Torobo
Torobo is a torque-controlled humanoid robot designed for advanced AI and robotics research, emphasizing precision manipulation and safe human interaction. Standing 166 cm tall with dual 7-axis arms, a 3-axis waist, 3-axis neck, and 4-axis omnidirectional mobile base, it offers human-like range of motion for complex tasks like hammering, sawing, and table wiping. High-precision torque sensors in all arm and waist joints enable impedance control, force limiting, and collision detection, allowing delicate operations alongside heavy lifting up to 20 kg. Powered by ROS for trajectory planning and simulation in Gazebo or MuJoCo, Torobo supports modular sensor integration including cameras and LiDAR. Its robust build suits industrial, academic, and assistive applications, particularly Japan's aging population initiatives, with features like ZMP-based balance and real-time compliance for collaborative environments.
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Tokyo Robotics Torobo Demonstrates Precision Tasks at Tokyo Security Show March 2026
Tokyo Robotics showcased the Torobo humanoid robot at the Tokyo Security Show in March 2026, where it executed precision manipulation tasks like delicate package handling and tool deployment in simulated security scenarios. This demonstration highlighted Torobo's ability to navigate crowded environments while performing force-sensitive operations, drawing attention from industrial security firms seeking reliable automation. The event underscored how Torobo transforms routine patrols into intelligent, interactive duties, addressing labor shortages in high-stakes settings. Attendees witnessed real-time adaptability, positioning the robot as a deployable asset for immediate field trials.
One Robot
Infinite Possibilities
One Robot
Infinite Possibilities
TP-01 by Raydiculous
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Frequently Asked Questions
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Q1. What is Torobo, and what problem is it designed to solve?
Torobo is a humanoid research robot developed by Tokyo Robotics, standing 166 cm tall and weighing 160 kg. It addresses the need for collaborative manipulation systems capable of performing complex tasks in human-centered environments, particularly relevant to Japan's aging population and labor shortages. The platform is designed for precision assembly, material handling, and physical interaction tasks requiring safe force control.
Q2. What are the main capabilities and key features of Torobo?
Torobo features dual 7-axis arms with payload capacity of 7–8 kg under worst-case postures and up to 20 kg at maximum force, a 3-axis waist, 3-axis neck, and 4-axis omnidirectional mobile base providing 24 degrees of freedom. Torque sensors at all arm and waist joints enable impedance control for safe contact. The robot supports ROS-based software with MoveIt! trajectory planning, Cartesian impedance control, and self-interference detection. Demonstrated capabilities include autonomous table wiping, nail hammering, and wood sawing using Deep Predictive Learning.
Q3. Who is Torobo built for, and which industries can benefit from it?
Torobo targets research institutions, industrial automation facilities, and collaborative manufacturing environments. Primary applications include precision assembly, cooking operations, material handling, and human-robot interaction research. The platform serves academic researchers and industrial partners exploring robotic solutions for tasks traditionally performed by human workers in structured environments.
Q4. Is Torobo a commercial product or still a research prototype?
As of March 2026, Torobo remains classified as a prototype platform. According to Tokyo Robotics, the company announced plans to launch a new version in Japan by March 2025, with international release targeted for later in 2025. The robot is positioned primarily for research and early commercial deployments rather than mass-market availability.
Q5. Is Torobo currently available for purchase, and when is it expected to ship?
Torobo's commercial availability status remains limited as of early 2026. Tokyo Robotics announced plans for domestic Japanese availability in 2025 with subsequent international expansion. Specific shipping timelines and pricing depend on distributor partnerships and regional deployment schedules, which the manufacturer has not publicly detailed.
Q6. How does Torobo actually work in real-world environments?
Torobo operates through a ROS-based software stack supporting simulation in Gazebo and MuJoCo before real-world deployment. The robot uses torque feedback from joint sensors to execute force-controlled tasks, with ZMP-based fall prevention and interference detection safety stops. Optional sensor heads include ToF depth cameras, fisheye cameras, wide-angle stereo cameras, and microphones for environmental perception and task execution in structured industrial or research settings.
Q7. When was Torobo announced or officially launched?
Torobo was unveiled as a research platform by Tokyo Robotics, with detailed specifications and capabilities documented in 2024. The robot is part of Japan's Moonshot R&D program, which focuses on developing robotic systems to address demographic challenges. Commercial availability timelines were announced for 2025 onward, though specific launch dates have not been publicly confirmed.
Q8. How is Torobo different from other robots in the same category?
Torobo's distinguishing feature is comprehensive torque sensing across all arm and waist joints, enabling high-performance impedance and force control rarely implemented in humanoid platforms. This architecture supports safe physical interaction with humans and objects. The robot's human-proportional dimensions (166 cm height, 680 mm reach) combined with 24 degrees of freedom allow operation in human-designed workspaces. Integration with advanced simulation environments and ROS compatibility differentiates it for research applications.
Q9. Does Torobo require additional development or customization after purchase?
Torobo is designed as a research and development platform, implying that end-users typically engage in software customization and task-specific programming. The ROS-based architecture and support for MoveIt! trajectory planning enable researchers to develop application-specific behaviors. Optional modular sensor heads allow configuration for different perception requirements. The extent of required customization depends on intended application and user expertise.
Q10. What is the future roadmap or planned upgrades for Torobo?
Tokyo Robotics has positioned Torobo within Japan's Moonshot R&D program targeting lifetime robotic assistance for aging populations. The company announced plans for expanded availability from initial Japanese deployments toward international markets. Specific technical upgrades or feature enhancements have not been publicly detailed, though the modular sensor architecture suggests potential for capability expansion through optional components and software improvements.
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