#Japan #Connected Vehicles #Okayama #Okayama University #O2IP

Okayama University's 29th O2IP Workshop: A Gateway to Innovation

On April 24, 2025, Okayama University will host its 29th Open Innovation Program Workshop (O2IP) at the Tsushima campus. This workshop aims to engage a diverse group of participants, including local companies, municipal officials, researchers, and community residents, to explore innovative ideas that tackle regional challenges through the lens of well-being services enabled by connected vehicles.

The O2IP initiative encourages free discussion and knowledge sharing, fostering an environment where cutting-edge service and product ideas can flourish. By collaborating with prominent companies, such as Mazda Corporation, participants will have the opportunity to gain insights into the latest technological advancements and explore unique ideas and skillsets that can contribute to solving societal challenges.

The Focus of the Workshop

Mazda, a leading automotive manufacturer founded in 1920 in Hiroshima, is committed to industrial contributions to society. Their initiatives encompass sustainable practices and technological innovation, aligned with the evolving demands of today’s society. The recent surge in connected vehicles—vehicles that function as information and communication devices—presents unprecedented opportunities to address various social problems, including traffic congestion and autonomous dispatch in rural areas.

Connected vehicles, by leveraging a multitude of sensors and data analytics, can provide solutions with a potential to revolutionize the automotive business model. Major automotive firms worldwide are integrating external IT expertise to enhance their offerings with diverse connected services. In this context, Mazda has pioneered connected services that ensure safety and convenience for drivers, featuring 24/7 support for emergencies or vehicle malfunctions, while enhancing the overall driving experience with added functionalities.

During the workshop, attendees will learn about Mazda's innovations in connected vehicle technology and will participate in collaborative discussions aimed at generating well-being-related service and product ideas. Participants are encouraged to harness their individual knowledge and resources to think outside the box, combining various insights and capabilities around the concept of connected vehicles.

This workshop is designed to engage a wide range of stakeholders, including entrepreneurs, university students, high school students, residents of the local community, and governmental representatives, who are all welcome to contribute their perspectives on the theme.

Event Schedule and Preparation

The event will unfold as follows:

1. Introduction and Orientation (14:30–14:35)
2. Presentations and Demonstrations by Co-hosting Companies (14:35–15:15)
3. Explanation of Ideas Directions (15:15–15:20)
4. Group Discussions on the Theme (15:20–16:30)
5. Group Presentations and Feedback (16:30–17:00)

Leading the sessions will be Mr. Masanori Honda, the Director of Next-Generation Human-Centered System Research at Mazda, alongside Chief Researcher Yusaku Takeda.

How to Participate

All individuals interested in the theme are welcome to attend. However, the event is capped at 80 participants on a first-come, first-served basis due to limited capacity. To secure a spot, potential attendees must register through the following application form no later than April 23, 2025, at 17:00.

The workshop will take place in the newly constructed Co-Creation Innovation Laboratory on the fifth floor of the Tsushima campus, which emphasizes collaborative innovation and research.

Looking Ahead

The O2IP workshop is a vital platform not only for exploring innovative concepts but also for solidifying partnerships between academia, industry, and community stakeholders. With the evolving role of connected vehicles in shaping our interactions with technology and mobility, this workshop positions itself as a crucial step toward integrating these advancements into everyday well-being services.

Join us at Okayama University for an engaging experience that merges technology, innovation, and community collaboration for a better future.