When it comes to robots, no-one does it better than the Japanese. In Japan, no-one does it better than Tmsuk. Their new creation, the T-53 service robot, represents a massive breakthrough in rescue technology.

Tmsuk have been inventing new robots since 1993, with an agenda to "create a safe and comfortable society in which people and robots can co-exist." Since then they have produced a huge range of helpful machines, from the remote controlled receptionist to the home utility triceratops. Now they have turned their attention to disaster support.

Tmsuk's T-34 net throwing robot

The T-53 is a more advanced, mobile version of the T-52, a six ton monster capable of lifting cars out of ditches and tearing doors off with its 10ft long arms. The T-53 was first used publicly in the aftermath of the March earthquakes in Niigata. Created in collaboration with the Japanese fire department, the machines are expected to go into widespread use once further tests have been made. They have already been passed as legal road-going vehicles.

The T-53 in Action

Both the T-52 and T-53 are operated by remote ‘Waldo' technology - a human in a different location making movements with mechanical arms, which are then replicated by the robot. Thus far Tmsuk projects have been hamstrung by the operating costs of their inventions (such as the receptionist bot), which are often more than would be incurred by using manpower alone. But with the T-53 they have a device more efficient than 20 men and one that is capable of saving lives.

Get wised up to Tmsuk's technological prowess here.