AI-Powered Walking Aid 'Seeker' Reaches Funding Goal in Just Two Days

An impressive feat has been achieved by Maris Creative Design, a Tokyo-based company, with their AI-powered walking aid, 'Seeker'. Officially launched on June 4, 2024, through the investment crowdfunding platform FUNDINNO, they reached their initial funding goal of 10 million yen in just two days. Currently, they are striving to achieve their upper limit of 80 million yen as support requests continue.

Understanding 'Seeker'

The 'Seeker' is a remarkably innovative device designed to assist visually impaired individuals in overcoming mobility challenges. It intelligently uses AI to identify potential hazards such as obstacles at torso height, signal visibility, and risks of falling onto train station platforms. By notifying users of these dangers through vibrations, the device significantly enhances safety and confidence during their travels.

Several factors have contributed to the enthusiastic backing from investors. Among these are its cutting-edge edge AI capabilities, which enable real-time hazard detection. The device has successfully been tested in cities like Fukuoka and Kitakyushu, with future demonstrations planned in Shibuya. Furthermore, leveraging government subsidies for user costs (between 10,000 to 30,000 yen) has been a significant strategy to boost its adoption.

In terms of design, the 'Seeker' has been crafted by experienced professionals who have previously worked on designs for PlayStation®5, emphasizing user experience in the realm of “invisible welfare.” Notable investors, including NTT Finance and Kips, have also joined the project, enhancing its credibility.

Investors have voiced their enthusiasm, expressing confidence in the social significance, implementation potential, and market viability of 'Seeker', indicating a promising growth trajectory.

Why Continue to Invest?

While the funding goal has been met on FUNDINNO, Maris Creative Design emphasizes that this is merely the beginning of their journey. Achieving the upper limit of 80 million yen would allow them to pursue several critical initiatives:
1. Mass Production Prototypes: Delivering 50 units to real users, transitioning into the social implementation phase.
2. Feature Enhancements: Plans to update the device include voice notifications, family linkage apps, and OTA capabilities.
3. Preparing for SaaS Deployment: Establishing a foundation for 'Seeker Link', utilizing walking data to ensure user safety.

The founders express a profound hope to build a future where 'Seeker' becomes an integral part of mobility infrastructure, supporting more individuals in their daily travels.

Investment Participation Details

- 募集期間: June 4, 2024, to June 17, 2024
- 募集形式: Equity crowdfunding via FUNDINNO
- Investment Units: Minimum of 100,000 yen per unit (registration as a priority investor required)

For more information, please visit the crowdfunding page here (open until June 17).

Registration for priority investors is free, and you can sign up here.

Online Business Explanation Meeting

Maris Creative Design will hold an online session led by CEO Yasuhiko Wada, where they will explain the company’s mission and answer questions from potential investors. The meeting is scheduled for:

- Date: June 11, 2024, from 18:00 to 19:00

Media Inquiries

Maris Creative Design welcomes media interest regarding this groundbreaking synergy of AI, welfare, and product design. For any inquiries, feel free to contact:

Contact Information:
Yasuhiko Wada, CEO
Email: [email protected]
Website: Maris Creative Design