Japanese robots await call to action

April 25, 2011 | Source: Japan Times
Japanese Robot

Tmsuk rescue robot T-53 can lift objects as heavy as 100 kg. (credit: Tmsuk Co.)

Japanese robots designed for heavy lifting and data collection are ready for deployment at damaged reactor buildings of the Fukushima No.1 nuclear power station.

U.S.-made iRobot PackBots have already done radiation and temperature readings and acquired visual images there.

Tmsuk Co. designed its T-53 Enryu (rescue dragon) remote-controlled rescue robots to engage in rescue work. They have two arms that can lift objects weighing up to 100 kg.