Megabots, the U.S.-based robotics company which challenged Suidobashi Heavy Industry of Japan has issued a Kickstarter campaign to raise funds to upgrade the current robot for a greater chance to defeat the Japanese team.

MegaBots first challenged the Japanese robot maker for a robot battle. The video released by the challenger became viral on the internet.

After a week, the Suidobashi Heavy Industry accepted the challenge of the US company but for a certain condition. The Japanese company does not want a long-range combat but a 'melee' or a metal to metal type of duel to really prove which is the best among the two.

To satisfy the demands of Suidobashi Heavy Industry, Megabots asked for the people's help to transform the robot from firing paintballs to a real punch thrower. The team recently posted a video explaining the real situation of MegaBots' Mk.II.

If the team gathers enough money, they would be able to upgrade the propulsion system of the robot for it to move faster. To attack the opponent, it needs better armor. They also want to improve the appearance of the robot.

The company targets to gather $500,000 within 30 days to be used for the expenses. A few hours after releasing the campaign, the company gathered $138,000 in donations. To encourage others to donate, the team promised a ride into its gunner's seat for those who will donate an amount of $1,000 while those who will donate $5,000 will have the chance to control the arms of the robot and smash dangling cars.

With the current earnings of the company, many believe that they will be able to meet their goal amount in no time. The team once announced its partnership with the creator of Battlebots Grant Imahara. An expert from NASA and the CEO of Autodesk also promised to help them realize their plans.

The fund raising campaign is not only intended to improve the robot's look and fighting skills but also to make sure that the human who will control the robot from the inside will come out safe after the combat.