Modern robotics has achieved extraordinary precision levels, but let's be honest: There is always room to optimize and accelerate any robot's movements. The Japanese company Yaskawa, with more than a century of history, decided to take on a very particular challenge to test its robotic arm Motoman MH-24: record and imitate the movements of a master of Iaijutsu.
Bushido and the Way of the Warrior
The term Bushido is literally translated as "the way of the warrior," and one doesn't need to go far to find its main references, starting with Miyamoto Musashi and his famous "Book of Five Rings"—still used today by the business world as a reference and inspiration for negotiations. It's no secret that Japanese companies hold deep respect for Bushido and try to absorb as many of its teachings as possible, but this time we have a sort of direct reproduction, with the assistance of a robotic arm.
The Duel: Robot vs. Master
Yaskawa Electric Corporation is dedicated to selling electrical equipment, including motors, switches, and industrial robots like its Motoman MH-24. The second half of the equation is master Isao Machii, a recognized expert in Iaijutsu (technically Iaido, so he's an Iaidoka), who collaborated with his skill and precise movements. The master wore a motion-capture suit, while the robot's software recorded every detail. Afterward, they faced off in four exercises of increasing difficulty, ending with the so-called "Test of a Thousand Cuts," which demands not only precision but also great endurance.
The video has been on YouTube for just a couple of days and has already amassed over two million views. The challenge of "man versus machine" has always captured our attention over the decades, but something unusual arises when we imagine the possibility of a "robot samurai." Who won? The Motoman MH-24 definitely has the advantage of superior precision, but when it comes to speed, the scales seem to tip in the master's favor. I guess the folks at Yaskawa are already working on an improved version of the robot, and we hope they organize another similar challenge when it's ready.
Source: Yaskawa EMECHA on YouTube
