Tsubame Industries, bearing a striking resemblance to the iconic “Mobile Suit Gundam” from Japan’s beloved anime series. This futuristic mechanical marvel comes with a hefty price tag of $3 million. Known as ARCHAX, named after the prehistoric bird-like dinosaur archaeopteryx, this impressive creation is equipped with cockpit monitors that receive real-time images from exterior cameras. These visuals enable the operator to manipulate its arms and hands using joysticks from within the robot’s torso.
This 3.5-ton behemoth boasts two operational modes: an upright “robot mode” and a versatile “vehicle mode” that allows it to cruise at speeds of up to 10 kilometers (approximately 6 miles) per hour.
The mastermind behind this ambitious project is Ryo Yoshida, a 25-year-old entrepreneur and the CEO of Tsubame Industries. He envisioned a product that would encapsulate the essence of Japan’s strengths in animation, gaming, robotics, and automobiles, all rolled into one spectacular creation. “Japan is very good at animation, games, robots, and automobiles, so I thought it would be great if I could create a product that compressed all these elements into one,” explained Yoshida. His aim is to craft a symbol that proudly represents Japan on the global stage.
The initial plan entails the construction and sale of five of these awe-inspiring robots, catering to the affluent enthusiasts of robotic marvels. However, Yoshida harbors dreams that extend far beyond catering to hobbyists. He envisions a future where ARCHAX could be utilized for disaster relief efforts or even find applications within the space industry.
Robotics at its Highest:
Yoshida’s passion for manufacturing traces its roots back to his formative years when he learned the art of welding at his grandfather’s ironworks. This early exposure ignited his entrepreneurial spirit, eventually leading him to establish a company specializing in myoelectric prosthetic hands. His commitment to preserving Japan’s competitive edge in the manufacturing sector fuels his drive to keep the tradition alive. In his own words, “I hope to learn from previous generations and carry on the tradition.”
Japan start-up develops ‘Gundam’-like robot | ARCHAX
The ARCHAX robot is set to make its grand debut at the Japan Mobility Show later this month, and with its remarkable blend of innovation, entertainment, and the sheer “wow” factor, it is poised to leave an indelible mark in both the world of robotics and popular culture. ARCHAX’s visual resemblance to the iconic Mobile Suit Gundam, a beloved cultural icon in Japan and around the world, adds an extra layer of appeal. The Gundam franchise has long captivated audiences with its narratives of colossal mechanized suits, and now, with ARCHAX, that fantasy is one step closer to becoming reality. It’s a fusion of pop culture and cutting-edge technology that speaks to the imagination of enthusiasts globally.
