Revolutionizing Safety Management in Logistics with NOK's Sotto Brain Technology

NOK's Innovative Use of Sotto Brain in Logistics Safety Management

In a groundbreaking collaboration, NOK Corporation has introduced its advanced Sotto Brain technology to enhance safety management in logistics, particularly aimed at reducing forklift accidents. This initiative is part of a larger project involving five companies, including Sompo Japan Insurance, under the Forklift Accident Prevention Program. The project aims to visualize operators' conditions during forklift operations through brainwave data, thereby working towards decreasing accident risks in the logistics sector.

The Role of Sotto Brain Technology

The Sotto Brain, developed by NOK, utilizes a sophisticated dry rubber electrode system to accurately capture subtle brainwave data, a technology initially designed for dementia prevention. This innovation allows for the collection of brainwave information while operators engage in their daily tasks without hindering their performance. The data obtained provides vital insights into the cognitive states of operators, enabling a proactive approach to safety management.

Development and Implementation in Logistics

NOK's commitment to practical applications is evident in its dual focus on both technological development and proof of concept within its own logistics centers. The design of the helmet-type device embedding the Sotto Brain technology was tailored specifically for the conditions of logistics work. By repositioning existing brainwave measurement devices as an all-in-one helmet, NOK ensured that operators could engage in their duties without any added burden, thus allowing for real-time monitoring of their mental state.

The practical application of this technology was validated through experimental trials conducted from July 2025 to January 2026, where the effectiveness of the brainwave monitoring in an active work environment was confirmed. This hands-on approach distinguishes NOK's method as not merely theoretical but grounded in real-world application.

Future Endeavors and Applications

Looking ahead, NOK plans to leverage the data and insights gained from the Forklift Accident Prevention Program to enhance the precision of biological data acquisition. This advancement will aid in the prediction of potential accidents and facilitate risk assessments, further refining safety protocols in logistics and eventually expanding into other sectors like manufacturing. The goal is to implement a data-driven safety management system that can adapt to various operational environments.

Contribution to Worker Safety

NOK Group's mission, encapsulated as "Essential Core Manufacturing," emphasizes the importance of visibility in operator conditions to enhance workplace safety. Through initiatives like the Forklift Accident Prevention Program, NOK is committed to innovating solutions that prioritize the safety and well-being of workers across different industries.