The AI robot Cruzr by Jinyexuan Technology interacts with passengers at Chongqing North Railway Station
On March 6th, 2020, there was a curious addition to the departure hall of Chongqing North Railway Station. A hi-tech software developer in Chongqing had donated a pair of identical robots by the name of ‘Cruzr’ for train passengers. Their special assignment is to answer questions and provide advice about COVID-19.
Jinyexuan Technology modified existing software during the outbreak to help Cruzr meet the needs of epidemic control. Users can attract the robot's attention with a simple 'Ni hao! Ke-lu-ze,' then ask verbally for the latest developments, figures, and advice on preventative measures. For example, when asked for the latest news on COVID-19, Cruzr can promptly display and announce the answer; 'As of March 6th, 2020, there have been 58 confirmed cases in Chongqing ....'
These amiable looking robots stand around four feet high, have the main body set upon a ground wheel system, and with a large circular head that features an interactive screen. There are also two robotic arms that protrude either side, and which perform physical tasks such as the delivery of food items, disposal of used face masks, or the spraying of disinfectant.
Cruzr also has a few surprises up its sleeve. When iChongqing visited the software developer recently, we were entertained on-demand to a convincing folk dance routine along with musical accompaniment! Once the technical director Mr. Jie Zhang demonstrated these functions, I was curious to test Cruzr on some more probing questions. I began with that day's weather conditions, a simple multiplication task, and then something deeper and philosophical.
'What is the meaning of life?' I asked inquisitively, in expectation Cruzr would either fail to respond or just produce some irrelevant statement. To my pleasant surprise, a passable answer actually came my way!
Cruzr explained in Chinese that we should spend our lives with somebody we love!' It turns out the robot is quite an old romantic!
When all is said and done, the fundamental purpose of the 300 plus active robots in Chongqing are to provide useful information about COVID-19 and perform basic tasks in order to help prevent further spread of the virus. As a result, service workers in locations such as transport facilities and hospitals experience less burden from public inquiries, and a lower risk of cross-infection thanks to reduced contact with potential carriers.
iChongqing reporter James takes a group photograph with Cruzr and the staff of Jinyexuan Technology
Jinyexuan Technology is a developer of smart robotics software in the Liangjiang New Zone. The company was only founded in 2017 but has seen remarkable growth in the space of just three years. The company director Mr. Jianming Huang explained how the choice of location stemmed not only from advantageous financial policy and incentives for the high tech industry but also a platform for accessing specialist knowledge.
Currently, their main areas of focus are research and development, software, sales, technical support and maintenance. In the case of their AI robot Cruzr, Jinyexuan is responsible in all fields, with the manufacturing process itself the only exception.
In an interview with iChongqing, director Mr. Jianming Huang described a further company activity worthy of special note. In order to foster interest and enthusiasm in robotics among budding technicians, Jinyexuan internally manages a club that regularly organizes a variety of tech competitions. In addition to inspiring a new generation of technicians, these activities offer valuable opportunities to gain experience, receive training, and improve analytic skills.
iChongqing reporter James interviews Jinyexuan CEO, Mr. Jianming Huang, at company headquarters in the Liangjiang New Zone
Later, we discussed the wider applications of Jinyexuan products with marketing director Mr. Qiulin Wang. He not only introduced the main functions of the AI robot Cruzr in epidemic control, but also two more products the company has modified specifically to assist with the COVID-19 outbreak.
One is a fleet of drones put at the disposal of government departments. These are able to detect body temperature by thermal imaging and can deliver verbal messages aimed at crowds of people. Alternatively, another product offers temperature screening, facial recognition, and automated warnings, but through a fixed ground system more suitable to indoor environments.
Recently, the sudden onset of COVID-19 meant there was simply no time to redevelop a robotics software package. Instead, they promptly modified existing products to offer additional functions to play a role in epidemic prevention. This also means there is no risk of Cruzr becoming obsolete once the outbreak reaches a conclusion, as it will continue to perform a variety of useful tasks.
At Chongqing North Railway Station, for example, the AI robot will help prevent future epidemics by providing information on health safety, advice on protective measures, and conducting patrols within a demarcated indoor environment. On top of this, passengers will enjoy the benefits of convenient ticket inquiries, timetables, directions and building layouts within any large facility.
Cruzr performs a Chinese folk dance for iChongqing reporters at Jinyexuan Technology headquarters
As was the case for most industries, the outbreak came both harsh and unexpected, requiring everybody within the company to pull together. Nevertheless, while there were some adjustments in work practices, especially in terms of hygiene precautions, Jinyexuan employees continued to work during the crisis.
Interestingly then, the biggest effect was not a cessation of work, but rather a change in focus. It was during this challenging time that Jinyexuan introduced the above systems to identify and measure the body temperature, in addition to the modified functions that Cruzr offers. The remaining time and energy of staff were invested in the company's online activities, such as cloud meetings for training, teaching, and learning. By the end, director Huang expressed his gratitude and satisfaction at how the collective efforts of staff minimized the impacts on business.
As our visit drew to a conclusion, director Huang offered a last philosophical word on the outbreak, and its current spread throughout the world. He told how in light of the fast global spread of COVID-19, he has profoundly understood the meaning of our common destiny. That is, providing humanity comes together in the face of the outbreak, we can ultimately overcome this pandemic, and our victory will go down in the annals of history.
Cloudwalk produces health screening technology for airports, companies and residential complexes
Welinkirt produces smart UV disinfection robots to fight against the epidemic
By continuing to browse our site you agree to our use of cookies, revised Privacy Policy and Terms of Use. You can change your cookie settings through your browser.
For any inquiries, please email service@ichongqing.info