Key Highlights of Japanese Wearable Technology
Discover Japan’s groundbreaking wearable innovation: the Archelis, a revolutionary “standing” chair designed specifically for surgeons.
First introduced in Tokyo, the Wearable EXPO opened its doors in 2015, quickly becoming the world’s largest event for wearable technology.
Japan’s wearable technology sector is slated to expand dramatically, from 530,000 units sold in 2013 to an estimated 13.1 million units by 2017.
What do notable inventions like the Discman, Tamagotchi, and Game Boy have in common?
These iconic devices are all pioneering innovations from Japan during the 80s and 90s, showcasing the nation’s influence in technology.
However, the dominance of Silicon Valley giants like Google and Apple has diminished Japan’s role in crafting transformative technologies in recent years.
According to Professor Masahiko Tsukamoto of Kobe University Graduate School of Engineering, a resurgence in innovation is underway with new entrepreneurs and collaborations with academic scientists.
This new wave emphasizes not smartphones or video games, but rather wearable technology like smart glasses, wearable chairs, and canine communication devices.
This signifies a fresh approach to wearable tech that is both innovative and practical.
In 2013, Yano Research Institute reported sales of 530,000 wearable devices in Japan.
This figure is projected to soar to 13.1 million units by 2017.
The Wearable EXPO in Tokyo exemplifies this growth, emerging as the world’s premier trade show for wearable technologies with 103 exhibitors at its inaugural event in 2015.
Highlights included an electronic kimono, devices for cat communication, and smart gloves that record pianists’ finger movements.
The next event is scheduled for January 18-20, 2017, with expectations of over 200 exhibitors and 19,000 attendees.
“With enhancements in functionality and design, wearables are positioned as the next significant growth market,” states program director Yuhi Maezono.
The Caninepathy dog harness, set to launch by year-end, will enable deeper communication between pet owners and their dogs.
In addition to monitoring heart rates, the harness incorporates noise-canceling technology to isolate the dog’s heartbeat and track reactions to various stimuli like food and games.
Based on this data, the harness evaluates the dog’s mood, changing colors to communicate with the owner.
The collar is equipped with LEDs that light up in blue for calmness, red for excitement, and a rainbow effect for happiness.
Joji Yamaguchi, CEO of Inupathy, was inspired by a nervous Corgi named Akane, leading to the development of Caninepathy to monitor dog anxiety.
“I felt a disconnect with Akane and wanted to bridge that gap,” Yamaguchi expressed.
“Buddhism, along with ancient Japanese beliefs, teaches that all beings possess souls, and unresolved issues can lead to distress.”
Yamaguchi aspires for wearable wellness technologies to be applicable to humans as well.
“AI-driven personalization will revolutionize the industry,” Yamaguchi noted.
“For instance, identifying behavioral patterns that precede depressive episodes could significantly benefit individuals. Personalized AI will make this a reality.”
The Archelis, a unique wearable chair launched this year in Japan, is gaining international attention.
This innovative device was developed collaboratively by Nitto Mold Factory, Chiba University, Japan Polymer Technology, and Hiroaki Nishimura Design, and aims to alleviate fatigue for surgeons during lengthy operations.
The chair enables wearers to effectively alternate between sitting and standing.
“The Archelis concept is revolutionary,” asserts Dr. Hiroshi Kabira, the mastermind behind the chair. “Extended surgery hours often lead to discomfort for surgeons, particularly those who are older.”
Constructed from 3D-printed components, Archelis operates without batteries or electronic parts.
The innovative design features flexible carbon panels that cradle the wearer’s backside, legs, and feet, ensuring support and reducing joint strain.
The chair’s mechanism stabilizes the ankles and knees, distributing weight evenly across the shins and thighs, allowing for a standing posture while providing restful benefits.
Although appearing upright, the wearer can work comfortably while alleviating strain on the back and limbs.
Other compact wearable devices are also making waves in the industry.
At approximately three inches long, BIRD is a sleek device that turns your fingertip into a versatile wand.
This remarkable device features advanced sensors and algorithms that interpret user intentions, tracking gestures, speed, and direction.
The innovative technology allows users to transform any surface into a smart interface, interacting seamlessly with other smart gadgets.
While moving around their space, users can project content onto walls, control appliances, read on various surfaces, and shop online with simple gestures.
Developed by MUV Interactive from Israel and Japan’s Silicon Technology, BIRD aims to revolutionize educational and corporate presentations through collaborative features.
Source: www.cnn.com