Liberaware Selected as Host Company for CHIBA OPEN INNOVATION PROGRAM

Liberaware's Initiatives in Open Innovation

Introduction

Liberaware, a company headquartered in Chiba, Japan, has recently been announced as one of the four host companies for the CHIBA OPEN INNOVATION PROGRAM 'PORT'. This initiative is organized by the Chiba Prefectural government and operated by eiicon, a Tokyo-based company. The program aims to enhance collaboration between various stakeholders in the robotics, AI, and IoT sectors to foster innovation and solve common industrial challenges.

The Purpose Behind the Program

Understanding the pressing issues faced by different industries, Liberaware has focused on using advanced technology to address challenges related to infrastructure inspections and maintenance. The struggle of labor shortages, along with the decreasing number of skilled workers, safety management concerns, and fragmented information sharing poses significant challenges across various fields. With the introduction of cutting-edge technologies like robotics and AI, these systems are primarily implemented as isolated solutions rather than integrated into a cohesive framework. This situation necessitates an innovative approach to successfully tackle the intertwined challenges of modern industries.

Liberaware aims to break through these complex issues and expedite digital transformation (DX) across various sectors by leveraging the CHIBA OPEN INNOVATION PROGRAM. The company encourages partnerships that can unite the strengths of robotics, AI, and IoT to create effective solutions for the future.

Program Overview

This collaborative project focuses on seamlessly connecting data acquisition, visualization, analysis, and display in equipment maintenance. With Liberaware's spatial iPaaS, LAPIS, as the foundation, the program seeks to unite businesses with physical operations and companies possessing robotics, drones, AI, IoT, and sensing technologies. This collaborative effort aims to transform real-time data into actionable insights that can directly influence business operations and decision-making processes.

Focus Areas for Collaboration

1. Robotics and IoT Data Acquisition Technologies: Companies that can implement advanced sensors, cameras, and other tools to capture important data such as sound, vibration, and thermal readings from equipment.
2. AI and Data Analysis Technologies: Firms capable of detecting and analyzing anomalies, deterioration, or predictive failures from images, audio, and sensor data.
3. 3D and Digital Twin Technologies: Organizations that can visualize the operational state and changes over time using point clouds, 3D models, and location data.

Application and Schedule

The program is open to startups, SMEs, large corporations, and research institutions across Japan. Companies interested in contributing to the collaborative themes proposed by the host companies can submit their ideas or technologies related to these areas. The application period ends on September 30, 2026.

- Application Start Date: September 1, 2026
- Information Session: An online program briefing will take place on September 9, 2026, from 14:00 to 15:00, allowing for questions and detailed explanations regarding the initiative. Interested parties can register via the provided link.

In October 2026, document selection and interviews will commence, followed by matching with collaborative project initiation planned for November.

Future Perspectives

Liberaware aspires to generate innovation from Chiba, embodying the qualities of a 'port.' By connecting its offerings, including the LAPIS platform and specialized drones, with advanced technologies from partner companies nationwide, it aims to usher in a new wave of innovation. The goal is not only to conduct proof-of-concept experiments but also to establish a sustainable business model that fosters growth for both Liberaware and its partners. This initiative hopes to contribute significantly to a safe society and the sustainable development of the entire industrial landscape.

About Liberaware

Liberaware is dedicated to creating a safe society and specializes in developing drones designed for inspections and assessments of confined, dark, and hazardous indoor environments. The company also analyzes and delivers image data gathered through its drones, providing infrastructure inspection and maintenance solutions. On its journey to visualize unseen risks, Liberaware continues to strive for a secure and peaceful society for all.

Company Details

- Name: Liberaware Inc.
- CEO: Hongkyu Min
- Location: 3-3-1, Chuo, Chiba City, Chiba, Japan
- Established: August 22, 2016
- Business Areas:

- Drone Services: Inspection, surveying services using drones, and sales and rental of self-developed drones.
- Digital Twin Services: Image processing and data analysis services using acquired data from drones, along with licensing of proprietary techniques.
- Solution Development: Custom development services encompassing hardware and software projects.