Aoyama Advanced Technology Research Institute

In situations where I investigate and research matters, there is always an incident that comes to mind

There was an incident where several small fish fell from the sky in a cluster. Newspapers initially framed it as a supernatural phenomenon. For an explanation, they interviewed ichthyologists and meteorologists, who stated it was likely carried by localized weather phenomena like tornadoes accompanied by updrafts. An ornithologist who saw this was astonished. Birds like herons have the habit of regurgitating stomach contents to lighten their bodies when attacked by birds of prey, making it a common sight for ornithologists.

The crucial point is not to mistake the field that should be investigated regarding the phenomenon. This is a prime example of how, no matter how professionally one investigates the causes of a phenomenon, if the direction of the investigation is wrong, it will yield misguided results.

Such reports are common. As was the case in spring 2021, when cherry blossoms bloom earlier than usual, people start wondering if any flowers will remain for the entrance ceremonies. While cherry blossoms bloom simultaneously in Japan’s famous cherry blossom spots, where clones of the Somei Yoshino variety are common, many school grounds plant several types of cherry trees with different blooming periods. This ensures cherry blossoms are present for both graduation and entrance ceremonies. Those with knowledge immediately recognize that the very notion of “whether flowers will remain for the entrance ceremony” is flawed. Yet, this serves as an example of trusting the seasonal greetings heard every year without questioning them at all.

Such misguided assumptions often become topics of discussion, but those engaged in research cannot laugh them off. Many errors in research stem from such misguided assumptions. The phenomena to be investigated are diverse and multifaceted, and conducting a thorough investigation from all angles requires a high level of insight. Consequently, we believe that as researchers, we must deepen our expertise in our own fields while constantly striving to broaden our learning and enhance our own insight.

As the think tank of the EPIC PARTNERS Group, our institute collaborates with domestic and international research institutions, universities, and government agencies. We conduct and disseminate extensive research on the latest technological insights and application methods, thereby contributing to society through our initiatives.

The English name of our institute, “AOYAMA Intelligence Advanced Technology Research Institute,” embodies our commitment to establishing our founding location, Tokyo’s Aoyama 1-chome, as a hub for open innovation. Here, we gather and research all forms of Intelligence, sharing our discoveries with the world. Amidst rapid technological innovation and the dizzying pace of social and environmental change, we believe it is crucial to connect the ever-emerging new forms of Intelligence in the world to continuously acquire and provide cutting-edge technologies of value to people everywhere.

Thanks to your support, our company has achieved steady growth since its founding in 2001. Moving forward, we will continue to cultivate highly skilled engineers and provide high added value as a specialized research institute dedicated to cutting-edge technology research, human and intellectual networks, technical networks, and proposing advanced technology solutions and utilization services.

Furthermore, we will enhance our services through collaboration with partner companies and researchers, and work together with them to expand our business volume.

We will continue to contribute to society as partners who jointly realize digital transformation (DX) by creating new value.

Qingshan Advanced Technology Research Institute
Executive Fellow
Ryūichi Nakajima