A Mitsubishi Electric machine has cracked the notoriously challenging Rubik’s Cube puzzle in less than a third of a second.
In the blink of an eye, computer-controlled components moved the squares of the 3 x 3 x 3 cube until each side of the block was one color, completing the game.
The people present applauded the achievement.
Guinness World Records recognized the time of 0.305 seconds achieved by the TOKUI Fast Accurate Synchronized Motion Testing Robot as a new world best, beating the previous record of 0.38 seconds.
Mitsubishi Electric received a certificate from the registration authority on May 21.
The fastest time for a human is 3.13 seconds, achieved in June 2023 by Max Park at an event in California.
According to a press release from Mitsubishi Electric, the record-breaking machine uses a color recognition algorithm, developed with proprietary technology, that allows the robot to process colors accurately and at high speed.
It also mentioned “compact, high-performance, signal-sensitive servo motors.”
The company said the machine can rotate an object 90 degrees in 0.009 seconds.
One of the biggest challenges the team faced was the cube getting stuck while the components were being rotated at high speed. Adjustments were made until the robot could complete the actions without breaking the cube.
The Rubik’s Cube was invented in 1974 by a Hungarian sculptor. It became all the rage worldwide as an advanced toy that tests intelligence and dexterity.
Robots play an important role in the Japanese economy and are well represented in pop culture. Traditionally used in assembly plants, they are now rapidly moving into the service sector as the country faces a labor shortage.
Machines can be found in chain restaurants delivering orders to tables, in hotels checking in guests and on the street delivering take-out meals.
Mindar, a robot in Kyoto, offers Buddhist teachings.
