On December 21st, in Guangzhou Science City, the independently developed MR (Mixed Reality) teleoperated live-line operating robot "Wukong" by the Southern Power Grid's Guangzhou Power Supply Bureau successfully completed its inaugural on-site live-line connection operation. This achievement marks a significant advancement toward safer, more reliable, and efficient machine-assisted live-line operations.
The first MR teleoperated live-line operating robot, "Wukong."
Traditional live-line operations require complex protective measures, extensive manpower, and time-consuming processes. Moreover, they are often constrained by factors such as weather, terrain, and narrow operating spaces, occasionally necessitating short power outages.
Inspired by surgical robots, the "Wukong" robot project team, after three years of effort, extensive on-site debugging, high-voltage insulation testing and electromagnetic interference testing, unveiled the nation’s first MR teleoperated live-line operating robot. "Wukong" boasts high reliability, dexterity, and adaptability to various operating scenarios.
The team explained, "With force feedback technology, operators can control 'Wukong' from 'miles away', experiencing an immersive control feel. They can perceive the contact situation between the robotic arm and equipment, conductors, and obstacles. This not only enables 'remote presence' but also achieves seamless integration of ground and aerial operations and of people and the robot, ensuring the absolute safety of operators."
Precise operation of "Wukong" by personnel in the control room.
It is reported that "Wukong" holds 103 core patents, with four overseas patents already granted, and six accepted through the Patent Cooperation Treaty (PCT). Recently, the project secured the gold prize in the 2023 Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area High-Value Patent Portfolio Competition with the highest expert rating. Previously, the project received the Geneva International Invention Award and was recognized by the Guangdong Mechanical Industry Association as internationally leading.
Looking ahead, the "Wukong" robot team plans to strengthen key technological development and integrate innovation throughout the entire chain. They aim to expand application scenarios, promote the application to over 90% of live-line operating situations, increase operational efficiency by over 50%, and strive to establish a pioneering hub for intelligent live-line operations technology.
"Wukong" performing live-line work at a height of 15 meters.