The national 863 program Research and Development for Bio-Inspired Science and Technology of Intelligent Robots, which was led by professor Xu Guanghua of XJTU School of Mechanical Engineering, was initiated.

Bio-Inspired Science and Technology of Intelligent Robots is the only frontier research project set up by the country in the field of robotics during the Twelfth Five Year Plan. The program concentrates on studies of key bio-inspired technologies of intelligent robots in an effort to fulfill the spiritual likeness of robots from physical likeness and provide technical support for future unmanned tank, intelligent factory and rehabilitation service of aging society etc.

The program leader professor Xu Guanghua gave an overview regarding research background, program goal, research plan, research assignment, budget and organization etc. The leaders of sub-programs introduced the research plan and expected outcome on bionic eyes, brain-muscle perception, and artificial muscle.