In Japan, over 90,000 people are hospitalized from heat stroke each year, with over 60% being elderly. Many underestimate the danger and struggle to maintain preventive habits. To address this, we developed Beat the Heat, a family-linked app based on a scientific approach to heatstroke prevention. It features a Cool Spot Navigator to find nearby cool areas, and a Heat Acclimation Support System using BBC Micro:bit to guide and track daily exercises. By encouraging safe activity and sending real-time alerts to family members, the app provides both protection and peace of mind.
Inspired by a workout recognition app using reservoir computing I saw at an exhibition at an exhibition, I wondered if similar technology could help elderly people with exercise routines. This led me to develop a wearable device using micro:bit. Though initially unsure about AI implementation, I studied through Qiita and GitHub, collecting over 100 samples each of "stationary" and "exercise" data using CreateAI. The system identified movement patterns with surprising detail.The most significant insight from this journey was recognizing my own unconscious biases about target users. User testing revealed surprising diversity in elderly technology adaptation levels—some mastered complex apps while others struggled with basic operations. This led us to develop a home device version with simpler interfaces using voice commands and camera detection. I learned the importance of regularly incorporating user feedback rather than implementing based solely on our assumptions.
Helpie is a companion robot specially designed for hospitalized children. Its main function is to reduce the stress and anxiety that hospitals produce through stories, songs, and fun visuals.
This project utilizes the micro:bit to create a game device which supports English language learning.
This project uses micro:bits to simulate wind power, control lights, and monitor humidity in an evapotranspiration toilet.
