[19] Prof. Keiichi Torimitsu

Technology

Technology for Conducting Electricity Through Natural Fiber Materials
A technology that enables natural fiber materials, which normally do not conduct electricity (such as silk, fabric, and paper), to conduct electricity by combining them with "conductive polymers." This innovation allows for electrical measurement and sensing without using metals, offering a potential alternative to metals in various scenarios

Strength

Sensing Materials with the Physical Characteristics of Yarn and Fabric, Excelling in Scenarios Where Metals Are Unsuitable

Superior in biocompatibility, skin comfort, and corrosion resistance for human body sensing
• Metals are not suitable for internal measurements or skin-contact sensing
• Enables sensing with biocompatible materials such as silk threads, cotton threads, and fabrics

Capability for 3D curved surface load measurement in load sensing
• Metals are limited to load measurement on fixed flat surfaces, such as scales
• Allows for sensing on flexible "surfaces" like Japanese paper and fabric

Non-Contact sensing with enhanced skin comfort and a soft appearance
• Metal-based sensors for human detection appear cold and rigid
• Enables non-contact sensing using materials like Japanese paper and fabric, providing a soft and approachable look

Use Case

①- A Application in wearable devices
Development and sale of sensing wear that can be used without being conscious of wearing it. Utilized for measuring the optimal body movements of athletes

①- B Utilization as heart rate measurement sensors in medical settings
Compared to metal-based biological sensing for the heart and other body functions, this technology reduces the burden on the human body during continuous measurement, enhances measurement accuracy through superior biocompatibility, and achieves longer durability due to its resistance to corrosion

C Application as conductive fibers in automotive sensors
Conductive fibers used in automotive components have faced challenges such as sensing degradation due to corrosion and the need for regular replacement. However, the introduction of silk eliminates the issue of corrosion, enabling improved sensing performance and long-term use

A Development of a chair that measures sitting posture imbalance & provides improvement advice
A chair capable of three-dimensional sensing of pressure on the seat surface to measure posture tilt and load, providing feedback for correct posture

② - B Development of a bed that measures sleeping posture imbalances in elderly individuals and provides important advice
A bed designed to three-dimensionally measure the pressure on the backs of bedridden elderly residents in care facilities, providing feedback to promote correct sleeping posture

③: Application of human detection sensors in curtains, wall interiors, stuffed toys, and more
As a human detection sensor with a soft appearance that does not rely on infrared technology, this innovation has potential applications in a wide range of everyday products

Message from the Lab

What I want to know

Tohoku University International Research Institute of Disaster Science
Specially Appointed Professor, Division for Disaster Reduction Practice

Prof. Keiichi Torimitsu

New application ideas for this technology combined with overseas needs
This technology, with its potential as a "metal substitute" and for "enhancing the value of threads and fabrics," can be applied in a wide range of scenarios. We look forward to creative and innovative ideas unique to overseas students, unconstrained by the use cases described here

Desired Candidate Profile

Individuals with Creative Thinking
Even better if you have the passion to transform ideas into viable businesses

Reference