The robotic industry has become a new strategic industry in Qingdao, a coastal city of eastern Shandong province.

The city plans to build a 1-square-kilometer specialized industrial robotic zone in the high-tech area into a biggest robotic research and industrial cluster in north China over the next three years.

The area has attracted over 30 projects with an investment of over 3 billion yuan (US$483 million).

Cofounded by the team of Cai Hegao of the Chinese Academy of Engineering and Qingdao Norida Intelligent Technology, Qingdao engineering research center of intelligent palletizing delivery system in the industrial zone concentrates on research, development and manufacture of intelligent palletizing robot.

The center's research team of more than 30 people has already applied for 30 patents. Moreover, it is involved in the Chinese National Programs for High Technology Research and Development.

In order to quicken the pace of robotic industrial advance, the municipal government has formulated policies for attracting gifted people to conduct joint research or for the transformation of scientific and technological achievements.

The highest supporting fund of 50 million Yuan will be allocated to a venture project gaining the highest evaluation.

The high-tech zone set up robotic training base in collaboration with training institution including Shandong Light Industry Engineering College, Qingdao Technical College and Qingdao Technicians College.