China Tests Humanoid Robots to Direct Traffic in Heavy Rain

Commuters braving heavy downpours in eastern China encountered an unexpected crossing guard: a waterproof humanoid robot directing traffic.

DEEP Robotics conducted field trials of its DR02 humanoid robots in early October across Xihu District, Hangzhou, China, where persistent rain and heavy tourist traffic placed additional demands on local traffic management.

The robots were tested at busy intersections, including Zheda Road and West Wenyi Road, as well as tourist destinations such as Xixi National Wetland Park. The trials examined whether humanoid robots could assist with traffic direction, pedestrian safety and visitor information in crowded public spaces.

The DR02 features IP66-rated protection against dust and water, which the company tested under sustained rainfall. Its environmental perception and motion-control systems allow it to navigate around pedestrians and vehicles and adjust its position and hand signals while directing traffic.

However, the trials were presented as product testing rather than evidence of a completed commercial...

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