Waseda, tmsuk, Murata & SRE form Kyoto humanoid group

Waseda University teamed up with tmsuk Corporation, Murata Manufacturing Co., Ltd., and SRE Holdings Co., Ltd. jointly announced the Kyoto Humanoid Association (KyoHA). This new group aims to boost Japan’s humanoid robotics industry. KyoHA aims to boost Japan’s top-notch hardware tech. This will strengthen local development and improve the country’s global edge in humanoid robotics.

Background of the Establishment

Humanoid robotics has changed a lot, thanks to big tech companies in the U.S. and innovators in China. This shift has altered the competitive scene. Japan, once a leader in robotics, now must work to reclaim its tech status.

The demand for advanced robotics is rising in the U.S. This is due to problems like labor shortages and more frequent natural disasters. Humanoid robots can work in tough and dangerous places. They’re viewed as a key solution to these challenges.

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Japan’s hardware-focused development systems still face fragmentation. This happens even with improvements in AI and software. KyoHA comes from Kyoto, a city known for high-precision manufacturing. It aims to bring together academic and industrial players. Their mission is to guide the next generation of humanoid robots. They aim to do this through teamwork across the country.

Mission and Core Activities

KyoHA’s initiatives will focus on five key areas:

1. KyoHA will build a strong network between industry and academia. This network will focus on hardware. It includes precision parts, actuators, sensors, and hydraulic controls. The goal is to encourage collaboration in Japan’s advanced manufacturing sector.
2. Phase 1: Development of Disaster Response Humanoids The initial focus will be on developing humanoid robots capable of life-saving operations in disaster zones such as landslides and collapsed buildings. These robots will meet important social needs. They will also test new technologies.
3. Creating a Kyoto-Centric Supply Chain: KyoHA is rethinking the whole domestic supply chain. This includes prototyping, manufacturing, testing, and deployment. The goal is to develop a sustainable industrial base centered in Kyoto.
4. Driving Economic Impact and Industrial Competitiveness: Humanoid robots are likely to create waves in many industries. They will boost innovation and enhance Japan’s industrial strength at home and abroad.
5. Integrating Software and AI for Intelligent Robotics: KyoHA focuses on blending hardware with AI and control software. This approach seeks to create humanoid robots. These robots will act smartly and adjust to changing environments.

Future Plans and Founding Members

KyoHA will be formally established as a general incorporated association in 2025. The detailed action plans for the first phase of development and deployment will be released in fiscal year 2026.

The founding members of the initiative include:

• Waseda University
• tmsuk Corporation
• Murata Manufacturing Co., Ltd.
• SRE Holdings Co., Ltd.

Also, we are talking to different organizations and companies about joining the initiative. KyoHA is the “Japan Alliance for Humanoids.” It connects academia and industry. This national platform invites everyone to join. Together, we will shape the future of humanoid robotics.