Robots at the International Robot Exhibition 2007 in Tokyo

Purpose - The purpose of this paper is to review the iREX2007, the International Robot Exhibition 2007 held in Tokyo, Japan, with emphasis on new trends in the Japanese robot industry. Design/methodology/approach - The paper is based on in-depth interviews with exhibitors and also major users in attendance at the show. Findings - The Japanese manufacturing industries that shifted their plants and established production technologies overseas are now coming back and constructing new plants in Japan. For these plants they are now trying to re-build a new manufacturing system that will enable Japan to regain global competency. Many exhibits of robots clearly demonstrated how robotics is responding to the needs. Practical implications - Robot builders need to respond to new demands from users. Robot users will need to rethink robots as a valuable tool for solving new requirements. Originality/value - The paper provides information on the trend of the robot industry, reflecting new requirements from society.