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A South Korean robotics company just built a real Gundam
We won't have to wait much longer for our Robotech future. South Korean robotics manufacturer Hankook Mirae Technology debuted its first prototype piloted mech over the weekend. Say hello to the Method-2.
Panasonic's Power Loader Light slims down, stays out of fights with aliens
Panasonic's full-size Power Loader exoskeleton certainly has its place, but there are times when giant freaking robots arms might be considered overkill. Thankfully, Panasonic (or more specifically, its Activelink subsidiary) has considered such situations, and has now come out with its streamlined Power Loader Light (or PLL). As you can see, this model eschews the robot arms altogether, but it makes use of the same direct force feedback system that's able to predict your leg movements and increase your leg strength by up 40 kilograms. Of course, even the Light version is still a bit out of reach for everyday use -- it will initially cost around $223,000, but Panasonic is offering a grant program to potential developers that would cut the price in half.
Video: Power Loader has giant freaking robot arms!
We've seen our fair share of useful but ugly and pretty but pointless robotic concoctions, but nothing quite like this. The Power Loader suit, which was directly inspired by the mech outfits in Aliens, is in our humble opinion an exoskeleton done right. With two massive protruding arms, capable of lifting 220 pounds without a sweat, direct force feedback for intuitive control, and even powered legs, we're inclined to believe what we're seeing here is a tiny glimpse of the awesome mech-dominated future we've been waiting so long for. Also known as the Dual-Arm Power Amplification Robot, this is produced by Activelink, a Panasonic subsidiary, and you might be shocked to discover that there are plans afoot to commercialize it by 2015. Entrancing video after the break.
