Tokyo-based start-up Tsubame Industries has developed a 4.5-meter-tall robot named ARCHAX, inspired by the popular Japanese animation series “Mobile Suit Gundam.” The robot, priced at $3 million, features cockpit monitors that receive live images from external cameras, allowing the operator to control its movements using joysticks from inside its torso. The 3.5-ton robot has two modes: a vertical “robot mode” and a “vehicle mode” that can reach speeds of up to 10 km/h.
Ryo Yoshida, the 25-year-old CEO of Tsubame Industries, aimed to combine elements of Japan’s expertise in animation, games, robots, and automobiles into a single product. While initially targeting wealthy robot enthusiasts, Yoshida hopes that the ARCHAX robot could eventually be used in disaster relief efforts or the space industry. Yoshida’s interest in manufacturing began early in life, learning welding skills at his grandfather’s ironworks before starting a company that produces prosthetic hands. He aims to preserve Japan’s competitive edge in manufacturing.
The ARCHAX robot will be showcased at the Japan Mobility Show, and Yoshida plans to build and sell five units. By creating a robot that embodies Japanese culture and craftsmanship, Yoshida wants to showcase Japan’s unique strengths and traditions in various industries. The robot’s potential for usefulness in disaster relief and space exploration aligns with Tsubame Industries’ long-term goals. Yoshida’s passion for manufacturing and commitment to carrying on Japan’s manufacturing legacy underline his dedication to innovation and progress.
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