Genetec Achieves Top Score at FPGA AI Design Hackathon

Genetec's Success at the FPGA AI Design Hackathon

On June 10, 2025, Genetec, a leader in system solutions based in Shinjuku, Tokyo, proudly announced that its engineers secured the top score in the mAP (mean Average Precision) category at the FPGA AI Design Hackathon. This prestigious event was organized by the University of Tokyo's Graduate School of Engineering as part of the Agile-X project, aimed at promoting innovative semiconductor technologies.

Participation in the Hackathon

The FPGA AI Design Hackathon brought together students and engineers to explore synergies between AI and FPGA design, fostering interdisciplinary communication and skill development in the cutting-edge fields. Over its two-decade journey, Genetec has focused on embedded development and FPGA design, honing its expertise particularly in sectors that prioritize real-time performance, security, and reliability, such as automotive systems and industrial equipment.

Genetec's participation in the hackathon was driven by its long-term vision of addressing social challenges through 'software development x hardware development x AI' as part of its medium-term management plan. This initiative aims to enhance their edge AI solutions and solidify competencies in the FPGA and AI domains.

Evaluation Highlights

During the hackathon, participants implemented the object detection model YOLOv3 on the KV260 FPGA board. The scoring system calculated a comprehensive score based on the product of FPS (frames per second) and mAP, evaluated in real-time at the venue. Genetec achieved more than double the average mAP score of fellow competitors, underlining its commitment to accuracy. The customary benchmark for embedded products in the market is a minimum mAP score of 85, with 100 being the highest.

Moreover, the hackathon presented valuable networking opportunities, allowing Genetec to receive high praise from university professors, who commended the achievement of scoring above 90 in the mAP category. Such recognition has resulted in invitations for future speaking engagements, boosting Genetec's external technical reputation.

Learnings from the Hackathon

Genetec engineers expressed their enthusiasm about stepping into the FPGA and AI space for the first time in this hackathon. The recognition garnered for their mAP performance reflected their core strengths focused on ensuring robust design capabilities. They also noted the invigorating speed and innovation brought by student-led groups, highlighting the merit of diverse ideas and flexible approaches as pivotal components in evolving technical horizons.

Looking ahead, Genetec aims to actively participate in similar events, emphasizing the continuous enhancement of both technical skills and proposal capabilities within the FPGA and AI landscape. The company also recognizes the necessity of knowledge sharing among young and mid-level engineers, ensuring skill development and comprehensive internal engagement in this evolving domain.

Future Initiatives in FPGA and AI

Going forward, Genetec aspires to articulate the benefits related to performance indicators, including FPS and mAP, to clearly visualize the introduction effects and economic advantages to clients. This strategy will strengthen their competitive edge in the AI technology market. The company is committed to enhancing its development framework in FPGA and AI technology while focusing on external collaboration and talent development.

About Genetec

Founded in July 1985, Genetec is led by President Kenji Ueno, with its headquarters located in the Shinjuku Island Tower. The company is dedicated to delivering innovative systems that integrate software and hardware, creating engineering solutions that optimize and enhance productivity in manufacturing environments. Additionally, Genetec provides GPS services that ensure safety and reassurance through location-based information, exemplified by their disaster information-sharing app 'Coco-Dayo'. For further information, please visit Genetec's official website.

For media inquiries, please contact Genetec’s Marketing Division at PR@genetec.co.jp.