Xiaoyuan, a wheel-legged guide robot for people with visual impairments. [Photo/Hangzhou News]

China's first wheel-legged guide robot for people with visual impairments, named Xiaoyuan, is attracting attention at the 2026 World Robot Conference in Beijing.

Developed by Hangzhou Yuanshan Zhixing Technology under the Zhiyuan Research Institute of China North Industries Group, Xiaoyuan combines wheels with four legs, moves quietly and efficiently on flat ground, and switches to four-legged mode to climb stairs.

The robot can also detect suspended obstacles, such as low branches and scaffolding, and slow down or change direction. Its outdoor positioning error is within 30 centimeters, while its obstacle-avoidance success rate reaches at least 99 percent indoors and 96 percent outdoors.

Quiet operation is another key feature. As visually impaired people rely heavily on sound to perceive their surroundings, the wheeled-legged design helps reduce noise and minimize interference with their auditory perception.

At the exhibition, two visually impaired visitors tested Xiaoyuan as it guided them through simulated stairs and obstacle courses, demonstrating its potential to support more independent travel in daily life.

Beyond navigation, Xiaoyuan connects with rehabilitation services, accessible map updates, and a remote volunteer assistance platform. Zhiyuan Research Institute has also signed strategic cooperation agreements with rehabilitation federations in Zhejiang and Inner Mongolia autonomous region to explore applications in subway stations, shopping malls, and other public spaces.