Komatsu Global unveiled an autonomous underwater bulldozer with an all-electric powertrain at CES 2025 this past week. This isn’t just a prototype either, as several are already in use building showcases for Expo 2025 in Osaka, Kansai, Japan.
Photo credit: Kyoto University
JAXA’s (Japanese Aerospace Exploration Agency) LignoSat was successfully deployed from the International Space Station in December 2024. Researchers are using it to investigate the use of wood in space and the findings could one day offer a more sustainable alternative to conventional satellites.
Osaka University researchers, led by Hisashi Ishihara, have developed a robotic child capable of demonstrating lifelike facial expressions, albeit somewhat sleepy ones. More specifically, the team worked on dynamic facial expression synthesis technology using “waveform movements,” which represents various gestures that constitute facial movements.
Universal Studio Japan’s new Donkey Kong Country expansion at Super Nintendo World has opened to the public, and aside from all of the new merchandise as well as food, the main attraction is most certainly Mine Cart Madness.
Legendary video game designer Shigeru Miyamoto provides us with a first look at the new Donkey Kong Country Land in Super Nintendo World at Universal Studios Japan. Slated to open on December 11, 2024, guests will not only be able to enjoy several new attractions, but also themed food offerings as well, including the DK Wild Hot Dog.
Space fans love the Shanghai Astronomy Museum, while gamers will probably want to add the Nintendo Museum in Kyoto, Japan on their must visit places. Exhibits include side-by-side displays of products released by Nintendo throughout the company’s history, including many rare and unreleased items.
West Japan Railway has begun using a giant humanoid robot for line maintenance, tree trimming, and even painting metal frames. It does require a human operator to sit in a cockpit on the truck, using the robot’s eyes via cameras for visuals while operating its powerful limbs and hands remotely.
