Japan opened an exhibition Saturday to showcase the world's frontline technology in making robots, including the world's smallest walking robot.

The human-shaped toy, dubbed "Robo-Q," is only 3.4 centimeters tall and was unveiled by Japanese toymaker Tomy Co. at the three- day Robo Japan 2008 show in Yokohama.

The thumb-sized, two-legged robot can detect obstacles and navigate through a maze using built in infrared sensors. Using a controller, it can also play games like soccer.

The toy will be put into domestic market next spring, said producers, adding that it is expected to be sold in other Asian countries soon afterwards and in the United States and Europe at an unspecified date.

The exhibition in Yokohama brings together more than 100 different types of robots by a total of 43 companies, universities and organizations, including Honda Motor Co. and Fujitsu Ltd.

Honda's popular humanoid ASIMO and Mitsubishi Heavy Industries Ltd.'s talking household robot called "Wakamaru" were also participants of the show.

Tokyo University of Science unveiled a robotic suit to help female or people with physical difficulties to carry heavy things.

Visitors had chance to experience the robots up close, including a demonstration stage and a variety of different zones where the robots will be grouped according to theme.

Organizers said the show, which is expected to draw 55,000 visitors, focuses on these "partner robots" which can provide various kinds of assistance with everyday tasks, such as medical care, education, entertainment and therapy.

According to the Japan Robot Association, the market for lifestyle-related robots is expected to reach 7.2 trillion yen by 2025.

(Xinhua News Agency October 11, 2008)