The Biomimetic Robotics Laboratory at MIT has achieved a significant milestone in the realm of table tennis robotics. By integrating a high-performance humanoid robotic arm with state-of-the-art control algorithms, the laboratory has developed a robot system capable of near-human hitting capabilities. This innovative system leverages full-trajectory planning technology, boasting an impressive success rate of 88% and a maximum ball-out speed of 11 meters per second.

The research underscores the efficacy of traditional constrained optimization methods in precision control, while also exploring the potential of combining these methods with reinforcement learning. Looking ahead, the laboratory aims to extend the robotic arm's working range, paving the way for human-robot table tennis matches. This pioneering technology holds promise for various applications, including search and rescue robots and industrial automation.