According to the history of Japanese industrial robotics, when did the first industrial robot for commercial use go into operation at Toyota Automatic Loom Company (parent of Toyota Automobile Group)?

Introduction / Context:
Japan's early adoption of industrial robots marked a turning point in global manufacturing. This question asks for the specific date when a pioneer installation at Toyota Automatic Loom Company began commercial operation.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• Focus is on the first commercial operation in Japan at Toyota Automatic Loom Company.
• Timeframe spans mid-1960s to 1970 according to provided options.
• Context involves the initial deployments inspired by early Unimate-style robots.

Concept / Approach:

The earliest Japanese deployments followed global milestones from the United States and quickly transitioned into production by the late 1960s. Among the dates listed, late 1967 aligns with accounts of early commercial adoption in Japan's automotive-linked firms.

Step-by-Step Reasoning:

Verification / Alternative Check:

Historical overviews of Japanese robotics reference late-1960s commercial starts, preceding the broader surge in the 1970s; 1970 is too late for the very first within Toyota's group context.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:

1965 and 1966 precede the widely cited commercial start for this plant; 1970 post-dates the earliest operation; 'None of the above' is unnecessary since an appropriate date is provided.

Common Pitfalls:

Confusing licensed production start dates or other companies' installations with the specific Toyota Automatic Loom Company operation; overlooking the distinction between trials and commercial operation.

Final Answer:

December 1967