With Tokyo 2020 just under seven months away now, sports fans are eagerly awaiting the return of the much loved Summer Olympics. However, it’s not just the sports that have got people talking about Tokyo 2020! This year’s Olympics promise to be the most futuristic yet, with plans for robots, ultra-high-definition display screens and even self-driving taxis!
In this month’s WOW blog, Soumac takes a look at some of the exciting technologies set to be on display at the 2020 Olympic games:
1. Self-driving taxis
Toyota, the world’s largest automaker, will be offering visitors to Tokyo 2020 the opportunity to travel to and from the games in self-driving taxis. While Japanese law still requires there to be a driver behind the wheel in case of an emergency, the SAE Level-4 will be able to operate itself and perform necessary functions without any human intervention.
As well as this, Toyota will provide the games with 3,700 mobility products and/or vehicles – 90% of which will be electric.
2. Panasconic’s Power Suit
The Panasonic Power Suit will be worn by spotters/loaders tasked during the powerlifting competitions at Tokyo 2020. The wearable robotic suit weighs just 4.5 kg and triggers sensors when torso movements are sensed; to allow the operation of an in-built motor, which helps with the load on the waist and back – therefore making the job safer, easier and faster.
3. Robots…everywhere!
From mascots to event guides, robots will be everywhere at Tokyo 2020. The two official mascots, Miraitowa and Someity, will be on hand to greet visitors, while the HSR (Human Support Robot) will provide guidance to seats for guests at venues and transport snacks, merchandise and other light cargo.
As well as customer service, robots will also be used to help support the competitions taking place. The Field Support Robot (FSR) for example will help game marshals retrieve objects such as javelins and shot-puts.
4. 3D athlete tracking
Intel and Alibaba have teamed up to create an AI system which will extract 3D motion from standard camera feeds, and overlay insights and data to produce visualisations for broadcasters. Track & field events will be the main focus of 3DAT at Tokyo 2020, with the 100m final seen as the ultimate showcase.
5. VR training
Intel have also teamed up with the International Olympic Committee (IOC) to deliver virtual reality training for the athletes and coaches, to help them improve their athletic performance and also use data to boost training, rehabilitation and also provide more objective feedback on an athlete’s performance.
Check back here after Tokyo 2020 to see our review of the tech!
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