Japan startup unveils 15-foot robot suit for space

exploration
[8E: OWEN, LIVIA, NATALIE, REINER]

A Japanese start-up, Tsubame Industries, has developed a 3.5-ton robot suit

resembling a character from the popular animation series "Mobile Suit
Gundam." Priced at $3 million, the 4.5-meter-tall Archax robot can be used for
space exploration and emergencies. The robot, showcased at the Japan Mobility
Show, has both 'robot mode' and 'vehicle mode,' reaching speeds of 10 km/h.
Tsubame Industries plans to build and sell five units initially, with potential
applications in disaster relief and space exploration.

The 25-year-old CEO, Ryo Yoshida, aims to combine Japan's strengths in

animation, games, robots, and automobiles in this unique product. Yoshida,
inspired by his manufacturing background, aspires to maintain Japan's
competitive edge. He became interested in manufacturing at an early age,
learning to weld at his grandfather's ironworks and later founding a company
producing myoelectric prosthetic hands. Tsubame Industries is part of a growing
trend in startups developing robotic exoskeletons, exploring applications from
assisting delivery workers to military use.

Robotic exoskeletons are gaining traction globally, with the US military unveiling
prototypes that enhance troop capabilities and safety. One such device,
developed by Sarcos Robotics, claims to provide Marines with the strength and
ability of up to 10 troops. The ultimate goal is to offer troops a significant edge
by boosting their capabilities and improving safety and productivity in various
logistics applications. The field of robotic exoskeletons continues to evolve, with
potential transformative impacts on industries ranging from healthcare to
defense.