#Japan #Tokyo #Yokohama National University #Ajinomoto AGF #Milus Co.

Collaborating to Visualize Emotional States

Ajinomoto AGF Inc., under the leadership of President Norihito Shimamoto, has made strides in emotional health by undertaking joint research aimed at developing a system that visualizes emotional states. Partnered with Milus Co., led by President Shigenobu Minami, and Yokohama National University, where Professor Keisuke Shima and Associate Professor Takayuki Mukaida are involved, the results of this collaborative project were presented at the IEEE International Conference on Systems, Man, and Cybernetics 2025 held in Austria from October 5 to October 8.

Background and Objectives of the Research

Ajinomoto AGF has emphasized the importance of contributing to individual emotional health as a key objective for 2030. To achieve this goal, the company recognizes the need to develop technologies to decode and visualize the emotional states of individuals in addition to its current focus on the science of deliciousness. By adapting to the emotional needs of consumers, Ajinomoto AGF aims to propose the value of beverages tailored to different lifestyles.

To this end, a system utilizing biological signals to continuously visualize changes in emotional states was pursued through a collaborative research initiative that commenced in October 2022.

Key Highlights from the IEEE SMC 2025 Presentation

Traditionally, research in emotion estimation using biological signals has relied on scenarios that induce significant emotional changes, such as watching videos or listening to music. However, estimating emotional changes during routine activities like eating has been regarded as a challenging task. The recent research efforts aimed at developing an AI model able to accurately estimate emotional changes during eating, showcasing a portion of the findings at the IEEE SMC 2025.

The methodology employs readily measurable biological signals, like electrocardiograms recorded via wearable sensors, providing real-time emotion estimation capabilities.

The research findings, representing the collaborative effort among the partners, were publicly presented by Yokohama National University during the conference.

Future Directions

By obtaining and accumulating data from a larger pool of participants, the research team aims to refine the system for accurately analyzing and visualizing the emotional states of diverse consumers. Such advancements would enrich understanding of human emotions in various situations, aiding in the creation of improved services and experiences. Ajinomoto AGF is committed to contributing towards a society where positive emotions bloom.

Contributions of Each Organization

• - Milus Co.: Responsible for converting the emotion estimation models into AI formats, implementing, and developing applications.
• - Yokohama National University: Tasked with selecting biological signals and constructing emotion estimation models from biological data.
• - Ajinomoto AGF: Focused on designing trials to acquire biological data, alongside considerations for subjective sensory assessments and data acquisition methodologies.

About Milus Co.

Headquartered in Sapporo, Hokkaido, Milus is a university-certified startup aiming to visualize emotions, physicality, and sleep using sensors and cutting-edge analytical technologies. Visit Milus Co. website.

Profiles of Key Researchers

Professor Keisuke Shima

After completing his doctoral studies at Hiroshima University, Professor Shima has held positions such as an Associate Professor at Yokohama National University. He focuses on integrating human mechanisms with intelligent robotics to provide human support. Visit Shima Laboratory website.

Associate Professor Takayuki Mukaida

With a background in information science, Mukaida's work revolves around emotion estimation models and anomaly detection, having joined Yokohama National University as an assistant professor in 2022. Visit Mukaida Lab.

About Ajinomoto AGF Inc.

Located in Shibuya, Tokyo, Ajinomoto AGF is a core company within the Ajinomoto Group, promoting the corporate slogan "Always, Phew! AGF®". The company strives for a sustainable society focused on health and connections among people, aiming to enhance daily living. Visit Ajinomoto AGF website.