Would you buy a real Gundam robot for just US$3 million?

A Japanese tech startup has created a humanoid robot that bears a striking resemblance to a Gundam robot. The robot, named ARCHAX, stands at a height of 4.5 meters and weighs 3.5 tons. It is equipped with a cockpit that allows humans to operate it, using a monitor that displays live camera footage from the robot’s exterior. The ARCHAX robot has two modes: an upright robot mode and a vehicle mode, which can reach speeds of up to 10km/h. The startup, Tsubame Industry, plans to unveil the robot at the Japan Mobility Expo.

According to the CEO of Tsubame Industry, Ryo Yoshida, the idea behind ARCHAX was to create a product that combines elements of animation, games, robots, and cars. While the initial target market for the robot is Gundam and anime enthusiasts, Yoshida also envisions it being used for disaster relief efforts or in the space industry.

The Gundam robot is not the only one of its kind in Japan. The most famous Gundam robot can be found at the Gundam factory in Yokohama. This enormous robot stands at a height of 60 feet and weighs over 25 tons. It can walk, kneel, and holds the Guinness World Record for being the largest robot of its kind.

The robotics industry in Japan is highly advanced, with the country being a major producer and designer of industrial robots. In 2022, Japanese manufacturers received orders worth US$7.35 billion for industrial robots, a 1.6% increase from the previous year. Japan also has a higher density of robots in the manufacturing sector compared to the US, with 631 robots for every 10,000 people in 2021, as opposed to 274 robots in the US.

While the US has also attempted to develop similar robots to the Gundam, the focus has been more on entertainment rather than practical applications. However, advancements in robotics and generative AI indicate that fully automated robots controlled by humans could become a reality in the future.

In conclusion, the creation of a Gundam-like humanoid robot by a Japanese tech startup showcases the country’s expertise in robotics. With ARCHAX, enthusiasts now have the opportunity to own and operate their own Gundam robot. The development of such robots highlights the potential for robotics to contribute to various industries, including disaster relief and space exploration.

FAQ:

1. How much does the ARCHAX robot cost?
The ARCHAX robot is priced at US$3 million.

2. How tall is the ARCHAX robot?
The ARCHAX robot stands at a height of 4.5 meters.

3. Can humans operate the ARCHAX robot?
Yes, the ARCHAX robot has a cockpit that allows humans to operate it.

4. What modes does the ARCHAX robot have?
The ARCHAX robot has two modes: an upright robot mode and a vehicle mode.

5. Can the ARCHAX robot be used for disaster relief or in the space industry?
Yes, the CEO of Tsubame Industry hopes that the ARCHAX robot can be used for such purposes in the future.

6. Are there other Gundam robots in Japan?
Yes, the most famous Gundam robot can be found at the Gundam factory in Yokohama.

7. How advanced is Japan’s robotics industry?
Japan is a major producer and designer of industrial robots, with advanced capabilities in automation and robotics.

8. How does Japan’s robotics industry compare to the US?
Japan has a higher density of robots in the manufacturing sector compared to the US. In 2021, Japan had 631 robots for every 10,000 people, while the US had 274 robots.

9. Can other countries develop similar robots to the Gundam?
Yes, other countries have attempted to develop similar robots, but Japan remains at the forefront of robotic technology.

10. What are the potential applications of humanoid robots like the ARCHAX?
Humanoid robots like the ARCHAX have the potential to be used in various industries, including entertainment, disaster relief, and space exploration.