Category Award Open Category
Startups & University Category

Grand Prix

Outline

The MST (Memory Saving Tree) edge AI algorithm can run on ARM Cortex-M level microcontrollers, requiring just a few KB of memory. With 92% ARM coverage, it is recommended for implementation on Cortex-A, Cortex-R, and Cortex-M series. As well as delivering ultra-light and extremely power-efficient AI, it offers high prediction accuracy and rapid response. Moreover, standalone sequential learning is possible even after edge AI implementation.

Assessment

MST is a proprietary edge AI algorithm that supports additional learning with low memory requirements and high accuracy. It is a technology that can be applied in a wide range of fields including industrial applications and individual error correction. With a background in machine control, the engineers involved in AI development have expertise in multiple fields, including embedded systems. This technology exemplifies endpoint AI, which provides sensors and other devices with AI functionality. The award recognizes that MST is already a practical technology that can offer solutions to the sort of issues facing Japan’s industries that are in need of technological breakthroughs.

Semi Grand Prix

Marine Drone (Water Drone All Made in Japan) – Automation and Digitization for Work on the Water

Homura Heavy Industries Corporation

Exhibit Area:Co-Creation PARK

Outline

Use: Automation of marine work with a marine drone. Main functions: Automated operation based on location information, unmanned and remote control of equipment for different work applications mounted on the marine drone, and virtual anchoring. Technologies/features: Hardware, software, data servers, more, all made in Japan. Programs developed in-house that do not use open-source software. Independently-developed specialist circuit boards that are resistant to outdoor and water environments. Highly reliable embedded OS.

Assessment

Appraised for its versatility as a marine drone, and for its ability to navigate autonomously and remotely. Implementation of this system with the aging workforce on the water and with previously manual poaching countermeasures will reduce human and financial costs, enable sustainable countermeasures and offer the prospect of using navigation data for poaching countermeasures and high-value-added information proposals. The technology will also contribute to the utilization of water resources with the development of spaces such as stages and restaurants that move on the water. The company's commitment to pure domestic production was also highly evaluated.

CEATEC AWARD 2021: Award categories and judging criteria

The awards recognize innovative applications from start-up companies, universities and research institutes that develop IoT and other related technologies, products, services, software, and business models, and bring it to market. Candidates judged as superior from definitive perspectives such as practicality, contribution to society, technological sophistication and marketability, will be considered for the awards.