Get ready for a tech-filled extravaganza in Tokyo! SusHi Tech Tokyo 2024, taking place from April 27th to May 26th in the Tokyo Bay Area, promises to be a vibrant showcase of cutting-edge innovation.
This event is more than just a display of cool gadgets; it’s a vision for a sustainable future. Governor Yuriko Koike emphasized the event’s commitment to merging sustainable practices with groundbreaking technology. “This initiative is our beacon for a sustainable, tech-driven future,” she declared, setting the tone for the event.
Mobility, Robotics, and Sustainable Food: A Glimpse into the Future
The press preview offered a sneak peek into the exciting world of SusHi Tech, highlighting advancements in mobility, robotics, and sustainable food solutions.
One standout innovation was the Raptor, a tri-wheel mobility platform that could revolutionize urban transportation. Developed by RDS and fuRo, the Raptor boasts a sleek three-wheel design with innovative lean functionality on its front wheels. This electric marvel can easily navigate tight turns while maintaining three-wheel contact thanks to its 12-inch front and 10-inch rear tires. With a cruising speed of 30 km/h and a 40 km range powered by a lithium-ion battery, the Raptor promises efficient and nimble urban mobility.
The Raptor’s versatility extends beyond just transportation. Its ingenious connection unit mechanism allows users to easily detach the upper design unit from the lower base unit with a simple lever flick. This modular design transforms the Raptor into a versatile platform, serving as a wheelchair, a cargo carrier, and adaptable to various other needs. Adding a sensor-equipped robot to the upper unit transforms the Raptor into an autonomous mobile robot, opening up exciting possibilities for customization and applications.
The Next Generation of Combat Sports: RFIGHT
While mobility devices and drones were impressive, the RFIGHT boxing-style game stole the show. In this unique combat sport, participants wear robotic suits that amplify their movements, creating a new level of competition.
These robotic suits, developed by Skeletonics, resemble the iconic Evangelion EVAs. They operate as exoskeleton suits, amplifying human movements without the need for internal power sources. Sensors strategically placed throughout the armor trigger the mechanism when the wearer throws a punch.
In RFIGHT, players compete against each other wearing these suits, and their health gauges gradually deplete with each hit. This innovative sport offers a thrilling new way to compete, allowing individuals to overcome physical limitations and barriers, making sports more inclusive.
RFIGHT’s simplicity, reminiscent of traditional sports, could appeal to individuals seeking immersive physical competition in a world increasingly dominated by esports and VR-based activities. Visitors will be able to experience these robotic suits at SusHi Tech Tokyo as part of the Superhuman Sports Grand Challenge 2050.
Revolutionizing Food: Sustainable Farming and Plant-Based Innovations
SusHi Tech Tokyo also showcased advancements in sustainable agriculture and innovative plant-based products.
Plantio Corporation subsidiary, grow CONNECT, is dedicated to revolutionizing sustainable food and farming while pioneering the frontier of agri-entertainment. CEO Takayoshi Serizawa unveiled an AI-powered system that provides personalized guidance for vegetable cultivation, including watering and thinning schedules.
This innovative technology aims to promote sustainable and efficient farming practices. The system integrates with an AI cloud farming platform, continuously learning and enhancing its cultivation recommendations based on user interactions. It also offers timely harvesting notifications, suggesting optimal harvesting times for maximum yield.
At SusHi Tech Tokyo, grow CONNECT will showcase the world’s first indoor farming system tailored to vegetable cultivation. This system serves as a communal space where people can connect, cultivate, and enjoy growing and consuming together, fostering a sense of community and sustainable practices.
Another company, Eclipse Foods Japan, has launched eclipseco, a 100% plant-based, dairy-free future ice cream. This sustainable alternative offers a guilt-free indulgence, slashing CO2 emissions by 65% compared to conventional ice cream. The ice cream made its debut in mid-March at select FamilyMart stores in Tokyo, marking the American parent company’s first overseas venture, fueled by Tokyo’s initiative to attract foreign companies. While the ice cream sold out quickly, visitors can enjoy it at SusHi Tech Tokyo.
A Collective Vision for Tokyo’s Future
Arca CEO Asako Tsuji, chairperson of the event’s executive committee, spoke on behalf of the organizers, highlighting the collective vision for Tokyo’s future.
“Our aim is to present a slice of our collective vision to you,” she said, emphasizing the collaborative effort behind SusHi Tech Tokyo. Tsuji reflected on the “intense and passionate discussions within the committee,” showcasing their dedication to pushing the boundaries of innovation.
Tsuji emphasized that SusHi Tech Tokyo is not solely a platform for the Tokyo Metropolitan Government’s vision but also a forum for every resident to contribute, share ideas, and envision the future together.
“We envision this event as a catalyst for every Tokyo resident to envision the future of our city,” she said. “What might the future Tokyo look like? This question guides our collective exploration, seeking to inspire and provoke thought among us all.”
Looking back to Tokyo’s rich history, Tsuji underscored the significance of hosting the event in the city. “We seek to honor that legacy, projecting how we can continue to evolve and innovate in the Reiwa era. By showcasing Tokyo’s unique blend of old and new, we aim to inspire not just a vision for the future but also to ensure the continuation of our rich cultural heritage into the modern era.”
SusHi Tech Tokyo 2024 will take place across four venues: Ariake Arena, Miraikan, Symbol Promenade Park, and the Uminomori (sea, forest, waterway) area. With its focus on innovation, sustainability, and community engagement, SusHi Tech Tokyo promises to be an exciting and thought-provoking experience for all visitors.
