West Japan Railway has unveiled a new humanoid robot employee, set to start working this month. The robot, which has basic features and glowing eyes, is mounted on a truck that can travel on railway tracks. Its main tasks will include trimming tree branches and painting metal frames.
This innovative approach is designed to tackle the issue of Japan’s aging workforce and improve safety by reducing the risk of accidents. The robot is part of the company’s efforts to maintain infrastructure efficiently amid a shortage of labor.
Company president Kazuaki Hasegawa emphasized that this initiative could significantly change the way infrastructure maintenance is carried out.
By using robots for such tasks, West Japan Railway hopes to ensure that maintenance work is done more safely and effectively. This move also reflects a broader trend towards automation and the use of advanced technology in addressing workforce challenges in Japan.
