Minister Yamaguchi Visits the Kansai Science City (Keihanna Science City)
Januray 19, 2015
Minister Yamaguchi testing the wheelchair robot
(Advanced Telecommunications Research Institute International)
Minister Yamaguchi listens to an explanation of ultra-realistic
technology, which makes objects appear in three-dimensions
without the aid of special glasses
(National Institute of Information and Communications Technology)
Minister Yamaguchi tests out a powered suit (Activelink Co., Ltd.)
Minister Yamaguchi (center) listens to a representative
explain the J-KAREN high-intensity laser facility
(Japan Atomic Energy Agency)
On January 19, 2015, Minister Yamaguchi paid visits to research labs at the Advanced Telecommunications Research Institute International, the National Institute of Information and Communications Technology, Activelink, and the Japan Atomic Energy Agency, all located within the Kansai Science city (also called Keihanna Science City).
At the Advanced Telecommunications Research Institute International, the Minister observed research in advanced neuroscience designed to support the independence of the elderly and individuals needing non-intensive nursing care. At the National Institute of Information and Communications Technology, the Minister experienced ultra-realistic technology, seeing a non-existent object appear on a tabletop in three dimensions. At Activelink, the Minister tested a power-enhancing work-support robot suit (powered suit). And, at the Japan Atomic Energy Agency, Minister Yamaguchi learned more about a facility that generates one of the most intense lasers in the world, planned for practical application in industrial and medical uses.
Said Minister Yamaguchi, “I believe that our country will need robots that offer opportunities to our citizens—regardless of age—to live and work. I hope that we will see even more advancements in science, technology, and innovation from Keihanna Science City that will be put to practical use in the future.” The Minister also expressed his desire to see the current technologies in Keihanna Science City adopted into future government policies.