In Shanghai, robotic legs moved a historic block weighing 7,500 tons

A unique operation to return historic Shikumen-style buildings to their original location has been completed in Shanghai. The complex weighing 7,500 tons was moved with the help of 432 robotic supports capable of slowly and accurately moving the structures at a speed of up to 10 meters per day. The work lasted from May 19 for more than two weeks.

Originally, the buildings were temporarily shifted to construct underground infrastructure under the Huayanli Cultural and Business Complex. Shikumen architecture, which has characterized Shanghai since the 19th century, combines Chinese and Western elements and requires careful handling.

During the movement, specialists monitored possible deformations in real time and ensured that the forces were evenly distributed. Digital modeling and scanning technologies were used to create an accurate 3D map of the structures.

Remote-controlled mobile robots played a key role. They are able to navigate narrow spaces, including doorways and corridors, and carry out foundation work without destroying the historic structure.

Engineers have also developed robotic earthmoving robots with folding arms that use deep learning algorithms to recognize clay and solid objects while working in spaces less than 1.2 meters wide.