China's scientists have built a 1.58-meter and 76-kilogram robot which can play "Taiji," or "taichi", the traditional Chinese form of shadow boxing, state media said Sunday.

The robot named "BHR-1" passed appraisal Saturday as a major project for the Beijing University of Science and Engineering under China's High and New Technology Research and Development Program, the official Xinhua news agency said.

"BHR-1" had 32 joints from head to foot which made it move properly, said Professor Li Kejie, chief scientist in charge of the project at the university.

It can walk with 0.33 meter steps at a speed of one kilometer per hour, he said.

The robot is able to walk and play Taiji and can also sense changing ground levels and balance itself, Li said.

Li added that this type of robot would be able to take over some dangerous jobs from humans.

(China Daily December 30, 2002)