Corporate
Profile

[Company strength]
We are a venture technology think tank. We were established by founders who conducted R&D at Wakayama University for machines for high-speed, high-accuracy measurement of shape, deformation, and strain. Our development activities are supported by the university, a consortium, the Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology, the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry, the prefecture, and foundations. We develop compact, low-price machines for 3D shape and deformation measurement. This is done using patented technologies of Wakayama University, the Moire Institute, and 4D Sensor. We are developing machines with specifications such as imaging speed of 2000 times per second, 3-μm accuracy, and a volume of 100 square centimeters. They are priced at 600,000 yen.

[Business description]
We research, develop, and sell machines to measure the 3D shapes of electronic and automotive parts and the deformation of infrastructure such as bridges and buildings. We implement a shape measuring method with the world's highest speed and accuracy. This method uses the whole-space tabulation method patented by Wakayama University and the light source stepping method patented (pending) by the Moire Institute. It also uses the light source stepping shadow moiré method patented (pending) by our company. We research, develop, and sell these devices. At the same time we also provide consulting to transfer technologies to companies wishing to develop their own machines.

[Industry]
Precision measuring machine manufacturing

[Strength of products/technologies]
The whole-space tabulation method is used to measure the 3D shape of an object simply by viewing a table without complicated calculations. Mechanical error can be automatically corrected for high speed and accuracy. The light source stepping method features high speed, a small body, and low cost because it has no moving parts. The light source stepping shadow moiré method features even higher accuracy because a fine grating can be projected. These technologies have enabled practical 3D shape measurement with the world's highest speed and accuracy. Cameras with high speed and accuracy are under R&D for checking the 3D appearances of electronic parts and devices.

[Representative's message]
4D refers to 3D (x, y, z) plus time (t). The time variations of 3D shapes are measured. This is why we included 4D in our company name and why we call our products 4D cameras. Our products are gradually showing results, but we expect them to spread explosively in future. We are financially stable because we receive various subsidies and capital loans. Our technologies are attracting attention even outside Japan and we are receiving many overseas inquiries. We are also invited to various international conventions for keynote speeches and lectures. We will actively extend our activities overseas from now on. We anticipate cooperative relations with major companies on equal terms through J-GoodTech.

[Company structure for market development/overseas expansion]
Our company researches, develops, and sells machines. We also transfer our technologies to many major companies by means of consulting. This is done to make them widely available to many companies. We are also introducing our technologies outside Japan by means of keynote speeches, invited lectures, and exhibitions at international conventions. We are receiving many inquiries. We will start to sell products and transfer technologies as soon as our system is reinforced.

[Market share/Ranking]
We are still at the R&D stage. We have a history of many sales transactions with major companies and universities, but not many for general use. We will achieve the top market share by aggressive sales.

[Awards and media coverage]
[Awards]
New Business Grant Prize, The Senshu Ikeda Bank, Prize of Excellence (FY2014); The 21st KSP Business Innovation School Award of Excellence; Japan Society for Archaeological Information, Kashida Award (FY2012); The 75th Kawasaki Entrepreneur Audition Award of Excellence and KSP Entrepreneur Support Award.

[Media]
Wakayama Shimpo (September 11, 2013); InnovationS-i (February 2012); New Techno Mart Information Magazine “SO” (October 2013); CENTURY (December 2013); Nihon Kogyo Gijutsu Shimbun (February 2014).


[Authorization/Certification]
Specific R&D plan certification by METI Kansai (July 21, 2013).

[Joint research and development]
Wakayama University, Wakayama Prefecture Support for Pioneer Industrial Technology R&D, Wakayama Small and Medium-Sized Enterprise Energy Fund, and Strategic Core Technology Advancement Program (SAPOIN).

[Intellectual property]
We are consulting for performing not only utilization of the patent technology which Wakayama University, Moire Institute Inc., and our company hold but technology transfer of such patent technology, and a contract window of these patent licenses. 

[Other sites]
Headquarters (Residence No. 111, Wakayama City), Research & Development (Business Square No. 313, Wakayama City)

[Transaction form]
Manufacturing, sales, consulting, licensing, and joint development of shape and deformation measuring machines.

[Transaction terms]
In principle, payment at the end of the next month after delivery.

[Main Clients / Business History (domestic)]
We have a history of many transactions with major companies and universities. We have now received many inquiries and will conduct actual transactions. We also provide many consulting services (technology transfer regarding shape measuring machines, and measurement).

[Main Clients / Business History (overseas)]
We have now received many inquiries from overseas and will conduct actual transactions.

[Exhibition History/Information]
Image Sensing Show (twice); NEPCON Japan (twice); exhibit at Taiwan ISEM2012; invited lectures at international conventions; ICEM 2013; keynote speech at SVCS 2014; organized session at ICEM16.