JTW Digest, April 1, 2024

Author

Eldar Syzdykov
April 01, 2024

Japan and US Forge Global Partnership in AI and Technology: A Framework for Joint Research

Japan and the United States are set to enhance their alliance by establishing a "global partnership," with a focus on advancing collaboration in innovative technologies like artificial intelligence (AI) and semiconductors. A significant aspect of this partnership is the launch of a joint AI research framework, which will see contributions from major entities like Nvidia, Arm, Amazon, and universities from both nations, with a funding pool of around $100 million. This initiative, part of a broader strategy to assert global leadership in technology, will also address sectors like energy and climate change, including Japan's involvement in a U.S.-led project on offshore wind power. The partnership underscores the deep economic and security ties between the two nations and their commitment to leading in technological advancements.

Sakana AI Unveils Groundbreaking Evolutionary Model Merge Technique

Sakana AI has revealed a novel approach to developing foundational AI models by merging existing models using evolutionary algorithms. This technique, termed "evolutionary model merge," combines different open-source models to create a new foundational model. This process, inspired by natural selection, allows the creation of high-performance models efficiently, even combining disparate domains like non-English languages with mathematics or image recognition. Alongside, Sakana AI introduced three merged models, including a Japanese language model capable of mathematical reasoning, a visual language model that understands cultural specifics, and an image generation model tailored to Japanese context.

Kyoto Shinkin Bank Subsidiary Launches 1 Billion Yen Investment Fund and Invests in Thinker Co.

Kyoto Shinkin Bank's subsidiary has established the "Kyoto Shinkin Innovation C3 Fund," a 1 billion yen investment fund, to support innovative businesses addressing social issues. The first investment from this fund has been made in Thinker Co., a company developing a unique sensing technology combining infrared and AI to innovate non-contact, high-speed measurement tools, potentially transforming automation in industries facing labor shortages.

T2 Laboratory Advances Open Innovation with Compact, Energy-Efficient, High-Performance AI Edge Computers

T2 Laboratory is driving open innovation with the development of small, power-efficient, high-performance AI edge computers, facilitating real-time AI processing on devices. This advancement enables significant reductions in data transmission loads and communication costs, demonstrating potential applications in various sectors like agriculture and next-generation mobility, underscoring the company's commitment to advancing AI technology and open innovation in Japan.

Maebashi Hosts Test Ride Event for Next-Generation Vehicle Combining Autonomous Driving and Video Technology

A test ride event for a new generation vehicle that combines autonomous driving and video technology was held in Maebashi City. Developed jointly by Yamaha Motor and Sony, the vehicle autonomously navigates at speeds up to 20 km/h using electromagnetic waves from ground-laid wires. Attendees experienced augmented reality visuals through a display inside the vehicle, combining real scenery with computer-generated graphics. Feedback gathered will influence the vehicle's potential introduction at local attractions.

Okinawan Tofu Makers Develop New Sterilization Method to Meet Food Safety Standards

The Okinawa Prefectural Industrial Technology Center has developed a new sterilization technology for Okinawan island tofu (shimadofu).

The new technology addresses the challenge of meeting HACCP food safety standards, which previously required a "55°C management" process.

The new "retort sterilization" process allows Okinawan tofu manufacturers to produce and sell their products without being constrained by the "55°C management" requirement.

This new sterilization method is expected to help Okinawan tofu producers overcome the challenges posed by strict HACCP hygiene standards.

The title succinctly conveys the key innovation and its impact on the Okinawan tofu industry, making it a good, informative title for the summary.

NYK Line Establishes Method for Evaluating "Actual Sea Performance" of Contracted Vessels

NYK Line and Japan Marine United Corporation (JMU) have established a method to estimate and evaluate the "actual sea performance" of ships before construction, a significant step for the shipping industry. This new approach, verified over a year with a newly built crude oil tanker, will aid in predicting ship performance under real sea conditions, aligning with NYK's commitment to reduce GHG emissions by acquiring fuel-efficient ships.

Ammonia Power Technology Innovations Highlighted in Japanese Company Case Studies

Mitsubishi Power has developed an ammonia-fired gas turbine that can burn a mix of up to 20% ammonia and 80% natural gas. This technology aims to reduce CO2 emissions from power generation.

IHI Corporation has successfully tested an ammonia co-firing technology that can burn up to 50% ammonia in coal-fired power plants. This could significantly lower the carbon footprint of existing coal plants.

Kawasaki Heavy Industries has built a pilot plant to produce "green ammonia" using renewable energy sources like solar and wind power. This renewable ammonia can be used as a carbon-free fuel.

Sumitomo Corporation is exploring the use of ammonia as a hydrogen carrier, allowing for easier and safer transportation of hydrogen for energy applications.

THK Launches Advanced Wheel Guide for Enhanced Slide Mechanisms in Rail and Logistics Industries

THK has introduced the "Advanced Wheel Guide," a new utility slide that incorporates wheels into its rolling elements for smoother operation. This innovation is designed for the railway and logistics sectors, enhancing the performance of sliding components in harsh environments. The guide features self-aligning capabilities and improved dust resistance, offering a reliable solution for applications like train doors and automated warehouse systems.

Toppan Digital and Chino Chamber of Commerce Begin Trial of Facial Recognition Payment Service for Local Pay®

Toppan Digital and the Chino Chamber of Commerce have launched a pilot project for a facial recognition payment service within the Local Pay® platform, aimed at improving convenience and accessibility for local currency transactions. This service allows users to make payments without the need for apps or cards, simply through facial recognition at participating stores in Chino City, exploring the potential for wider adoption in regional currency operations.