Call for Technology Solutions
Future Care Lab in Japan seeks technologies and products to
address concrete challenges on the front lines of care.
We look forward to entries from developers ready to say, “We can solve this challenge”.
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【New】Window cleaning automation
For windows in nursing care facilities, routine washing and wiping require cost, time, and labor.
We are seeking technologies to address these issues.Potential Solutions / Features
- Example 1) Glass surfaces that do not require washing
- Example 2) Automatically climbs over window-frame muntins and continuously cleans while moving to the adjacent glass surface
- Example 3) When the battery runs low during cleaning, it returns to a dedicated station under its own power, resumes after automatic charging
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【New】Meal provision tailored to chewing and swallowing function
It is important to accurately assess each user’s chewing and swallowing function and provide meals in an appropriate form tailored to individual ability.
As inconsistent assessments are currently an issue, we are seeking technologies that enable objective evaluation.Potential Solutions / Features
- Example 1) A tool that evaluates chewing and swallowing function through voice analysis
- Example 2) A sensor that listens to throat sounds to visualize swallowing status
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【New】A bed that automatically adjusts height to match the user and care needs
Bed height adjustment varies by staff member, increasing users’ fall risk and contributing to staff back pain.
We are seeking technologies that automatically adjust to the optimal height based on body type and care needs, enabling safe transfers for users and assistance with less burden for staff.Potential Solutions / Features
- Example 1) When a user sits on the edge of the bed, it automatically adjusts to a height where their feet rest firmly on the floor, making it easier to stand up
- Example 2) Changes to an appropriate height according to the type of assistance—such as transfer assistance or diaper changes—while protecting user safety
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Safe and smooth wheelchair mobility assistance
Moving wheelchair users involves many staff members and takes time.
We are seeking technologies that reduce staff burden and support safe, smooth movement without making users wait.Potential Solutions / Features
- Example 1) With a smartphone or a single button, it automatically travels to the destination.
- Example 2) Attach sensors to an existing wheelchair to safely and automatically follow the wheelchair in front.
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Low-cost, hands-free in-facility staff location detection
Instead of location systems with high implementation and maintenance costs—and where device charging and carrying become a burden—we are seeking technologies that are low-cost, require no construction,
and can automatically detect staff locations with high accuracy even when they are hands-free, and keep operating continuously.Potential Solutions / Features
- Example 1) Can be installed at low cost with no construction, using plug-in receivers or existing Wi-Fi.
- Example 2) No need for charging or battery replacement, such as with indoor light power generation.
- Example 3) No need for staff to carry a device while on duty, or functions can be added to items they already carry.
Inquiries about the Call for Technology Solutions
We welcome consultations on the listed themes or any other solutions applicable to nursing care settings.
Contact UsOther Call Themes
- Early detection of
anxiety
restlessness from
dementia - Safe and
private
portable
toilets - Safe home
unlocking for
caregiver visits - Safe bathing
environments for the elderly - Oral care for the elderly
(1. Simple operation) - Oral care for the elderly
(2. Preventive care) - Oral care for the elderly
(3. Safe care) - Oral care for the elderly
(④ Individualized care) - Oral care for the elderly
(5. Environmental Improvement) - Emergency response support
- Lift-up
from the floor - Communication
support for
foreign caregivers - Medication management support
- Meals tailored
to the elderly’s
preferences - Preventing meal serving errors
- Reducing meal
recording burdens - Assessing the
urgency of nurse calls
and sensor alerts - Heat shock prevention in bathrooms and dressing rooms
- Automatic water supply for humidifiers
- Remote monitoring
for the elderly
living alone - Automated inventory,
ordering, and delivery - Monitoring during bathing
- Odor control in homes
and nursing care facilities - Physical function assessment
support for the elderly - Selecting assistive devices
and other equipment
that match user needs - New alternatives
to bathing
in a bathtub - Simple and appropriate
thickening
support - Automated bathtub and bathroom
cleaning - Room
temperature control - Automatic curtain
opening/closing
to maintain
daily routines - Heat countermeasures
for caregivers - Improving Efficiency in
pre-assistance
information gathering and handover
Consultations / Inquiries
Please contact us here for support with nursing care technology development,
consultations on implementation in the field, media inquiries,
or information regarding various projects for government and public agencies.