Huge Humanoid Robots to Help Maintain Japanese Railways

The West Japan Railway Company (JR West) is set to revolutionise railway maintenance by using advanced humanoid machines.

Starting this month, these giant Mecha-style robots will perform various tasks, such as painting overhead structures and removing tree branches obstructing tracks. Capable of lifting up to 40 kilograms and reaching heights of 12 metres, these robots feature nimble arms that can be equipped with a variety of tools.

The employee, operating from an accompanying truck, uses joysticks and Virtual Reality goggles linked to a camera on the robot’s head, allowing for precise and safe operation.

JR West developed this technology with the aid of fellow tech giants, Jinki Ittai and Nippon Signal, to improve worker safety and reduce work-related accidents. Labour shortages, driven by Japan’s ageing population – nearly 29% of the population are over the age of 65 – are a significant factor behind this innovation.

This move marks a significant step in enhancing productivity and safety in railway maintenance, as JR West has set the goal of reducing human involvement in dangerous work situations by 30%, and hopes the successful deployment of these machines will encourage other companies to follow suit.

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