Japanese enthusiasts make sci-fi staple `mecha` robot a reality
Baku, May 12 (AZERTAC). The Suidobashi Heavy Industry (a group of robot enthusiasts) is in the process of building a 3.8 metre tall `mech robot`.
But the mecha here, named Vaudeville, is not the work of a high-powered robotics lab, or a model built for a construction firm or space company - it is instead the dedicated work of a group of hobbyiests, bringing their childhood movie-based dreams to life.
And if the Suidobashi Heavy Industry, as the group of enthusiasts call themselves, they get this first model up and running, they hope to sell mechas to the world at large - with optional water-pistols.
The clever 4,500kg project uses off-the-shelf hardware and software to make the mecha powerful.
Sitting in the pilot`s chair, an Xbox Kinect motion-tracking system tracks the head and body movements to make sure the mecha follows the human moves, and a smartphone to interpret movements and send commands to the mecha`s muscles.
Mechas are popular because they assist humans, helping us lift heavy objects as if they were light-weight, and - in the world
Once this mecha has been tweaked and perfected, future models may be offered for sale, with customised paintjobs.
The makers also suggest accessories such as a water-pistol so mecha can be a fireman, or a mop to help with the cleaning.
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