Combining passenger sensing technologies and e-sports
Demonstrating the effectiveness of condition visualization technologies in the new domain

AbeTo date, TS TECH has engaged in research and development on technologies for sensing data on passenger vital signs like pulse and respiration as added value on seats for automobiles. This development has long pursued precision in sensing, but in considering how to create further added value, we began looking at ways to do more with the measurement data as the next step in the development.
We focused first on visualizing the fatigue level, which affects driving. In the process of gathering data, we had found a correlation between pulse and fatigue level. So, we worked in cooperation with KICONIA WORKS, which has strengths in AI algorithm development, to develop fatigue level estimation algorithms based on pulse data. We also focused on body pressure data measured when people use seats to make still better use of our strengths as a seat manufacturer. This project began with the goal of using both pulse and body pressure to estimate and visualize the level of fatigue and to verify the value of this data.

MatsumotoResearch on seats for automobiles poses technical difficulties related to performing verification in dynamic environments—the vehicle is shaking and the driver is operating the pedals. We focused on e-sports as a way to accelerate the pace of verification. Driving and e-sports share commonalities in terms of seating posture and the way the fatigue level impacts performance. It’s also a field our competitors have been fairly inactive in. If we were going to do feasibility testing, we wanted to take on the challenge of a new domain.
We visited e-sports trade shows, and that’s where we met people from the Human Academy e-Sports College, which worked with us on the feasibility testing.

TanakaThis project involved developing algorithms as well as a system incorporating complex elements, including sensors, applications, and a gaming chair. This meant system development required collaboration across different departments and fields, making coordination and information sharing among related parties vital. That’s why we adopted the systematic development approach of systems engineering* to properly reflect the views and requirements of the members responsible for each element.
* Systematic approach to design, development, operations, and maintenance for overall optimization of complex systems over multiple fields

In part due to TS TECH’s long history of focusing on development of hardware such as seats and door trim, we didn’t really have much expertise with systems engineering. We weren’t accustomed to it, and it was hard at times. But systems engineering is a method widely used to develop complex systems like this one. As we became used to it, it made it easier to work with related parties outside the company, and helped reduce process repetition and accelerate development. And systematically reflecting the views of related parties in the system made it possible to develop a system that combines the strengths of each department and field, demonstrating just how effective this approach can be. In this way, systems engineering contributed to the development of the fatigue level estimating AI seats by integrating the needs of e-sports athletes, our sensing technologies and algorithm concept, and the technologies of the partner company.

With the cooperation of students at the Human Academy e-Sports College, we undertook three months of feasibility testing using the condition estimating AI seats developed through this process. The testing verified the high precision of the algorithms and showed how visualizing one’s condition encouraged changes in behavior and taking appropriate breaks. It also showed the effectiveness of the seats in improving competitive performance.

MatsumotoLeaving the field of automobiles and being involved in a new domain led to numerous discoveries and broadened my perspective. I’d thought more precise measurements were key to more valuable products. This experience showed the importance of how to communicate the developed technologies and results as value. In terms of strategy, the steps following value verification can be said to be the true test of this project. Moving forward, while developing highly value-added products with features for improving the condition visualized, we will ultimately link these efforts to inputs to technologies for automotive products.

TanakaUse of a systems engineering approach in developing this system helped me to develop the ability to prioritize and coordinate the views of various departments without losing sight of the project’s main purpose. I also learned how to think and act logically and strategically by comparing the ideal with the actual and working backwards to see what was missing. I’d like to use these skills to develop appealing products in the future as well.

AbeThis was my first experience overseeing a project. It was quite a challenge, with numerous difficulties. Overcoming them while communicating closely with other departments and related parties outside the company allowed me to have a bird’s-eye management perspective. But for me, the most important result from this project was coming to understand the diverse potential of our products. Through manufacturing, we can make positive changes in user behavior. By further incorporating this concept into product development, I want to continue delivering products appreciated around the world.