Scientists make a robotic arm that can lift over 90 kg

It's no more a science fiction but a reality -- a powerful robotic arm, which when attached to an operator, can now enable one to lift over 90 kgs with ease.

Japanese scientists at Kyoto-based Activelink Company, a unit owned and financed by electronics giant Panasonic, have created the exo-skeleton arm which is known as the Dual-Arm Power Amplification Robot.

Driven by 18 electromagnetic motors with direct force feedback, the operator can control the arm's movements, including performing delicate manoeuvres, leading British newspaper The Daily Telegraph reported.

In fact, the scientists, led by Go Shirogauchi, has been working on the project since 2003 and hope to have the device, which is made of an aluminium alloy, ready to go into practical use by 2015.

"The prime use for the arm will be in disaster zones, where wheeled vehicles are unable to operate but heavy weights need to be moved," Shirogauchi was quoted as saying.

And, when completed, the arm will serve as a common platform that will have a wide range of interchangeable parts that can easily be installed. Other potential applications include in warehouses and on construction sites.

However, the only drawback with the robotic machine at present is its weight -- about 200 kg -- which makes it difficult to operate without support and also limits its applications.

The scientists are currently working to reduce the weight of the unit, which will also make it safer for the operator. The completed arm will cost 200,000 pounds.