RIC90 TypeRは着ぐるみを着せてパフォーマンスができるロボットです。。RICとはRobot Inside Characterの頭文字をとっています。

お好きな着ぐるみを着せて、人にもっとも近づいたロボットのパフォーマンスをしてみませんか？

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「触れたい」を叶える新時代ロボット　ハグできる着ぐるみロボットRIC90 TypeR、アールティから登場

English Press information

A hug-able robot RIC90 evolves to the TypeR

RT Corp deepens the interaction between people and robots with hugging and touching.

• The all new RIC90 TypeR is light weight and compact enabling people to carry it alone in a travel suitcase.
• Designed to wear versatile costume and maneuver naturally and hugged by people. Breathing life into a character.
• Liberates human from hardship of wearing costume for extended duration which may cause eat-stroke.
• Revolutionizes entertainment experiences worldwide.

June 6, 2025, Tokyo, Japan – Japan’s pioneer of humanoid robot and physical AI, RT Corporation today announced a new version of RIC90 robot, RIC90 TypeR. With a mission to realize a Life with Robot®, RT Corp. has announced the highly anticipated evolution of its beloved RIC (Robot Inside Character) series of costume robots: the RIC90 TypeR (pronounced “Rick Ninety Type-R”).

Born from the vision of seamlessly integrating the latest robotics technology into human-robot interaction and performance to innovatively evolve human-robot affinity, the RIC90 TypeR combines the warmth of a gentle hug with groundbreaking portability—light enough for a single person to carry effortlessly in a travel suitcase—establishing a new standard for versatile and charming character robots. It holds the potential to revolutionize entertainment experiences worldwide.

In 2009, when safety barriers were considered necessary to protect people from robots performing, RT embarked on the development of the RIC90, capable of hugging and shaking hands, to realize Neko Shop Manager®. （Neko means cat in Japanese.） “Human is an animal with curiosity. People have pure desire to touch a robot—that was a driving force behind the RIC90 development. We aimed to create not just a moving machine, but an entity that could interact with humans and connect with them on an emotional level,” says Yukiko Nakagawa, the representative of RT Corporation.

Photo: RT CEO Nakagawa and a Neko Shop Manager with RIC90 in it

The RIC90 was born to realize the passionate vision of the CEO Nakagawa, who is a robotics engineer herself. The RIC90 TypeR is a new-generation robot that further elevates that vision. Performing in a costume for extended periods is severe physical labor for humans. By replacing this with a robot, it may prevent potential heatstroke and enable long-term operation through battery replacement. By changing costumes, the RIC90 TypeR can portray diverse characters, and its lightweight design and ease of operation establish a new standard for character robots, greatly expanding the possibilities of entertainment.

A dream come true: breathing life into characters

Since the conception of RIC90, its core philosophy has been to create robots that go beyond mere machinery to embody various characters as true performers. “We have always believed that RIC should be a platform capable of transforming into anything—whether a cute mascot, a historical figure, or a whimsical creature” said Nakagawa “The goal was to create a robot that contributes to storytelling and engagement, not just a gimmick, and brings smiles and surprises to audience. RIC90 TypeR is the culmination of this dream, evolved with cutting-edge technology and a deep understanding of performance needs.

RIC90 TypeR: A robot designed for charm and convenience

The RIC90 TypeR is designed to be the ultimate partner for entertainers, event organizers, and creators who want to bring dynamic characters to life. It features a variety of impressive functions that enhance both performance and practicality.

Rich expressiveness and gentle hugs: Like the popular “Cat Shop Manager,” it achieves smooth, natural movements, providing rich expressiveness and captivating performances. Additionally, its design allows for warm, friendly hugs, fostering a heartfelt connection between the character and humans.

Precision and power: Equipped with ROBOTIS X-series motors, it ensures precise, reliable, and smooth movements, enabling a wider range of character expressions.

Durability and Lightweight: The aluminum alloy frame provides durability while maintaining a lightweight structure, ensuring long life and consistent performance.

Perfect Proportions: With the same height as the popular Cat Shop Manager (120 cm including exterior), it is the ideal size for fitting with costumes and interaction on the same scale as humans including children.

Unparalleled portability: Designed for modern mobile entertainers, the RIC90 TypeR can be easily transported and shipped in a standard travel suitcase. It has been optimized for lightweight design, making it easy for even a single woman to carry, with a total weight of 23kg or less including the suitcase, making deployment at various venues surprisingly easy.

Intuitive operation: Operated via a wireless game controller, it can be easily controlled by anyone, allowing performers to focus on the artistic expression of the character.Smart power management: The RIC90 TypeR can be powered off while standing, and its unique design allows it to maintain a natural resting posture when seated after powering off, ensuring a natural transition.

Dynamic sound: With built-in audio speakers, the character can speak, play music, and interact with the audience, further enhancing immersion.

Scalable AI platform: Equipped with a Raspberry Pi, it provides a flexible and scalable platform for custom programming and advanced interactive features.

Sustained performance: It can operate continuously for approximately 30 minutes (depending on activity), accommodating extended engagement periods.

Easy Battery Replacement: The removable battery allows for quick replacement, minimizing downtime during busy operation schedules.

The Essence of RT’s 20 Years of “Physical AI” Expertise

At the core of the RIC90 TypeR lies the expertise in “Physical AI” that RT has been deeply involved in for over 20 years since its founding. Physical AI refers not only to processing information but also to a robot’s ability to move, sense, and interact with the physical world.

RT has been at the forefront of this field, introducing numerous innovative products over the years. CEO Yukiko Nakagawa possesses deep expertise and experience in the field of Physical AI, and her vision has contributed to the realization of the RIC90 TypeR’s concept of a “robot you can interact with.” The solid technology and expertise cultivated over many years form the foundation for the natural, human-like movements and heartwarming interactions that the RIC90 TypeR achieves.

Entertainment is entering a new phase. RIC90 TypeR delivers a variety of exciting experiences.

Imagine a world where mascots exchange warm hugs with visitors, event characters captivate audiences with dynamic routines, and educational characters engage learners through interactive exhibits. The RIC90 TypeR can bring these scenarios to life. From theme parks and corporate events to educational settings and stage productions, this robot is not just a tool but a partner that creates unforgettable experiences by fostering interaction and evoking emotion. Its unparalleled portability and robust design mean that this charming magical character is ready to travel anywhere and instantly please audiences.

RT is dedicated to pushing the boundaries of human-robot interaction. With the RIC90 TypeR, we help creators envision bigger dreams and breathe life into the most imaginative characters.

How to purchase RIC TypeR:

Please refer to the RT Corporation’s official website.

URL: https://rt-net.jp/products/ric90-typer/

About RT Corporation:

RT Corporation is a leading innovator in robotics, dedicated to developing advanced robot solutions that enrich human life and expand the possibilities of technology across various industries, including entertainment, education, and services.

Related Releases

The RIC90 TypeR has been selected as the costume performer for Sufra, the mascot character of the 2027 World Masters Games Kansai. Prior to the event, Sufra will perform at the Osaka Expo Kansai Pavilion on June 7 and 8, 2025. For more details, please contact the Kansai Pavilion.

┃About RT Corporation.

RT Corporation is dedicated to the vision of “Life with Robot” and is challenging cutting-edge technological development in the fields of AI and robotics, including Physical AI and Embodied AI. As a leading innovator in robotics, the company is dedicated to developing advanced robot solutions that enrich people’s lives across various industries, including entertainment, education, and services.

The company is engaged in a wide range of businesses, from advanced engineer development in the AI and service robot fields to in-house development of educational robots and contracted robotics development. CEO Nakagawa has contributed to the promotion of ROS and the development of the robotics industry both domestically and internationally by supporting robot competitions such as the MicroMouse Competition, as well as serving as a board member of Open Robotics (U.S.) and ROSConJP (Japan), which oversee the robot middleware “ROS.” These activities have greatly contributed to the establishment of a technological foundation for the robotics industry in Japan.

In recent years, we have received orders from both domestic and international clients for the development of bipedal robots, providing advanced motion control and system integration technologies. Additionally, leveraging the expertise gained from service robot development, we are focusing on collaborative robots for food factories facing severe labor shortages, AI vision systems within factories, and the construction of manufacturing lines. Our efforts go beyond mere product development, aiming to implement robot technology in society and create a more efficient and sustainable future. We will continue to pursue technological innovation to make “life with robots” a commonplace reality.

Outline of RT Corporation

Company Name: RT Co., Ltd.

Representative: President and CEO Yukiko Nakagawa (Ms.)

Headquarter : Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo, Japan

Established: September 2005

Business Activities: Education services related to robots and artificial intelligence, Robotics development and contracted robotics development etc.

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