Explores the Vision for Hachioji: Developing Lovable Robots and Cutting-Edge Innovations Modeled After Living Organisms' Movements
In the heart of Tokyo's Hachioji district, nestled at the end of an uphill road, lies a facility that is playing a crucial role in Toyota's transformation from a traditional car manufacturer to a broader mobility company. The Hachioji design base, formerly known as the Tokyo Design Research Lab., has evolved into the Advanced Design Development Department, focusing on emerging areas beyond cars.
The Hachioji design base is where innovation meets mobility. It houses next-generation products for future mobility solutions, illustrating Toyota's commitment to mobility solutions that integrate robotics and bio-inspired designs. These efforts aim to diversify Toyota's mobility portfolio and enhance its technological capabilities, underpinning its transition strategy.
One of the most intriguing exhibits at the Hachioji design base is the small delivery robot, Micro Palette. The Micro Palette, a topic of discussion at the 2019 Tokyo Motor Show, was designed to transport not only items but also emotions, offering a personal and empathetic logistics experience. Its design was inspired by the behavior of a spotted garden eel, a marine fish that stays still when touched gently but quickly retreats when approached suddenly.
The Micro Palette does not have discernible eyes or a mouth, but it subtly moves to create the impression of communication. Its movements, such as turning slightly up when approached, give the impression that it is engaging in conversation. Takashi Nishimura, the Assistant Manager of the Advanced Design Development Department, emphasized the importance of fostering trust between people and technology through subtle communication and gestures that evoke a sense of cuteness.
The product development philosophy of Toyota has shifted from a focus on people and cars to encompassing people and all aspects of life. This transformation is a reflection of Toyota's expanding focus, which now extends from cars to encompass all aspects of life as part of the transition to a mobility company.
Another exhibit at the Hachioji design base is the nap seat TOTONE, designed for quick, comfortable naps. The electric wheelchair JUU, capable of climbing stairs, is also on display. The JUU is a testament to Toyota's commitment to creating mobility solutions that cater to diverse needs.
The Hachioji design base serves as the hub for Toyota's endeavors in areas beyond cars. It is a testament to Toyota's vision of becoming a comprehensive mobility company, dedicated to creating advanced, future-oriented technologies that extend beyond conventional automobiles.
The Hachioji design base is the hub for Toyota's endeavors in areas beyond cars, embodying their vision of becoming a comprehensive mobility company. Here, cutting-edge technologies like the Micro Palette, a small delivery robot, demonstrate Toyota's integration of artificial-intelligence in their mobility solutions. The Micro Palette, designed to transport items and evoke emotions, exemplifies Toyota's advancement in technology and commitment to artificial-intelligence.
