How a 1980s toy robot arm inspired modern robotics
1 min read
Summary
The Armatron was a robotic toy, launched by Tomy in 1981, featuring a fully articulated robotic arm that could pick up small objects using an array of four axes.
The arm was controlled by two joysticks via a geared mechanism that allowed the user to move it in a lifelike way.
Although it did not have any electronic components and was entirely mechanical, its design proved complex and it was much loved by children of all ages.
It has now been rediscovered by a new generation through online communities who have posted videos of it on YouTube, and who have also modified it.
Its designer, retired engineer and toy maker Hiroyuki Watanabe, said he is “happy that there are… people out there who love our products in this way.