China Deploys First Full-Space Robot Cluster in Metro System With Humanoids, Robot Dogs, and Drones

Hefei's metro network in eastern China deployed what officials call the country's first full-space 'robot cluster' for rail transit — an integrated system spanning stations, trains, and underground infrastructure. Humanoid robots assist passengers with directions and transfer information at station level, four-legged robot dogs patrol platforms monitoring safety conditions, and drones scan tunnels overhead. In maintenance trenches beneath trains, autonomous inspection robots use high-definition cameras and ultrasonic sensors to scan wheels, bolts, and mechanical components, flagging cracks or abnormalities instantly. The system significantly reduces inspection times that would otherwise take hours manually. Officials emphasized the robots are meant to support, not replace, human staff. Future plans include integrating large AI models to give the robot dogs and drones a centralized 'brain' for more accurate identification and response to abnormal situations.