#Japan #Tokyo #Hibiya Park #Hylable #Bird Voice

Discovering Hibiya Park's Avian Wonders with the New Bird Voice Mode

In an innovative leap for inclusivity and ecological engagement, Hylable Inc., based in Toshima, Tokyo, has officially launched the 'Bird Voice Mode' as an upgrade to their dynamic visualization system tailored for Hibiya Park. This mode enables park visitors to visually trace the calls of various birds present within the serene surroundings of the park, bridging the gap between sound and sight and fostering a deeper connection with nature.

Bridging Nature and Technology

Hibiya Park, a green oasis in the heart of Tokyo, is known for its stunning landscapes and diverse wildlife. The newly developed Bird Voice Mode is designed to enhance this experience by converting auditory signals—specifically, the calls of birds—into visual representations. Visitors can now not only hear but 'see' the vibrant avian activity around them. By identifying bird species and their locations based on their songs, visitors can appreciate the rich ecosystem that thrives within this urban park.

This groundbreaking feature is part of a broader initiative by the Tokyo Metropolitan Government aimed at making Hibiya Park more accessible to everyone, regardless of age, gender, nationality, or any disabilities. As Tokyo prepares to host the Deaflympics in 2025, the focus on ensuring a fully inclusive experience is more relevant than ever.

The Motivation Behind 'Bird Voice Mode'

The genesis of the Bird Voice Mode can be attributed to Hylable's participation in the 'UPGRADE with TOKYO' pitch event. The event's 37th theme, aiming for a park that is enjoyable for all, provided a platform for Hylable to showcase their vision and innovation. Winning this event has catalyzed the development and prototyping of the Hibiya Park visualization system, which visualizes crowd activity and bird calls in real-time.

For many nature lovers, identifying bird species by sound is a rewarding experience. However, for those untrained in birdwatching or individuals with hearing impairments, recognizing bird calls can be challenging. The Bird Voice Mode eases this process by highlighting the exact locations where birds are vocalizing, empowering all visitors to engage with Hibiya Park's natural charm effortlessly.

How the System Works

The visualization system ingeniously combines AI technology capable of identifying bird calls recorded from within Hibiya Park. It utilizes Hylable's patented technology, Bamiel, designed for outdoor settings to precisely locate sound sources. As a result, users can instantly ascertain which birds are singing and when, while also accessing a compiled list of detected bird species over the past week, helping them plan their visits more effectively.

Moreover, the visual representation of birds includes illustrations created by Hylable, as well as textual descriptions of the calls, enhancing the overall user experience. This form of visualization enriches engagement and heightens visitors' satisfaction, encouraging more frequent and meaningful interactions with nature.

Future Enhancements

Looking ahead, Hylable aims to expand its recognition capabilities for a broader array of bird species and enhance the detailed visual representation of their habitats within the park. This commitment to technological innovation not only opens doors for new recreational experiences but also spreads awareness and appreciation for urban biodiversity.

Hylable’s ambition extends beyond Hibiya Park, with plans to implement the foundational technology—'Hylable for Parks'—in various green spaces across the city and explore visualization techniques for other animal sounds. This aligns with their mission to enrich communication through sound environment analysis, making nature more accessible and enjoyable for all.

For more information about the Hibiya Park visualization system, please visit Hibiya Park Visualization. Keep an eye on future developments as Hylable continues to innovate and expand the ways we interact with nature in urban spaces.