This marks not only a significant commercialization milestone for Kepler but also a step toward widespread adoption of robotics in sectors requiring high adaptability and efficiency.
As Kepler Robotics continues to lead the way in advancing humanoid robotics technology, the K2 'Bumblebee' is poised to make a lasting impact across multiple industries, paving the way for a future where intelligent robots seamlessly enhance human capabilities in everyday work environments.
Topics Consumer Technology）
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