Japan – NEC develops marketing strategy planning & effectiveness simulation technology using generative AI

NEC Corporation (TSE: 6701) has developed a marketing strategy planning & effectiveness simulation technology that utilizes generative AI to identify latent needs of customers and generate optimal measures. According to an NEC survey, this is the world’s first technology that can automatically visualize customer interests and preferences (i.e. psychograhic attributes), generate measures, and predict customer responses to those measures. NEC aims to launch services with this technology in 2024.This technology has been used to develop ideas for new services that are under consideration for next-generation service stations for ENEOS Corporation, Japan’s largest oil & energy company.

Marketing strategy planning & effectiveness simulation technologyBackground

Currently, companies that provide services to customers (real estate, retail, distribution, energy, etc.) try to understand the latent needs of customers before opening a new store, starting a new type of business, or selling a new product or service. In order to understand customer needs, methods such as questionnaires and roundtable discussions, as well as collecting and researching information on the Internet are used. However, these methods lack comprehensiveness and rationality, making it difficult to accurately grasp the potential needs of customers. Other options include the use of outside consulting services, but there are growing expectations for methods that can easily and interactively generate optimal effective measures.

Overview and features of the marketing strategy planning & effectiveness simulation technology1. AI-based marketing strategy planning & effectiveness simulation of customer response rates that enables the execution of the most effective measures

By using NEC’s AI technologies (generative AI, consumer attribute expansion technology, knowledge discovery and strategy planning technology) and statistical credit card payment data / other purchasing history data, it is possible to analyze customers’ interests and preferences in a designated area or specific store, to identify latent needs and generate optimal measures. In addition, since it is possible to simulate the response rate of customers to the proposed optimal measures, it is possible to confirm the expected effects before implementing the measures so that only the most effective measures will be applied.

2. Large Language Model (LLM) of generative AI enables interactive analysis in natural language

By utilizing LLM, a type of generative AI, users can generate optimal measures interactively and simulate response rates using natural language. In addition, once prompts (instructional text) are entered, the results are output in a few minutes so that users can analyze repeatedly until they are satisfied.

3. Combining purchase history data with open data enables analysis even by companies that do not have in-house data

In addition to a vast amount of purchase history data, NEC’s AI technology enables the collection and utilization of highly relevant open data on the Internet. Therefore, comprehensive and rational analysis is possible, even without having in-house data (data owned by a company can also be utilized).

Study of ENEOS’s next-generation service stations

The ENEOS Group’s Long-Term Vision states that it will take on the challenges of achieving both a stable supply of energy and materials and realizing a carbon-neutral society.In addition to energy supply targets, ENEOS aims to provide total mobility and lifestyle-related services in support of a carbon-neutral society, and will continue to enhance the added value of more than 12,000 service stations throughout Japan by transforming them into new lifestyle platforms tailored to regional characteristics.As part of this effort, ENEOS will develop demonstration stores of next-generation service stations that encompass new and different services. In line with this, ENEOS is considering the use of NEC’s technologies in order to understand the latent needs of residents in designated areas and to identify prospective services that can contribute to greater sales and satisfaction.

About NEC CorporationNEC Corporation has established itself as a leader in the integration of IT and network technologies while promoting the brand statement of “Orchestrating a brighter world.” NEC enables businesses and communities to adapt to rapid changes taking place in both society and the market as it provides for the social values of safety, security, fairness and efficiency to promote a more sustainable world where everyone has the chance to reach their full potential. For more information, visit NEC at https://www.nec.com.

Copyright ©2024 JCN Newswire. All rights reserved. A division of Japan Corporate News Network.

Japan – MHI Develops an Onboard AI-Based Object Detector Utilizing a Next-Generation Space-Grade MPU

Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, Ltd. (MHI) recently developed an onboard artificial intelligence (AI)-based object detector called “AIRIS”(1) that detects objects from satellite images with satellite-mounted AI driven by the next-generation space-grade MPU(2) “SOISOC4.” AIRIS is scheduled to be launched aboard the small demonstration satellite “RAISE-4″(3) in FY2025, after which it will conduct an in-orbit demonstration.

Data processor (left) and earth observation camera (right) comprising the onboard AI-based object detector AIRIS
The cycle to be demonstrated by AIRIS

AIRIS is a satellite-mounted device consisting of an AI-equipped data processor and an earth observation camera developed by the Tokyo University of Science. It detects objects by taking images of objects on the earth’s surface from orbit and then processing the images with AI. By using AI in-orbit to perform detection processing-which heretofore has been performed on the ground-AIRIS can use its AI to select and transmit to the ground only those areas where target objects are visible in images. It can also receive an AI model that was “retrained” on the ground based on the transmitted images and update its own onboard AI while in orbit.

AIRIS will execute a demonstration utilizing these features as part of the “Innovative Satellite Technology Demonstration-4″(4) mission, which is scheduled for launch in FY2025. This mission is being executed as a demonstration opportunity under the “Innovative Satellite Technology Demonstration Program” by the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA). Specifically, AIRIS will execute a cycle of taking images of vessels sailing on the surface, using AI to select only areas in the images that contain vessels, transmitting those areas to the ground, having the AI undergo retraining on the ground, and then updating the AI by sending the retrained AI model to the AI in orbit.

AIRIS operations will be controlled with a next-generation space-grade MPU “SOISOC4” that is the product of development undertaken by JAXA and MHI. SOISOC4 is a domestically produced microprocessor that was designed and manufactured based on advanced SOI (Silicon on Insulator) and SOC (System on Chip) design technologies for general consumer use. It has high radiation resistance to withstand the harsh radiation environment of deep space, various communication functions, and security functions, and can operate with low power consumption.

MHI will conduct an in-orbit demonstration of SOISOC4 together with an AI operation demonstration of AIRIS as part of the in-orbit demonstrations planned for the “Innovative Satellite Technology Demonstration-4” mission. Through its development of these devices, MHI will contribute to Japan’s space development and utilization efforts by further enhancing the technologies and expertise it has accumulated to date in developing cutting-edge space equipment.

Mitsubishi Heavy Industries (MHI) Group is one of the world’s leading industrial groups, spanning energy, smart infrastructure, industrial machinery, aerospace and defense. MHI Group combines cutting-edge technology with deep experience to deliver innovative, integrated solutions that help to realize a carbon neutral world, improve the quality of life and ensure a safer world. For more information, please visit www.mhi.com or follow our insights and stories on spectra.mhi.com.

Copyright ©2024 JCN Newswire. All rights reserved. A division of Japan Corporate News Network.

Ferrovial develops a methodology to mitigate the effects of climate change on its infrastructure

WEBWIRE

  • This new tool helps avoid physical risks to infrastructure assets caused by extreme weather events such as storms, floods, and droughts

Ferrovial has developed and is applying its ADAPTARE methodology to manage the risks to its assets from the effects of climate change. The company has worked with the Environmental Hydraulics Institute of the University of Cantabria in Spain to develop a system for identifying and assessing the risks posed by severe weather events to each type of infrastructure. This will enable it to avoid the negative impact that heavy snowfall, floods, storms and droughts could have on its projects during construction, maintenance and operation.

Specifically, this innovative technology enables Ferrovial to obtain a preliminary estimate of the level of risk associated with different scenarios in the short, medium and long term. This diagnosis, which takes into account factors such as the level of risk, exposure and vulnerability of the infrastructure, facilitates the implementation of adaptation measures that minimize the impact and ensure the sustainability and resilience of the project.

This new methodology not only represents a step forward in managing the risks and opportunities of climate change, but also gives Ferrovial and its clients a competitive advantage in terms of climate action and the transition to a sustainable economy, said Valentn Alfaya, Director of Sustainability at Ferrovial.

Sustainability, a key element in Ferrovials strategy.

Sustainability has been at the core of Ferrovials business model for more than twelve years. The companys Sustainability Strategy 2030 sets ambitious targets to find solutions to adapt to climate change. One of the companys main objectives is to decarbonize its current operations and develop more sustainable ones, reducing direct emissions by 35.3% by 2030 compared to 2009 levels. It also plans to source all its electricity consumption from renewable sources by 2025 and achieve carbon neutrality by 2050.

In this way, Ferrovial continues to align its strategy with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), managing the risks and opportunities associated with climate change and contributing to a more sustainable present and future.

Japan – DOCOMO Develops World’s First Technology Utilizing Generative AI to Automatically Generate Non-Player Characters in Metaverse

NTT DOCOMO, INC. announced today that it has developed a generative AI that automatically generates non-player characters (NPCs), characters not controlled by the player, in the metaverse based solely on text input. The technology, which DOCOMO believes is the world’s first of its kind,1generates NPCs that embody distinct appearances, behaviors and roles in just 20 minutes,2 eliminating the need for specialized programming or algorithmic expertise.

The technology integrates three generative AIs: behavior-logic-generative AI, animation-generative AI,3 and appearance-generative AI.4 The behavior-logic-generative AI and the seamless synchronization of all three types of AI are unique developments by DOCOMO; significant achievements that mark the new technology as cutting-edge.

Behavior-logic-generative AI automatically creates a unique behavior tree5 that defines the behavior of NPCs in the metaverse using only text. Creating a behavior tree until now has typically required skilled programmers to use code when formulating the required specifications.

Behavior Tree

In addition, automatic linkage of the three generative AIs makes it possible to link the behavior tree generated by the behavior-logic-generative AI, the NPC skeletal data generated by the animation-generative AI, and the 3D model of the NPC generated by the appearance-generative AI, thereby allowing the automatic generation of NPCs using only text.

Linkage of the Three Generative AIs

The advancement of this technology is part of DOCOMO’s Lifestyle Co-Creation Lab, working together with partners to evaluate life-enhancing technologies. Its objective is to craft an Innovation Co-Creation Platform accessible across various industries. Rooted in the concept of metacommunication, and aimed at fostering a new community identity, DOCOMO aims to integrate the technology with its Large Language Model (LLM) infrastructure and personal data resources.

Going forward, DOCOMO plans to further enhance this technology and implement it in the DOOR, metaverse operated by NTT QONOQ, INC. within the fiscal year ending in March 2025, with the goal of helping customers enjoy more convenient and enriched lives. Related technologies and services will be targeted to help support regional revitalization and development, among other applications.

This technology will be introduced during the “New windowdocomo Open House ’24” online event beginning on January 17.

(1) According to DOCOMO’s research (as of December 2023). Patent pending by NTT DOCOMO, INC.
(2) Based on verification results of this project.
(3) Uses New windowHuman Motion Diffusion Model technology.
(4) Uses New windowText2Mesh.
(5) A structure used to create NPC (Non-Player Character) behaviors, placed within a hierarchical tree to visually represent the character’s thoughts and actions, making the flow of reasoning leading to actions visually comprehensible.

About NTT DOCOMO

NTT DOCOMO, Japan’s leading mobile operator with over 88 million subscriptions, is one of the world’s foremost contributors to 3G, 4G and 5G mobile network technologies. Beyond core communications services, DOCOMO is challenging new frontiers in collaboration with a growing number of entities (“+d” partners), creating exciting and convenient value-added services that change the way people live and work. Under a medium-term plan toward 2020 and beyond, DOCOMO is pioneering a leading-edge 5G network to facilitate innovative services that will amaze and inspire customers beyond their expectations.https://www.docomo.ne.jp/english/

Copyright ©2024 JCN Newswire. All rights reserved. A division of Japan Corporate News Network.

Honda Develops World’s First Honda E-Clutch for Motorcycles

Honda Develops World’s First Honda E-Clutch for Motorcycles

Honda Motor Co., Ltd has developed the world’s first(1) Honda E-Clutch system for motorcycles that enables smooth starting and gear shifting without the need for the rider to operate the clutch lever(2), by automatically controlling the clutch of the multi-gear manual motorcycle transmission.

The Honda E-Clutch is electronic control technology that realizes natural and smooth riding through instantaneous, fine-tuned clutch control without the rider needing to operate the clutch lever, for optimum performance in situations where the driving force changes, such as starting, stopping, and shifting gears.To meet a wide range of rider demands, the clutch can be operated manually like a normal manual transmission motorcycle by gripping the clutch lever, even when the clutch is being controlled electronically.As Honda E-Clutch is a lightweight and compact system, it can be installed without major changes to existing engine layouts. Honda plans to apply Honda E-Clutch to its FUN motorcycle models over time.

Honda will continue to develop new technologies that improve the quality of the riding experience and provide motorcycles that meet the tastes of a wide range of riders who seek the joy of riding.

Honda E-Clutch

System Overview

The Honda E-Clutch electronically controls the power transmission mechanism similar to a conventional manual single clutch or manual transmission mechanism, combining engine-coordinated control (ignition timing, fuel injection, etc.) and clutch-coordinated control according to vehicle conditions (vehicle / engine speed, throttle position, gear position, shift pedal load detection, etc.), to respond to the rider’s inputs. In addition, manual clutch operation by using the clutch lever and the motorized clutch control are independent, enabling the rider to intervene manually, realizing both manual operation and clutch control by motor.The system can be turned on or off. When the system is on, clutch operation is controlled automatically by default, and the rider can temporarily switch to manual clutch operation by using the clutch lever. When the system is off, the rider must operate the clutch with the clutch lever at all times (starting, shifting gears, and stopping).

Overview image of Honda E-Clutch system

(1) according to Honda research (as of October 2023)
(2) Gear shift pedal operation is required to change gears


Topic: Press release summary