Fukushima Experimental Offshore Floating Wind Farm Project Second Phase Update

June 21, 2015, 9:30 pm

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7MW Oil Pressure Drive-Type Floating Wind Turbine "Fukushima Sinpuu"

TOKYO, Jun 22, 2015 - (JCN Newswire) - A consortium comprised of Marubeni (project integrator), the University of Tokyo (technical advisor), Mitsubishi, Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, Japan Marine United, Mitsui Engineering & Shipbuilding, Nippon Steel & Sumitomo Metal, Hitachi, Furukawa Electric, Shimizu, and Mizuho Information & Research, has been participating in an experimental offshore floating wind farm project sponsored by the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry since March 2012. Assembly works of the 7MW oil pressure drive-type wind turbine, which is the world's largest scale one, on the three-column semi-sub floater at Onahama port has been successfully completed and delivery of the floater to testing area is going to start shortly as part of the second term.

1. Outline of construction works in the second term:
- Assembly and setting of 7MW oil pressure drive-type and 5MW downwind-type floating
wind turbines, delivery of the facilities to the testing area, and connection to the undersea cable.
- Operation & Maintenance of the facilities
- Data acquisition and analysis.

2. Work progress to date:

- Preceding works i.e. installation of chains, anchors and undersea cables at the testing area has been successfully completed.
- Delivery of the three-column semi-sub floater from Nagasaki to Onahama port has been successfully completed.
- Installation of 7MW oil pressure drive-type floating wind turbine on the floater at Onahama port has been successfully completed.

- Procurement of chains and anchors, and production of high-voltage riser cable have been successfully completed.
- Parts procurement and construction of 5MW downwind-type floating wind turbine is in progress.

3. Next Step
The following activities need to be completed to start operation of the power facilities:
- Schedule will be changed depending on the meteorological and sea conditions

About Mitsubishi Heavy Industries

Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, Ltd. (TSE: 7011, 'MHI'), headquartered in Tokyo, Japan, is one of the world's leading heavy machinery manufacturers. MHI's diverse lineup of products and services encompasses shipbuilding, power plants, chemical plants, environmental equipment, steel structures, industrial and general machinery, aircraft, space rocketry and air-conditioning systems. For more information, please visit the MHI website at www.mhi.co.jp.

Contact:
Hideo Ikuno
h.ikuno@daiya-pr.co.jp 
+81-3-6716-5277

↧

Engineers Bring Creativity and Enthusiasm to Science Workshops for Kids

June 21, 2015, 10:45 pm

≫ Next: U.S. FDA Approves Eisai's Antiepileptic Agent Fycompa as Adjunctive Treatment For Primary Generalized Tonic-Clonic Seizures

≪ Previous: Fukushima Experimental Offshore Floating Wind Farm Project Second Phase Update

Collision safety demonstration

TOKYO, Jun 22, 2015 - (JCN Newswire) - From next month through March 2016, Toyota will hold a series of free-of-charge science workshops in Japan, with the aim of encouraging children to take an interest in science and technology through fun, hands-on demonstrations.

As part of an annual program that began in 1996, the workshops are held both in public venues (such as science museums) and facilities owned by Toyota and its affiliates. To date, a total of 29,200 elementary school children have taken part in 389 workshops. This year, in collaboration with local museums, a total of 18 workshops are scheduled to be held around Japan. In addition, a larger summer lecture will be held for the first time at the Toyota Commemorative Museum of Industry and Technology in Nagoya.

Instructors are volunteer members of the Toyota Engineering Society1, and use their specialized knowledge to teach children about a wide variety of scientific and technological topics, such as vehicle aerodynamics, vehicle collision safety, hovercraft and more. In all, seven teams will teach a total of nine programs in their respective fields of expertise.

As part of Toyota's ongoing efforts to support recovery efforts in the Tohoku region, the teams will also visit children's homes in disaster areas and present lectures in Iwate and Fukushima Prefectures.

President Akio Toyoda commented: "Since our earliest days, we have emphasized that manufacturing is about developing people. Since it is people that make things, I believe that it is extremely important to develop individuals' creative and reasoning faculties. All kids should know the joy of making something with their own hands. It's practical, a lot of fun, and can even help motivate you for the challenges you face later on. Nothing would make me happier than to contribute to that."

Organizers in each region will handle applications, while Toyota will provide event information (in Japanese) at www.toyota.co.jp/nazenani/.

About Toyota

Supported by people around the world, Toyota Motor Corporation (TSE: 7203; NYSE: TM), has endeavored since its establishment in 1937 to serve society by creating better products. As of the end of December 2013, Toyota conducts its business worldwide with 52 overseas manufacturing companies in 27 countries and regions. Toyota's vehicles are sold in more than 170 countries and regions. For more information, please visit www.toyota-global.com.

Contact:
Toyota Motor Corporation
Public Affairs Division
Global Communications Department
Tel: +81-3-3817-9926

↧

U.S. FDA Approves Eisai's Antiepileptic Agent Fycompa as Adjunctive Treatment For Primary Generalized Tonic-Clonic Seizures

June 21, 2015, 11:56 pm

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TOKYO, Jun 22, 2015 - (JCN Newswire) - Eisai Co., Ltd. (Headquarters: Tokyo, CEO: Haruo Naito, "Eisai") announced today that its U.S. subsidiary Eisai Inc. has received approval from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for an indication expansion regarding the use of its in-house developed antiepileptic agent Fycompa (perampanel hydrate) as an adjunctive treatment of primary generalized tonic-clonic (PGTC) seizures in patients with epilepsy 12 years of age and older.

The FDA's decision to approve the indication expansion was based on a placebo-controlled clinical phase III study (Study 332) of Fycompa in 164 patients aged 12 years and older with PGTC seizures. In the study, a statistically significant reduction in PGTC seizure frequency was observed in the Fycompa group compared with placebo (Fycompa: -76.5%, placebo: -38.4%, p
Fycompa is a first-in-class AED discovered and developed by Eisai. The agent is a highly selective, noncompetitive AMPA receptor antagonist that reduces neuronal hyperexcitation associated with seizures by targeting glutamate activity at postsynaptic AMPA receptors. Fycompa was approved as an adjunctive treatment for partial-onset seizures (with or without secondarily generalized seizures) in patients with epilepsy 12 years of age and older in the United States in October 2012 and was launched in January 2014.

Generalized tonic-clonic seizures can cause significant injury to patients from falling down suddenly and are the most important risk factor associated with sudden unexpected death in epilepsy (SUDEP)(1), making them one the most severe forms of epileptic seizures. Through this indication expansion, Fycompa can now be used as an adjunctive treatment for primary, in addition to, secondarily generalized tonic-clonic seizures.

Epilepsy affects approximately 2.9 million people in the United States. As approximately 30% of patients with epilepsy are unable to control their seizures with currently available AEDs(2), this is a disease with significant unmet medical needs. Eisai considers epilepsy a therapeutic area of focus and by providing multiple treatment options in addition to Fycompa as part of an extensive epilepsy product portfolio, Eisai seeks to make continued contributions to address the diverse needs of, as well as increasing the benefits provided to, patients with epilepsy and their families.

1. About Fycompa (perampanel)

Fycompa is a first-in-class AED discovered and developed by Eisai. With epileptic seizures being primarily mediated by the neurotransmitter glutamate, the agent is a highly selective, noncompetitive AMPA receptor antagonist that reduces neuronal hyperexcitation associated with seizures by targeting glutamate activity at postsynaptic AMPA receptors.

The agent is currently approved in more than 45 countries and territories as an adjunctive treatment (once-daily oral dose) of partial-onset seizures with or without secondarily generalized seizures in patients with epilepsy 12 years of age and older, and has been launched in over 25 countries.

Applications seeking an additional indication for the adjunctive treatment of PGTC seizures in patients with epilepsy 12 years of age and older were filed with regulatory authorities in Europe and the United States in August 2014. In addition to receiving approval in the United States, the European Medicines Agency's Committee for Medicine Products for Human Use issued a positive opinion regarding this indication in Europe in May 2015. Applications are also under review in Switzerland and Russia.

Furthermore, a Phase III study of Fycompa in partial-onset seizures (Study 335) conducted in Asia, including Japan, met its primary endpoint. The company plans to submit a regulatory application covering both PGTC seizures and partial-onset seizures based on Study 332 and Study 335 in Japan during the first half of fiscal 2015. Meanwhile, Eisai is conducting Phase II studies in Europe and the United States for partial-onset epilepsy in pediatric patients.

2. About Study 3323

Study Title: A Multicenter, Double-blind, Randomized, Placebo-controlled, Parallel-group Study to Evaluate the Efficacy and Safety of Adjunctive Perampanel in Primary Generalized Tonic Clonic (PGTC) Seizures

Study population: 164 patients aged 12 years and older with PGTC seizures receiving one to a maximum of three anti-epileptic drugs

Primary objective: To demonstrate the efficacy of adjunctive perampanel therapy, compared to placebo, on PGTC seizures

Treatment administered: (Placebo-controlled) Perampanel oral tablets, once daily, up to 8 mg/day (Titration Period), randomized dose 8 mg/day (Maintenance Period)

Duration of treatment: Prerandomization Phase (Screening and Baseline Periods): up to 12 weeks; Randomization Phase (treatment): 17 weeks (Titration Period, 4 weeks; Maintenance Period, 13 weeks); Extension Phase: over 38 weeks

Study locations: U.S., Europe, Japan, Asia

Primary endpoints: - Percent change in PGTC seizure frequency (U.S.): Percent change from baseline in PGTC seizure frequency per 28 days during treatment
- Responder rate (EU): Percentage of patients who experience a 50% or greater reduction in PGTC seizure frequency per 28 days in the Maintenance period relative to baseline

Results: - A reduction in PGTC seizure frequency of 76.5% was observed in the Fycompa group, which was statistically significant when compared to a reduction of 38.4% for placebo (p- The responder rate for Fycompa was 64.2%, which was a statistically significant improvement over the responder rate for placebo of 39.5% (p=0.0019).
- For patients who had been unable to adequately control PGTC seizures with existing AEDs, 30.9% of patients treated with Fycompa were free of PGTC seizures (12.3% for placebo) during the 13 week Maintenance period.
Adverse events: The most common adverse events (>10% in the Fycompa arm and greater than placebo) for Fycompa and placebo were, respectively, dizziness (32.1% vs 6.1%), fatigue (14.8% vs 6.1%), headache (12.3% vs 9.8%), somnolence (11.1% vs 3.7%) and irritability (11.1% vs 2.4%).

3. About Generalized Tonic-Clonic Seizures

Epilepsy affects approximately 2.9 million people in the United States, 2.4 million people in Europe (G5: United Kingdom, France, Germany, Italy and Spain), 1 million people in Japan, and more than 50 million people worldwide.

Generalized tonic-clonic seizures can cause significant injury to patients from falling down suddenly and is the most important risk factor associated with sudden unexpected death in epilepsy (SUDEP) 1, making them one of the most severe forms of epileptic seizures.

For the majority of patients, a generalized tonic-clonic seizure begins with a loss of consciousness without any prior warning symptoms and a sudden contraction of the tonic muscles, causing the patient to fall down (tonic phase). This is followed by violent convulsions (clonic phase) until the muscles finally relax, and the patient is left with a disturbance of consciousness. As this is a serious event, it is seen as a major hindrance on daily life. While the seizure generally only lasts a few minutes, the patient will often feel confused, groggy or drowsy for a short period of time before returning to normal.

(1) Shorvon S, Tomson T. "Sudden unexpected death in epilepsy." Lancet, 2011; 378:2028-2038
(2) "The Epilepsies and Seizures: Hope Through Research. What are the epilepsies?" National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke, accessed June 19, 2015, http://www.ninds.nih.gov/disorders/epilepsy/detail_epilepsy.htm#230253109
(3) French JA, et al. "Adjunctive Perampanel for Treatment of Drug-Resistant Primary Generalized Tonic-Clonic Seizures in Patients with Idiopathic Generalized Epilepsy: A Double-Blind, Randomized, Placebo-Controlled Phase III Trial."

Abstract. 68th American Epilepsy Society (AES) Annual Meeting, 2014; 2.389

About Eisai

Eisai Co., Ltd. (TSE: 4523; ADR: ESALY) is a research-based human health care (hhc) company that discovers, develops and markets products throughout the world. Eisai focuses its efforts in three therapeutic areas: integrative neuroscience, including neurology and psychiatric medicines; integrative oncology, which encompasses oncotherapy and supportive-care treatments; and vascular/immunological reaction. Through a global network of research facilities, manufacturing sites and marketing subsidiaries, Eisai actively participates in all aspects of the worldwide healthcare system. For more information about Eisai Co., Ltd., please visit www.eisai.com.

Contact:
Public Relations Department,
Eisai Co., Ltd.
+81-3-3817-5120

↧

VietinBank to Launch the VietinBank-JCB Hello Kitty Card in Vietnam

June 22, 2015, 3:30 am

≫ Next: Fujitsu Laboratories Develops Data Transfer Technology that Increases Speed of Remote File Access

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Hanoi and Tokyo, Jun 22, 2015 - (JCN Newswire) - Vietnam Joint Stock Commercial Bank for Industry and Trade (VietinBank) and JCB International Co., Ltd. (JCBI), the international operations subsidiary of JCB Co., Ltd., officially held a magnificent launch event for the VietinBank-JCB Hello Kitty Card with Hello Kitty as theme on June 19 2015. The card targets young customers and ladies who are fond of the cute Hello Kitty.

In addition to the features of international credit card such as making payment via Internet or merchants' POS; money withdrawal at ATMs, Hello Kitty card is a key opening up a world of marvelous Hello Kitty gifts. VietinBank-JCB Hello Kitty Cardmembers get Hello Kitty related rewards when they spend with the card. Making purchases at any JCB merchants, cardmembers earn points to be converted into attractive Hello Kitty gifts such as a suitcase, backpack, water bottle, and toothbrush kit.

Cardmembers also experience many optimum utilities such as special discounts at partner merchants of Vietinbank, JCBI and Sanrio Wave - Hello Kitty patent management company, JCB Plaza customer service network that provides support for travelers at 62 locations around the world, customer service 24/7 in English, Vietnamese and Japanese and special concierge service (applicable for Platinum card only).

At the same time, VietinBank-JCB Hello Kitty Card is also a ticket for joining Hello Kitty festivals held in Vietnam with lots of furnishing offers. Enjoyable activities and precious moments falling into Hello Kitty magic world are most of little girls' desire all over the world.

Hello Kitty is a very popular character not only in the Japan market where she was born, same as JCBI, but also in international markets including Vietnam. VietinBank is the first and unique bank issuing Hello Kitty card in Vietnam. The cooperation among VietinBank, Sanrio Wave and JCBI promisingly satisfies millions customers and their family.

About VietinBank

In Vietnamese market, VietinBank card products and services have received the trust of numerous customers. Until now, the card business activities of VietinBank have achieved encouraging results, being the market leader in Vietnam cards market with more than 23% market share of the domestic debit card; approximately 30% market share of the international card; nearly 33% market share in developing POS payment system in Vietnam, etc.

Being one of the leading banks that apply modern technology in product development, VietinBank has recently launched 05 new technology products and services including MPOS service, online merchant service, non-card cash withdrawal service, ATM deposit / currency conversion at the ATM, nonphysical international E-Fast Card, etc. It is supposed to support customers' access to modern payment methods, minimizing the amount of cash hold and increasing safety without carrying cash alongside.

About JCB

JCB is a major global payment brand and a leading credit card issuer and acquirer in Japan. JCB launched its card business in Japan in 1961 and began expanding worldwide in 1981. Its acceptance network includes about 29 million merchants and over a million cash advance locations in 190 countries and territories. JCB cards are now issued in 19 countries and territories, with over 89 million card members. As part of its international growth strategy, JCB has formed alliances with more than 350 leading banks and financial institutions globally to increase merchant coverage and card member base. As a comprehensive payment solution provider, JCB commits to provide responsive and high-quality service and products to all customers worldwide. For more information, visit: www.jcbcorporate.com/english

Note: JCB statistics included in About JCB are as of the end of March 2015.

Contact
VietinBank Card Center
Tel: +84-439418868
Email: cardcenter@vietinbank.vn
Website: www.vietinbank.vn/card

JCB International Co., Ltd.
Ayako Tanaka
Corporate Planning Department
Tel: +81-3-5778-8390
Email: jcbinternational-pr@info.jcb.co.jp

↧

Fujitsu Laboratories Develops Data Transfer Technology that Increases Speed of Remote File Access

June 22, 2015, 2:00 pm

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Kawasaki, Japan, Jun 23, 2015 - (JCN Newswire) - Fujitsu Laboratories has developed a software-based technology to increase data-transfer speeds for accessing files on remote enterprise file-sharing servers.

When accessing remote file-sharing servers in the cloud, slow upload and download speeds for typical file-sharing systems due to network latency has been an issue.

By using a newly developed software that relays communications between the client and server, the number of communications made has been significantly reduced, lowering the effects of network latency. This communication frequency occurs when obtaining information on multiple file names and file sizes on a remote network. In an internal experiment, file transfers were confirmed to be up to ten times faster when dealing with multiple small files. Transfers of large files can be up to twenty times faster when combined with the deduplication technology(1) Fujitsu Laboratories announced last year.

By simply installing this software on a client and server, increased speeds for file access for existing file-sharing systems can be achieved.

Background

In file sharing, files are stored on server connected to a network and multiple clients can share the same files. This is used by enterprises to share information and manage documents. Previously, Individual locations have maintained their own file-sharing servers on-site, but in order to improve security and reduce operating costs through combined management, server consolidation has become more common as have opportunities to remotely access file-sharing servers.

With two network file-sharing protocols that are widely used in file-sharing systems, CIFS and SMB(2), the effects of network latency can impose significant wait times for accessing files, creating a demand for improving speed.

Technologies Issues

Fujitsu Laboratories has already developed a deduplication technology for use with remote data transfers, which accelerates the process by avoiding retransmissions of previously sent data. This technology can be applied to a variety of situations, but it has had limited effectiveness with the CIFS and SMB file-sharing protocols because of their unique processes. Improving networks and installing specialized hardware are other ways of increasing speeds, but these are expensive, and installation of specialized hardware has limited effectiveness when handling large numbers of small files only a few kilobytes in size.

The CIFS and SMB file-sharing protocols have the following unique processes and challenges.

- When copying a folder containing a large number of files, all of the file-attribute information is requested for each file, and the accumulation of these requests in a remote network causes significant latency (Figure 1).
- When sending relatively large files, their data is split into pieces tens of kilobytes in size, and header information is attached to each data. Because this header information is updated each time, the transmitted data becomes different even if it sends the same file, which makes deduplication ineffective.

About the Technology

Fujitsu Laboratories has developed a technology that accelerates data transfers for file-sharing servers using only software. Key features of the technology are as follows.

1. Collectively proxy read-ahead for multiple files and proxy response

With this technology, a module is installed on both the client and server that accelerates data transfers (Figure 2).

The server-side module: 1) identifies when a folder containing multiple files starts to download; 2) read-ahead on the client proxy the batch of all the files downloaded; 3) these read-ahead files are bundled together and transmitted to the client-side module; and 4) the client-side module then replies to a request to get data with its server proxy.

In this way, the amount of communications generated by obtaining file attributes, such as multiple file names and file sizes, is greatly reduced, as are the delays influenced by network latency.

2. Effective deduplication due to header separation

Fujitsu Laboratories developed a technology that works on the server-side module to separate the transmitted data into the headers and the contents of file. This makes deduplication of retransmitted data more precise, leading to more effective network traffic reduction.

Results

In Fujitsu Laboratories' internal experiment, software that implements this technology was found to have the following effects.

- Increase in speed of multiple small file transfers: In a test environment that simulated the network latency for accessing a file-sharing server in Kawasaki from a location in Kyushu, batch downloads of folders containing one hundred 1-KB files was found to be ten times faster.
- Increase in speed of large file transfers: In the same test environment, a download of a single 10 MB file was found to be as much as twenty times faster (compared with having no acceleration technologies such as deduplication).

This technology is implemented as software and can be installed on existing file-sharing systems. It can also be applied to cloud and server-virtualization environments, mobile devices, etc., and can be extended to a variety of network services. This technology enables more efficient file sharing and joint development between remote locations.

Future Plans

Fujitsu Laboratories plans to implement this technology into a product as a function for a WAN optimization solution during fiscal 2015, after internal testing at Fujitsu.

Read the full release, with figures, at: http://bit.ly/1JeLa1p

[1] Deduplication technology: Deduplication and compression reduce the volume of data being transmitted, effectively increasing data-transmission speeds as much as ten times. See April 8, 2014, press release: http://bit.ly/1Fx8Sya.

[2] CIFS and SMB: CIFS stands for Common Internet File System; SMB stands for Server Message Block. Both are widely used communications protocols for file sharing. Strictly speaking, CIFS represents SMB 1.0, but is widely referred to as SMB.

About Fujitsu Laboratories

Founded in 1968 as a wholly owned subsidiary of Fujitsu Limited, Fujitsu Laboratories Ltd. is one of the premier research centers in the world. With a global network of laboratories in Japan, China, the United States and Europe, the organization conducts a wide range of basic and applied research in the areas of Next-generation Services, Computer Servers, Networks, Electronic Devices and Advanced Materials. For more information, please see: http://jp.fujitsu.com/labs/en.

About Fujitsu Ltd

Fujitsu is the leading Japanese information and communication technology (ICT) company offering a full range of technology products, solutions and services. Approximately 162,000 Fujitsu people support customers in more than 100 countries. We use our experience and the power of ICT to shape the future of society with our customers. Fujitsu Limited (TSE: 6702) reported consolidated revenues of 4.8 trillion yen (US$46 billion) for the fiscal year ended March 31, 2014. For more information, please see www.fujitsu.com.

Contact:
Fujitsu Limited
Public and Investor Relations
Tel: +81-3-3215-5259
URL: www.fujitsu.com/global/news/contacts/

Technical Contacts

Fujitsu Laboratories Ltd.
Monozukuri Technologies Laboratory
E-mail: CIFS2015@ml.labs.fujitsu.com

↧

NEC Establishes "Design Center" for Promoting Business Development

June 22, 2015, 10:15 pm

≫ Next: Fujitsu Launches Virtual Product Simulator, a Production-Preparation Solution with Support for Massive Data, Such as for Train Cars

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TOKYO, Jun 23, 2015 - (JCN Newswire) - NEC Corporation (NEC; TSE: 6701) announced today the establishment of a "Design Center" team in order to promote business development through information and communications technologies (ICT) that strengthen its social solutions business, improve social infrastructure and reinforce its global competitiveness.

The Design Center will make use of creative sensibilities and expert technological methods in order to co-develop visions and business concepts with customers and to develop solutions that promote NEC's social solutions business. NEC has already capitalized on the Design Center concept with the city of Tigre in Argentina to shape a future vision for the city. Efforts towards the realization of this vision include the introduction of city-wide surveillance systems that employ advanced technologies such as facial recognition(1). With the establishment of the Design Center, approximately fifty business designers from throughout the NEC Group will assemble in order to commence activities and gradually reinforce its systems.

In June 2014, NEC identified six megatrends facing economies and societies around the world over the next ten years. In light of these, NEC formulated seven themes for social value creation(2), including "Safer Cities & Public Services" and "Lifeline Infrastructure," that it is seeking to realize.

"Through the establishment of the Design Center, NEC aims to grasp the essence of the complex and diverse factors behind current issues, create innovative business concepts and accelerate the creation of social solutions," said Osamu Fujikawa, General Manager, Corporate Business Development Division, NEC Corporation.

About NEC Corporation

NEC Corporation is a leader in the integration of IT and network technologies that benefit businesses and people around the world. By providing a combination of products and solutions that cross utilize the company's experience and global resources, NEC's advanced technologies meet the complex and ever-changing needs of its customers. NEC brings more than 100 years of expertise in technological innovation to empower people, businesses and society. For more information, visit NEC at http://www.nec.com.

Based on its Mid-term Management Plan 2015, the NEC Group globally provides "Solutions for Society" that promote the safety, security, efficiency and equality of society. Under the company's corporate message of "Orchestrating a brighter world," NEC aims to help solve a wide range of challenging issues and to create new social value for the changing world of tomorrow. For more information, please visit http://www.nec.com/en/global/about/solutionsforsociety/message.html.

Contact:
Seiichiro Toda         
s-toda@cj.jp.nec.com 
+81-3-3798-6511

↧

Fujitsu Launches Virtual Product Simulator, a Production-Preparation Solution with Support for Massive Data, Such as for Train Cars

June 23, 2015, 12:41 am

≫ Next: Lexus Creates Hoverboard of the Future

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TOKYO, Jun 23, 2015 - (JCN Newswire) - Fujitsu Limited and Digital Process Ltd. today announced the introduction of the new series of FUJITSU Manufacturing Industry Solution Virtual Product Simulator (VPS), a digital production-preparation tool developed by Digital Process for the discrete manufacturing industry, which uses 3D modeling to help analyze product-assembly processes. Fujitsu begins global sales of the new VPS series today.

Highly complex assembly processes, such as for train cars, automobiles, or aircraft, can involve hundreds of thousands of separate parts, with massive volumes of 3D data representing them. The VPS line is being expanded with the addition of VPS VridgeR, which performs design analysis (manufacturability) using 3D data on full-assembly models(1) to ensure there is no component interference in the assembly process, and VPS GP4 (Global Protocol for Manufacturing), which enables production-line simulations. In addition, performance and operability have been improved, and processing times have been dramatically reduced for the other existing VPS products.

VPS is the global product for digital production-preparation solutions from Fujitsu and Digital Process, which are strengthening their sales efforts in Japan and around the world.

These products will be exhibited at the 26th Design Engineering & Manufacturing Solutions Expo, running June 24-26 at Tokyo Big Sight.

VPS is packaged software that uses a product's 3D data created in CAD to provide cohesive support for the varied work processes of assembly production planning, from product review to manufacturing instructions. There is a growing need to use 3D data in a cohesive set of tools that cover design analysis, production-line layout, and process simulations, even for massive-scale manufacturing projects, such as complete trains and aircraft.

To respond to that need, both Digital Process's Dipro VridgeR(2), which enables design analysis of massive-scale full-assembly models to be performed, and FUJITSU Manufacturing Industry Solution GP4, which enables production-line layout and process analysis and has had its rendering performance improved to handle massive 3D files, have been added to the VPS product line and their interoperability with existing VPS series products has been improved. As a result, the work processes, from design analysis to production preparation, for massive scale 3D data are supported with a unified approach.

Features of the New Series

1. Cohesive support for design analysis (manufacturability) of massive-scale products and production-line simulations

1) Addition of VPS VridgeR

Businesses handling massive-scale products with hundreds of thousands of parts, such as train cars, automobiles, or aircraft, have in the past performed design analysis section by section, but with VPS VridgeR, they can easily perform design reviews and interference checks on massive-scale full-assembly models. This makes work processes involved in digital prototyping more efficient overall, and improves design quality.

With its addition to the VPS product line, this product now handles VPS-formatted data and has improved interoperability with other VPS products.

2) Addition of VPS GP4

The addition of VPS GP4 to the VPS line and improved interoperability with other VPS products makes it possible to input process information on product-assembly procedures analyzed in VPS Manufacturing for a 3D virtual manufacturing line, as well as 3D shape information, to simulate efficient operator stances and movements, optimized positioning of operators along the production line, and time required to perform operations. Also, rendering performance has been dramatically improved, now taking as little as one-tenth the time, to smoothly render large-scale products and the production lines handling them.

2. Improved performance and operability throughout the VPS series to shorten design & development cycles

In VPS Digital Mockup, which performs design analysis (manufacturability) to check for component interference during assembly, the processing performance of the clearance-check function, which determines whether there is adequate spacing between parts, has been drastically improved, now taking as little as one-hundredth the time. In addition, the interference-check and clearance-check functions can now compare current results with past results to determine whether instances of interference have been corrected, further improving the design process.

Functionality has been added to VPS IOC Express, which simulates the operation of manufacturing equipment, that, for large-scale equipment with numerous moving parts, can automatically link the moving parts on a robotic arm to the movement of the arm.

These improvements to the performance and operability of existing VPS products will help businesses shorten their development cycles.

About Fujitsu Ltd

Fujitsu is the leading Japanese information and communication technology (ICT) company offering a full range of technology products, solutions and services. Approximately 162,000 Fujitsu people support customers in more than 100 countries. We use our experience and the power of ICT to shape the future of society with our customers. Fujitsu Limited (TSE: 6702) reported consolidated revenues of 4.8 trillion yen (US$46 billion) for the fiscal year ended March 31, 2014. For more information, please see www.fujitsu.com.

Contact:
Fujitsu Limited
Public and Investor Relations
Tel: +81-3-3215-5259
URL: www.fujitsu.com/global/news/contacts/

Fujitsu Laboratories Ltd.
ICT Systems Laboratories 
Server Technologies Lab
E-mail: Retimer_ISSCC2015@ml.labs.fujitsu.com

↧

Lexus Creates Hoverboard of the Future

June 23, 2015, 10:46 pm

≫ Next: GRA Inc. Celebrates First Anniversary of ICHIGO WORLD

≪ Previous: Fujitsu Launches Virtual Product Simulator, a Production-Preparation Solution with Support for Massive Data, Such as for Train Cars

Brussels, Jun 24, 2015 - (JCN Newswire) - Luxury automotive brand Lexus has partnered with world leading experts in super conductive technology to create one of the most advanced Hoverboards ever developed.

Mark Templin, Executive Vice President at Lexus International said; "At Lexus, we constantly challenge ourselves and our partners to push the boundaries of what is possible. That determination, combined with our passion and expertise for design and innovation, is what led us to take on the Hoverboard project. It's the perfect example of the amazing things that can be achieved when you combine technology, design and imagination."

The Lexus Hoverboard operates using magnetic levitation to achieve amazing frictionless movement. Liquid nitrogen cooled superconductors and permanent magnets combine to allow Lexus to create the impossible.

Wrapped in a design that is uniquely Lexus, the Hoverboard features the iconic Lexus spindle grille signature shape and uses materials found in the luxury car brand, from the high tech to natural bamboo.

The Lexus Hoverboard is part of the fourth project in the Lexus 'Amazing in Motion' campaign that showcases the creativity and innovation of the Lexus brand.

Testing of the Lexus Hoverboard will be taking place in Barcelona, Spain over the coming weeks until Summer 2015.

About Toyota

Supported by people around the world, Toyota Motor Corporation (TSE: 7203; NYSE: TM), has endeavored since its establishment in 1937 to serve society by creating better products. As of the end of December 2013, Toyota conducts its business worldwide with 52 overseas manufacturing companies in 27 countries and regions. Toyota's vehicles are sold in more than 170 countries and regions. For more information, please visit www.toyota-global.com.

Contact:
Toyota Motor Corporation
Public Affairs Division
Global Communications Department
Tel: +81-3-3817-9926

↧

GRA Inc. Celebrates First Anniversary of ICHIGO WORLD

June 24, 2015, 9:23 pm

≫ Next: Toyota's Latest Virtual Crash Dummy Software Can Model Occupant Posture before Collisions

≪ Previous: Lexus Creates Hoverboard of the Future

TOKYO, Jun 25, 2015 - (JCN Newswire) - GRA Inc., a farming corporation located in Yamamoto-cho in Miyagi Prefecture, northeastern Japan, today celebrated the first anniversary of its strawberry farm "ICHIGO WORLD". GRA is the recipient of 50 million yen in support funds from the Mitsubishi Corporation Disaster Relief Foundation (MCDRF), which complements grants already obtained from Abukuma Shinkin Bank, a local financial institution.

GRA was founded shortly after the Great East Japan Earthquake and Tsunami of March 2011 with the aim of contributing to economic revival in Yamamoto-cho. Prior to the earthquake, Yamamoto-cho was the largest strawberry producing area in all of Tohoku, but their fields suffered extensive damage during the tsunami, destroying the town's main livelihood. Drawing on the IT service management expertise of its founder, GRA worked in collaboration with local farmers to establish state-of-the art facilities for the production high quality strawberries, branded as "MIGAKI-ICHIGO,"(1) for sale across Japan. GRA also produces "MIGAKI-ICHIGO Mousseux" its own brand of sparkling wine made from strawberries.

ICHIGO WORLD is aiming to produce 20 tons of strawberries a year, with a target to 50 thousand bottles of its "MIGAKI-ICHIGO Mousseux" brand of sparkling wine, and 30 thousand units of canned sparkling wine, to be marketed as "MIGAKI-ICHIGO Canette". The initiative serves as a model for 'sixth industry' agriculture, as it seeks to turn out high value-added products from agricultural commodities. After the opening of the facility, which hires five local farmers, GRA has also been proactive in developing a support project for farmers through the creation of a farmers' franchise.

Over four years have passed since the disasters hit Tohoku in 2011, but recovery in Miyagi Prefecture and other affected areas is far from complete. MCDRF's support to GRA is part of its aim to help boost economic revitalization and generate employment in these areas. The Foundation intends to continue collaborating with local financial institutions such as Abukuma Shinkin Bank to support efforts aimed at industry revitalization and employment creation, and overall economic recovery in areas affected by the disasters.

REFERENCE INFORMATION

GRA Inc.

Location: 47 Sakura Zutsumi Aza Yamadera, Yamamoto-cho, Watari-gun, Miyagi, Japan
Established0: January 2012
Capital: 34.2 million yen
Business Activities:
Production, sales and export of agricultural products; research and development of agricultural technologies; production region branding; manufacture of processed goods; development of farm management systems; and promotion of overseas production.
Representative: Hiroki Iwasa, Representative Director/CEO

Abukuma Shinkin Bank

Headquarters: 2-4 Haramachi-ku, Sakae-cho, Minamisoma, Fukushima, Japan
Date Established: September 1950
Capital: 10.7 billion yen
Business Activities: Savings, loans and other financial services
Representative: Yoshihiro Ota, President

Mitsubishi Corporation Disaster Relief Foundation

Headquarters: 2-3-1 Marunouchi, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo, Japan
Founded: March 2012 (incorporated as a Foundation in May 2012)
Endowment: 10 billion yen
Purpose:
To contribute to recovering in regions affected by the Great East Japan Earthquake or March 2011 through the provision of scholarships and grants for NPOs and social welfare corporations as well as for the recovery of industry and job creation.
Representatives:
Chairman, Ken Kobayashi (President and CEO, Mitsubishi Corporation)
Deputy Chairman, Yasuhito Hirota (Executive Vice President, Mitsubishi Corporation)
Executive Director, Yoshiyuki Nojima (General Manager, CSR and Environmental Affairs Department, Mitsubishi Corporation)

About Mitsubishi Corporation

Mitsubishi Corporation (MC; TSE: 8058) is a global integrated business enterprise that develops and operates businesses across virtually every industry including industrial finance, energy, metals, machinery, chemicals, foods, and environmental business. MC's current activities are expanding far beyond its traditional trading operations as its diverse business ranges from natural resources development to investment in retail business, infrastructure, financial products and manufacturing of industrial goods. With over 200 bases of operations in approximately 80 countries worldwide and a network of over 500 group companies, MC employs a multinational workforce of nearly 60,000 people. For more information, please visit www.mitsubishicorp.com.

Contact:
Mitsubishi Corporation
Telephone:+81 3 3210 2171 
Facsimile:+81 3 5252 7705

↧

Toyota's Latest Virtual Crash Dummy Software Can Model Occupant Posture before Collisions

June 25, 2015, 10:41 pm

≫ Next: Showa Denko to Split and Transfer Phenolic Resin Business

≪ Previous: GRA Inc. Celebrates First Anniversary of ICHIGO WORLD

THUMS Version 5

Toyota City, Japan, Jun 26, 2015 - (JCN Newswire) - Studies(1) show that roughly half of drivers take defensive action (such as sudden braking or steering) to avoid collisions, with vehicle occupants commonly bracing themselves at the same time. Occupant posture-whether braced or relaxed-has a significant effect on body movement during a collision. However, current human surrogate models used in virtual crash simulations are unable to simulate the reflexive defensive actions that humans take in the moments before an imminent collision, such as bracing one's body for impact.

To address this, Toyota has successfully added a new muscle model capable of simulating human postural states in the latest version of its Total Human Model for Safety (THUMS) virtual human model software. THUMS Version 5 can simulate a variety of states from relaxed to braced, thus enabling more detailed computer analysis of injuries caused by collisions.

Until now, THUMS was only able to simulate changes in posture post-collision; however with THUMS Version 5's new muscle model, changes in occupant posture prior to collisions can now be simulated.

This makes it possible to more accurately study the effectiveness not only of seatbelts, airbags and other safety equipment, but also of active safety technologies such as pre-collision systems. In turn, this will lead to development of active safety technologies that better protect vehicle occupants.

THUMS Version 5 is available through Tokyo-based JSOL Corporation and ESI Japan. THUMS has already been adopted by dozens of companies, including automobile and parts manufacturers, and is contributing to vehicle safety research all over the world.

(1) Based on 2007 data compiled by the Institute for Traffic Accident Research and Data Analysis

About THUMS

By simulating the many characteristics of various parts of the human body, from its overall shape to its bones and skin, THUMS enables detailed analysis of bone fractures, severed ligaments, and other injuries that can occur during a vehicle collision.

Toyota began developing THUMS in 1997 in cooperation with Toyota Central R&D Labs, Inc. THUMS Version 1 was completed and commercially launched in 2000, followed by Version 2 in 2004, which added a face and bones to the model. Version 3, launched in 2006, added a precise brain model. Version 4, with detailed modeling of internal organs, was completed and released in 2010.

About Toyota

Supported by people around the world, Toyota Motor Corporation (TSE: 7203; NYSE: TM), has endeavored since its establishment in 1937 to serve society by creating better products. As of the end of December 2013, Toyota conducts its business worldwide with 52 overseas manufacturing companies in 27 countries and regions. Toyota's vehicles are sold in more than 170 countries and regions. For more information, please visit www.toyota-global.com.

Contact:
Toyota Motor Corporation
Public Affairs Division
Global Communications Department
Tel: +81-3-3817-9926

↧

Showa Denko to Split and Transfer Phenolic Resin Business

June 25, 2015, 11:00 pm

≫ Next: Eisai to Launch New Fine Granule Formulation of Tachyarrhythmia Treatment Tambocor Suitable for Pediatric Patients in Japan

≪ Previous: Toyota's Latest Virtual Crash Dummy Software Can Model Occupant Posture before Collisions

TOKYO, Jun 26, 2015 - (JCN Newswire) - Showa Denko (SDK) (TOKYO:4004) decided at its board meeting today to split and transfer its phenolic resin business to its wholly owned subsidiary AICA SDK PHENOL CO.,LTD. (AICA SDK PHENOL). SDK and AICA SDK PHENOL today concluded an absorption-type company split agreement. SDK took these steps as parts of the procedure for transferring its phenolic resin business to Aica Kogyo Company, Limited (Aica) (TOKYO & NAGOYA:4206), that SDK announced on April 27, 2015.

Since this is a case of "simplified absorption-type company split" involving SDK and its wholly owned subsidiary, part of the details are omitted from the scope of disclosure.

1. Purpose of company split

Phenolic resins have wide ranging uses including electronic materials, housing equipment, and paints. SDK has been providing its domestic customers with phenolic resins in various states such as liquid, lumps, powder, and grains. However, the size of the domestic market for industrial phenolic resins has been a little less than 100,000 tons a year for some years now. In order to pursue further growth of this business in the future, it is necessary for phenolic resin manufacturers to make inroads into the foreign markets which are expected to grow.

Under the circumstances, SDK had already concluded the final agreement with Aica, which actively promotes phenolic resin business overseas, to transfer SDK's phenolic resin business to Aica. Prior to the transfer of its phenolic resin business to Aica, SDK is scheduled to split and transfer the business to AICA SDK PHENOL on September 1, 2015, and transfer 85% of the shares of AICA SDK PHENOL to Aica on that day.

2. Outline of company split

(a) Schedules
Today, SDK approved the absorption-type company split agreement at its board meeting, and AICA SDK PHENOL approved the same agreement at its board meeting and shareholders' meeting. Also today, the agreement was concluded between the two companies. The agreement is scheduled to take effect on September 1, 2015.

Note: For SDK, the splitting company, this transaction falls under the category of a simplified company split according to Paragraph 2, Article 784 of the Companies Act. Thus SDK will not refer the company split agreement to its shareholders' meeting for approval.

(b) Method of split
This will be an absorption-type company split, with SDK serving as the splitting company and AICA SDK PHENOL as the succeeding company.

(c) Allotment of AICA SDK PHENOL shares following the company split
AICA SDK PHENOL will deliver 100 common shares to SDK at the time of the absorption-type company split.

(d) Change in capital stock following the split
There will be no increase or decrease in the mount of SDK's capital stock.

(e) Rights and obligations to be transferred
With regard to the rights and obligations pertaining to SDK's phenolic resin business, AICA SDK PHENOL will succeed to all of these rights and obligations.

(f) Prospects for the discharge of liabilities
As for the liabilities AICA SDK PHENOL will assume following the absorption-type company split, we consider that there will be no problem with regard to their discharge.

3. Profile of the two companies involved in the company split agreement (As of June 26, 2015)

- Splitting company

Company name: Showa Denko K.K.
Head office: 13-9, Shiba Daimon 1-chome, Minato-ku, Tokyo
President: Hideo Ichikawa
Scope of business: Production and sale of petrochemicals, gas products, specialty chemicals, electronics, inorganics, aluminum, etc.
Capital stock: 140,564 million yen
Establishment: June 1, 1939
No. of shares issued: 1,497,112,926
Accounting term: Ending December 31
Major shareholders:
- The Master Trust Bank of Japan (Trust Account) 4.30%
- Japan Trustee Services Bank (Trust Account) 4.17%
- Fukoku Mutual Life Insurance 3.86%
- Dai-ichi Life Insurance 2.52%
- Sompo Japan NIpponkoa Insurance 2.11%
Net assets: 320,504 million yen (Consolidated)
Total assets: 1,011,083 million yen (Consolidated)
Net assets per share: 210.16 yen (Consolidated)
Net sales: 876,580 million yen (Consolidated)
Operating income: 20,915 million yen (Consolidated)
Ordinary income: 22,102 million yen (Consolidated)
Net income: 3,500 million yen (Consolidated)
Net income per share: 2.38 yen (Consolidated)

- Succeeding company

Company name: AICA SDK PHENOL CO.,LTD.
Head office: 1021-1 Senbongui, Tomizuka-cho, Isesaki City, Gunma Prefecture
President: Nobuhiro Kanai
Scope of business: Production and sale of phenol resin products
Capital stock: 5 million yen
Establishment: May 15, 2015
No. of shares issued: 100
Accounting term: Ending March 31
Major shareholders: Showa Denko 100%
Net assets: 10 million yen
Total assets: 10 million yen
Net assets per share: 100,000 yen

Notes:
Figures for the section of major shareholders for SDK are as of December 31, 2014. SDK holds 68,831,000 shares as treasury stock. However, SDK excluded itself from the above list of top-five major shareholders.
Figures for the sections from net assets through net income per share for SDK are based on its statement of accounts for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2014.

4. Outline of the business to be split

(a) Scope of business subject to split
SDK's production and sale of phenolic resins

(b) Performance of the business division to be split (for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2014):
Net sales: 4,030 million yen
(SDK will stop selling phenol resins as of the effective date, in principle.)

(c) Items of assets and liabilities to be split, and their amounts (as of December 31, 2014):
Current assets: 457 million yen
Noncurrent assets: 1,916 million yen
Noncurrent liabilities: 8 million yen

5. Situation of the listed company and the succeeding company after split

- Listed company

Company name: Showa Denko K.K.
Head office: 13-9, Shiba Daimon 1-chome, Minato-ku, Tokyo
President: Hideo Ichikawa
Scope of business: Production and sale of petrochemicals, gas products, specialty chemicals, electronics, inorganics, aluminum, etc.
Capital stock: 140,564 million
Accounting term: Ending December 31

- Succeeding company after absorption-type company split

Company name: AICA SDK PHENOL CO.,LTD.
Head office: 1021-1 Senbongui, Tomizuka-cho, Isesaki City, Gunma Prefecture
President: Nobuhiro Kanai
Scope of business: Production and sale of phenol resin products
Capital stock: 5 million yen
Accounting term: Ending March 31

6. Future prospect

This company split will have only slight influence on SDK's performance. There is no change in our consolidated performance forecast for 2015 due to this absorption-type company split.

Press release: www.sdk.co.jp/assets/files/english/news/2015/20150626_sdknewsrelease_e.pdf

About Showa Denko

Showa Denko K.K. ('SDK'; TSE: 4004, US: SHWDF) is a major manufacturer and marketer of chemical products serving a wide range of fields ranging from heavy industry to the electronic and computer industries. SDK makes petrochemicals (ethylene, propylene), aluminum products (ingots, rods), electronic equipment (hard disks for computers) and inorganic materials (ceramics, carbons). The company has overseas operations and a joint venture with Netherlands-based Montell and Nippon Petrochemicals to make and market polypropylenes. In March 2001, SDK merged with Showa Denko Aluminum Corporation to strengthen the high-value-added fabricated aluminum products operations, and is today developing next-generation optical communications-use wafers. For more information, please visit www.sdk.co.jp/english/.

Contact:
Public Relations Office
Phone: 81-3-5470-3235

↧

Eisai to Launch New Fine Granule Formulation of Tachyarrhythmia Treatment Tambocor Suitable for Pediatric Patients in Japan

June 25, 2015, 11:29 pm

≫ Next: TMC Announces Results for May 2015

≪ Previous: Showa Denko to Split and Transfer Phenolic Resin Business

TOKYO, Jun 26, 2015 - (JCN Newswire) - Eisai Co., Ltd. (Headquarters: Tokyo, CEO: Haruo Naito, "Eisai") announced today that it will launch Tambocor Fine Granules 10%, a new formulation of anti-arrhythmic agent Tambocor (flecainide acetate), on June 29 in Japan. Eisai received marketing and manufacturing approval for this formulation on February 16, 2015, and the product was added to Japan's National Health Insurance drug price list on June 19 of the same year.

This product is a fine granule formulation that can be adjusted to account for age and body surface area for administration to pediatric patients, and can be administered to patients who have difficulty taking tablets. In addition, Eisai has made special efforts, such as reducing the bitterness, to make Tambocor Fine Granules easy to administer.

Tambocor suppresses tachyarrythmia by blocking cardiac sodium channels and slowing down cardiac conduction. Approved and launched as Tambocor Tablets in Japan in 1991, the drug was originally indicated for the treatment of tachyarrythmia in adults, and was approved for the treatment of tachyarrythmia (paroxysmal atrial fibrillation/flutter, paroxysmal superventricular, ventricular) in pediatric patients in May 2010. Furthermore, Tambocor is the only sodium channel blocking agent in Japan to be approved for the treatment of tachyarrythmia in pediatric patients.

Pediatric arrhythmia not only causes heart palpitations, dizziness, shortness of breath and other symptoms that impact the daily lives of patients, it is also said to be one of the most common causes of sudden death among children. Regarding pediatric arrhythmia, Eisai has received approval of additional indications for pediatric patients for Tambocor Tablets in May 2010, and for the calcium channel blocker Vasolan Tablets 40 mg and Vasolan for intravenous injection 5 mg in May 2011. By providing the easy to measure and administer Tambocor Fine Granules 10% in addition to Tambocor Tablets, Eisai will continue to make further contributions to address their needs of patients with tachyarrhythmia.

Notes to editors:

1. About Tambocor Fine Granules 10%
1) Product Name
Tambocor Fine Granules 10%
2) Generic Name
Flecainide acetate
3) Indications, Dosage & Administration
- Indications
The following conditions where other antiarrhythmic drugs cannot be used or are ineffective:
Adults: Tachyarrhythmia(paroxysmal atrial fibrillation/flutter, ventricular)
Pediatric patients: Tachyarrhythmia (paroxysmal atrial fibrillation/flutter, paroxysmal superventricular, ventricular)
- Dosage & Administration
Adults:
- Tachyarrhythmia (paroxysmal atrial fibrillation/flutter)
The usual initial adult dose is 100 mg (1 g as fine granule) of flecainide acetate daily. If the effect is insufficient, the dose may be increased up to 200 mg (2 g as fine granule) daily, which should be administered in two divided doses. The dose may be reduced depending on the patient's age and symptoms.
- Tachyarrhythmia (ventricular)
The usual initial adult dose is 100 mg (1 g as fine granule) of flecainide acetate daily. If the effect is insufficient, the dose may be increased up to 200 mg (2 g as fine granule) daily, which should be administered in two divided doses. The dose may be adjusted depending on the patient's age and symptoms.
Pediatric patients:
- Tachyarrhythmia (paroxysmal atrial fibrillation/flutter, paroxysmal superventricular, ventricular)
The usual oral dosage for infants over 6 months old or over, toddlers, and children is 50-100 mg/m2 (body surface area) [0.5-1 g/m2 (body surface area) as fine granule] of flecainide acetate daily in two to three divided doses. The dose may be adjusted depending on the patient's age and symptoms. The maximum dose is 200 mg/m2 per day [2 g/m2 (body surface are) as fine granule] daily.
The usual oral dosage for infants under the age of 6 months is 50 mg/m2 (body surface area) [0.5 g/m2 (body surface area) as fine granule] of flecainide acetate daily in two to three divided doses. The dose may be adjusted depending on the patient's age and symptoms. The maximum dose is 200 mg/m2 per day [2 g/m2 (body surface area) as fine granule] daily.
4) Price
Tambocor Fine Granules 10%: 202.20 yen per 1 g containing 10% (package price: 10,110 yen)
5) Packaging
Bottles of 50 g

About Eisai

Eisai Co., Ltd. (TSE: 4523; ADR: ESALY) is a research-based human health care (hhc) company that discovers, develops and markets products throughout the world. Eisai focuses its efforts in three therapeutic areas: integrative neuroscience, including neurology and psychiatric medicines; integrative oncology, which encompasses oncotherapy and supportive-care treatments; and vascular/immunological reaction. Through a global network of research facilities, manufacturing sites and marketing subsidiaries, Eisai actively participates in all aspects of the worldwide healthcare system. For more information about Eisai Co., Ltd., please visit www.eisai.com.

Contact:
Public Relations Department,
Eisai Co., Ltd.
+81-(0)3-3817-5120

↧

TMC Announces Results for May 2015

June 29, 2015, 12:54 am

≫ Next: Browse LNG Project in Australia Commences Front-End Engineering and Design

≪ Previous: Eisai to Launch New Fine Granule Formulation of Tachyarrhythmia Treatment Tambocor Suitable for Pediatric Patients in Japan

Toyota City, Japan, Jun 29, 2015 - (JCN Newswire) - Toyota Motor Corporation announces its production, domestic sales, and export results for May 2015, including those for subsidiaries Daihatsu Motor Co., Ltd., and Hino Motors, Ltd.

May 2015 Highlights (year-on-year)

Production in Japan

Toyota
- Decreased
Daihatsu
- Decreased
Hino
- Decreased
Toyota + Daihatsu + Hino
- Decreased

Sales in Japan

Toyota
- First decrease in two months
- Lexus vehicle sales totaled 3,036 units (23.9 percent increase)
- Minivehicle sales totaled 1,546 units (0.2 percent decrease)
- 46.0 percent share of market excluding minivehicles (0.9 percentage point decrease)
- 29.2 percent share of market including minivehicles (2.1 percentage point increase)
Daihatsu
- Decreased
- Minivehicle sales totaled approximately 36,400 units (28.0 percent decrease)
- 28.9 percent share of minivehicle market (3.4 percentage point decrease)
Hino
- Second consecutive month of increase
- Standard truck sales totaled approximately 1,900 units (28.0 percent increase); second consecutive month of increase
- 36.0 percent share of the truck* market (5.5 percentage point increase)
Toyota + Daihatsu + Hino
- Decreased
- 41.1 percent share of market including minivehicles (0.7 percentage point decrease)

Exports

Toyota
- Decreased, due to decreased exports to Latin America, Europe, Asia, The Middle East and Africa
Daihatsu
- Increased, due to increased exports to Latin America, Asia, Oceania and the Middle East; fourth consecutive month of increase
Hino
- Decreased, due to decreased exports to North America, Latin America, Europe, Asia and the Middle East
Toyota + Daihatsu + Hino
- Decreased

Production outside Japan

Toyota
- Decreased due to decreased production in North America, Asia and Africa
Daihatsu
- Increased due to increased production in Indonesia; first increase in nine months
Hino
- Increased due to increased production in Asia; third consecutive month of increase
Toyota + Daihatsu + Hino
- Decreased

About Toyota

Supported by people around the world, Toyota Motor Corporation (TSE: 7203; NYSE: TM), has endeavored since its establishment in 1937 to serve society by creating better products. As of the end of December 2013, Toyota conducts its business worldwide with 52 overseas manufacturing companies in 27 countries and regions. Toyota's vehicles are sold in more than 170 countries and regions. For more information, please visit www.toyota-global.com.

Contact:
Toyota Motor Corporation
Public Affairs Division
Global Communications Department
Tel: +81-3-3817-9926

↧

Browse LNG Project in Australia Commences Front-End Engineering and Design

June 30, 2015, 8:16 pm

≫ Next: Showa Denko Expands Utilization of Used Plastic to Produce Ammonia

≪ Previous: TMC Announces Results for May 2015

Image courtesy of Shell

TOKYO, Jul 1, 2015 - (JCN Newswire) - The Browse Joint Venture ("Browse JV"), in which Mitsubishi Corporation ("MC", Head Office: Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo, President and CEO: Ken Kobayashi) and Mitsui & Co., Ltd. ("Mitsui", Head Office: Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo, President and CEO: Tatsuo Yasunaga) participate through Japan Australia LNG (MIMI Browse) Pty Ltd. ("MIMI Browse", equally owned by MC and Mitsui), has decided to commence front-end engineering and design (FEED) for the Browse LNG Project in Australia, having completed its preliminary front-end engineering and design (Pre-FEED). The target for a final investment decision is set for the second half of 2016. Browse JV has also agreed to integrate the East Browse and West Browse joint ventures, and as a result, the working interests held by MIMI Browse in the integrated venture will be 14.40%.

Browse JV aims to commercialize natural gas and condensate resources from the Browse gas and condensate fields located off the coast of Western Australia. Browse JV intends to develop the Browse LNG Project by utilizing Shell's floating LNG technology and Woodside's offshore development expertise.

MC and Mitsui, through MIMI Browse, will continue to carry out the necessary studies in an effort to realize the earliest commercialization of the Browse LNG Project.

About Mitsubishi Corporation

Mitsubishi Corporation (MC; TSE: 8058) is a global integrated business enterprise that develops and operates businesses across virtually every industry including industrial finance, energy, metals, machinery, chemicals, foods, and environmental business. MC's current activities are expanding far beyond its traditional trading operations as its diverse business ranges from natural resources development to investment in retail business, infrastructure, financial products and manufacturing of industrial goods. With over 200 bases of operations in approximately 80 countries worldwide and a network of over 500 group companies, MC employs a multinational workforce of nearly 60,000 people. For more information, please visit www.mitsubishicorp.com.

Contact:
Mitsubishi Corporation
Telephone:+81 3 3210 2171 
Facsimile:+81 3 5252 7705

↧

Showa Denko Expands Utilization of Used Plastic to Produce Ammonia

July 1, 2015, 12:15 am

≫ Next: Toyota, Nissan, and Honda Agree on Details of Joint Support for Hydrogen Infrastructure Development

≪ Previous: Browse LNG Project in Australia Commences Front-End Engineering and Design

Used plastic gasification facility

TOKYO, Jul 1, 2015 - (JCN Newswire) - Showa Denko (SDK) (TOKYO: 4004) has completed the expansion of used-plastic gasification facility at the Kawasaki Plant, and held a ceremony for the completion today.

As part of its basic chemicals business, SDK is producing ammonia at Kawasaki. SDK processes used plastic to obtain part of hydrogen necessary for the synthesis of ammonia. As an industrial material, ammonia is used in the production of synthetic fibers and metal surface treatment for automotive and construction machinery parts. The demand for ammonia used for removing nitrogen oxides contained in exhaust gas from thermal electric power plants and other facilities has been increasing in recent years. Furthermore, SDK's liquefied ammonia (trade name: Ecoann(TM)) has been approved and rated high as "eco-friendly goods for procurement" by major electric power companies because the product is partly based on used plastic.

In January 2015, SDK's plan to raise the percentage of feedstock from used plastic was recognized by the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry as eligible for the ministry's interest subsidy program for the promotion of effective utilization of resources. Under the program, SDK received a loan from the Development Bank of Japan Inc., and invested in the expansion of used-plastic gasification facility at the Kawasaki Plant*. After the expansion, the percentage of hydrogen from used plastic to produce Ecoann(TM) will increase to 65%.

The method to produce hydrogen from used plastic entails significantly lower environmental burden compared to the conventional methods to produce hydrogen from petroleum-derived raw materials. By providing products indispensable for protecting the environment and improving social infrastructure, SDK will continue meeting the expectations of society and local communities.

* SDK's news release on February 16, 2015: "Showa Denko Receives Government Subsidy for Resource Utilization"

About Showa Denko

Showa Denko K.K. ('SDK'; TSE: 4004, US: SHWDF) is a major manufacturer and marketer of chemical products serving a wide range of fields ranging from heavy industry to the electronic and computer industries. SDK makes petrochemicals (ethylene, propylene), aluminum products (ingots, rods), electronic equipment (hard disks for computers) and inorganic materials (ceramics, carbons). The company has overseas operations and a joint venture with Netherlands-based Montell and Nippon Petrochemicals to make and market polypropylenes. In March 2001, SDK merged with Showa Denko Aluminum Corporation to strengthen the high-value-added fabricated aluminum products operations, and is today developing next-generation optical communications-use wafers. For more information, please visit www.sdk.co.jp/english/.

Contact:
Public Relations Office
Phone: 81-3-5470-3235

↧

Toyota, Nissan, and Honda Agree on Details of Joint Support for Hydrogen Infrastructure Development

July 1, 2015, 1:20 am

≫ Next: New Pixis 'Mega' Adds Stature to Toyota's Minivehicle Lineup

≪ Previous: Showa Denko Expands Utilization of Used Plastic to Produce Ammonia

Press briefing on new joint support project for the development of hydrogen station infrastructure

Toyota City, Japan, Jul 1, 2015 - (JCN Newswire) - Toyota Motor Corporation, Nissan Motor Co., Ltd., and Honda Motor Co., Ltd. have agreed on key details regarding a new joint support project for the development of hydrogen station infrastructure in Japan. In addition to partially covering the operating costs of hydrogen stations, the three automakers have also agreed to help infrastructure companies deliver the best possible customer service and create a convenient, hassle-free refueling network for owners of fuel cell vehicles (FCVs).

The joint project (conducted alongside the Japanese government's support for hydrogen stations) will partially cover hydrogen station operating expenses incurred by infrastructure companies, and was first announced on February 12. Furthermore project partners will jointly raise awareness regarding these support measures, in order to encourage new companies to enter the hydrogen supply business. Financial assistance will be provided through the Research Association of Hydrogen Supply/Utilization Technology(1) (HySUT), which is setting up a project to stimulate demand for FCVs.

Furthermore, to help popularize FCVs by creating a reliable hydrogen fueling environment and ensuring peace of mind for FCV owners, the three automakers will work with infrastructure companies to take the following steps:

1)Using information such as customer needs and hydrogen station operating rates to improve customer service levels
2)Improving the convenience of hydrogen stations by increasing the number of days they are open, extending their business hours, enhancing and providing operational information, and developing hydrogen station infrastructure that is easy to access
3)Raising public awareness about FCVs and hydrogen

Background

For FCVs to gain popularity, creating attractive products is only half of the equation. Hydrogen station infrastructure must also be developed to ensure ease-of-use for customers; however, infrastructure companies face difficulties constructing and operating hydrogen stations. FCVs are a new entry into the market, and hydrogen station revenues are expected to remain low due to the limited number of cars currently on the road.

In June 2014, the Japanese government unveiled its Strategic Road Map for Hydrogen and Fuel Cells, which involves subsidizing the construction of hydrogen stations and reviewing regulations. Furthermore, in February, the Japanese government decided to partially subsidize hydrogen station operational expenses in order to help stimulate new demand for FCVs. In such ways, the Japanese government continues to contribute to the development of hydrogen station infrastructure.

Meanwhile, Toyota launched the Mirai FCV in late 2014, while Honda has announced its plan to bring an FCV to market before April 2016 and Nissan is also planning to market an FCV as early as 2017.

Through this project, the three automakers plan to steadily support hydrogen station infrastructure from a medium-term perspective, until FCVs become well established in the market and the development of hydrogen station infrastructure is well underway (potentially around 2020).

(1) Established in July 2009 based on the Act on Research and Development Partnership concerning Mining and Manufacturing Technology, with the goal of building hydrogen supply infrastructure and developing a business environment conducive to widespread use of FCVs by 2015. There are currently 19 member companies/organizations, including energy infrastructure companies as well as automakers.

About Toyota

Supported by people around the world, Toyota Motor Corporation (TSE: 7203; NYSE: TM), has endeavored since its establishment in 1937 to serve society by creating better products. As of the end of December 2013, Toyota conducts its business worldwide with 52 overseas manufacturing companies in 27 countries and regions. Toyota's vehicles are sold in more than 170 countries and regions. For more information, please visit www.toyota-global.com.

Contact:
Toyota Motor Corporation
Public Affairs Division
Global Communications Department
Tel: +81-3-3817-9926

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New Pixis 'Mega' Adds Stature to Toyota's Minivehicle Lineup

July 1, 2015, 10:50 pm

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Pixis Mega G SA (front-wheel drive)

Toyota City, Japan, Jul 2, 2015 - (JCN Newswire) - Offering substantial storage space and capable of seating four adults(1) comfortably, Toyota's new Pixis Mega is a minivehicle that stands above the rest in its class. Launched today and available at more than 200 Toyota dealerships throughout Japan, the Pixis Mega brings excellent driver visibility and a spacious interior to the "mini" market.

The Pixis Mega was created to offer versatility matched with the diverse needs and lifestyles of car-buyers in Japan. Increasing the cabin height of the vehicle to a class-leading 1,455 mm ensures that four adults can be seated in the spacious interior comfortably. Despite the vehicle's total height of 1,835 mm, the suspension and body structure have been overhauled to ensure stable handling. The eye-point has been set at 1,387 mm, similar to that of a minivan, achieving exceptional visibility from the driver's seat and improving the overall driving experience.

Following the Pixis Space, Van/Truck and Epoch, the Mega is the latest member of the Pixis family supplied by Daihatsu Motor Co., Ltd. to Toyota under an OEM agreement.

Driver visibility comparable to that of a minivan
- The eye-point has been set at 1,387 mm, similar in height to a minivan.
- An extra passenger-side mirror (located below the side mirror) enhances driver visibility on the left-hand side of the vehicle. Mirrors have also been placed in the upper interior sections of the rear doors, improving visibility behind the vehicle.

A spacious, exceptionally convenient interior

- The cabin height of the Pixis Mega is a class-leading 1,455 mm. In addition, a door height of 1,700 mm ensures easy access by young children and the elderly. Both sides of the vehicle feature one-touch electric sliding doors, further increasing ease of use.
- The vehicle features a dedicated storage space beneath the trunk floor, with a capacity of approximately 90 liters (approximately 16 liters on 4WD models). This extends the total trunk height to a maximum of 1,485 mm, meaning that large objects can be loaded upright without folding down the rear seats.
- A large storage tray is located in front of the passenger seat. Additionally, a large, convenient storage pocket has been positioned at the rear of the center console.

Stable handling

- Despite the vehicle's height, handling stability has been enhanced through the use of stiffer suspension as a result of larger shock absorbers coupled with the use of stabilizers.
- Optimized sheet thickness for the roof panel and plastic construction for the back door and front fender have lightened the vehicle and lowered its center of gravity.
- Aerodynamic fins, which improve stability at high speeds, are included as standard on door mirrors and rear combination lamps.

Outstanding environmental performance
- eco-IDLE2, an idling-stop system, is standard on all models.

Front-wheel drive models without intercooled turbos can achieve 25.4 km/L under the Japanese Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism's JC08 test cycle. 4WD models equipped with intercooled turbos exceed the Japanese government's 2015 fuel economy standards by at least 20 percent, while all other models meet the Japanese government's 2020 fuel economy standards (as specified in the Act on the Rational Use of Energy). Additionally, emissions are at least 75 percent lower than the 2005 standards set under the Japanese government's Approval System for Low-emission Vehicles. As a result, all grades are eligible for the Japanese government's subsidies and tax incentives for eco-cars.

Assembly Plant:Oita (Nakatsu) Plant, Daihatsu Motor Kyushu Co., Ltd.

(1) According to JIS JM50 regulations which prescribe the average height of Japanese males at 170 cm

(2) Registered trademark of Daihatsu Motor Co., Ltd.

Link to the "Pixis Mega" webpage (Japanese only): http://toyota.jp/pixismega/

About Toyota

Supported by people around the world, Toyota Motor Corporation (TSE: 7203; NYSE: TM), has endeavored since its establishment in 1937 to serve society by creating better products. As of the end of December 2013, Toyota conducts its business worldwide with 52 overseas manufacturing companies in 27 countries and regions. Toyota's vehicles are sold in more than 170 countries and regions. For more information, please visit www.toyota-global.com.

Contact:
Toyota Motor Corporation
Public Affairs Division
Global Communications Department
Tel: +81-3-3817-9926

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Mitsubishi Corporation Supports Small Farmers in Colombia

July 2, 2015, 1:07 am

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TOKYO, Jul 2, 2015 - (JCN Newswire) - Mitsubishi Corporation (MC) is pleased to announce that small farmers in the Department of Norte de Santander in Colombia receiving support under its international contributions program, and in collaboration with the Federacion Nacional de Cafeteros de Colombia (FNC), will export their first batch of coffee beans for sale in the Japanese market later this year.

The Colombian government has launched a series of national campaigns to reduce the extent to which poor farming communities resort to the cultivation of illegal crops. Notable among those campaigns is its Forest Ranger Families Program. In July 2008, MC signed a memorandum of understanding with the Colombian Government and FNC to support this program, which made a commitment to providing skills development training related to infrastructure and environmental protection to small coffee farmers in Norte de Santander over a 10-year period. Support centered mainly on boosting capacity for pulping and drying coffee berries cultivated locally.

MC has now entered into an agreement to purchase the coffee processed by 288 Norte de Santander farmers supported under the program for sale in the Japanese market. This is the first time that coffee produced by small-scale farmers in a specific location is being imported into Japan, which has traditionally focused on the import of blended coffee or imported from other coffee-producing regions. Securing the export of their product to a major coffee-consuming market such as Japan is expected to go a long way in helping to reduce levels of poverty among small coffee farmers in the region while at the same time contribute to eradicating the cultivation of illegal crops in Colombia. The aroma-rich coffee, typical of highly-acclaimed Colombian coffee beans, is valued above the USD 3.40 per kilogram average, which attests to the quality of the product. Consumers in Japan can expect to start enjoying this high-quality coffee from around October or November of this year.

MC intends to continue working with the Colombian government, FNC and other relevant bodies to support small coffee farmers in an effort to assist with the country's efforts to alleviate poverty and reduce dependence on illegal crops, thereby contributing to Colombia's overall development.

Project Outline

Project Name: Forest Ranger Families Program
(Spanish Name: Programa Familias Guardabosques)

Participating Bodies: Office of the President of Colombia, FNC, local governments, public financial institutions, Mitsubishi Corporation

Government Contributions: USD 12,843,914 (including USD 1,778,359 for coffee-related programs)

MC's Contribution: USD 1,000,000 (over 10 years from 2009 to 2018)

Program Contents: Training and skills development for local farmers through the dispatch of agricultural specialists and investments in environmentally-friendly coffee washing and drying equipment.

Area if Implementation: Nine Departments, namely: Narino, Huila, Cauca, Tolima, Magdalena, La Guajira, Norte de Santander, Boyaca and Santander).

Number of Farmers: 2,880 (covering a farming area of 2,745 hectares).

Current Status: Program already implemented in Narino, Huila, Cauca, Tolima, Magdalena and La Guajira between 2009 and 2014.

Impact of Support Provided

Support to small-scale coffee farmers under this program sought mainly to boost their capacity for pulping and drying coffee berries. In particular, the renewal of processing equipment led to improvements in hygiene and reduced the time to completion. How the skin and pulp are removed helps to determine the flavor and aroma of the final product, so this also contributed to improving the quality of the locally produced coffee. The new equipment also reduced the quantities of water used for washing, thereby also having a positive impact on the surrounding environment.

Colombian Coffee Growers Federation (FNC)

The Colombian Coffee Growers Federation (FNC) is a non-profit organization that promotes the production and exportation of Colombian coffee. FNC represents some 563,000 coffee growers nationwide.

About Mitsubishi Corporation

Mitsubishi Corporation (MC; TSE: 8058) is a global integrated business enterprise that develops and operates businesses across virtually every industry including industrial finance, energy, metals, machinery, chemicals, foods, and environmental business. MC's current activities are expanding far beyond its traditional trading operations as its diverse business ranges from natural resources development to investment in retail business, infrastructure, financial products and manufacturing of industrial goods. With over 200 bases of operations in approximately 80 countries worldwide and a network of over 500 group companies, MC employs a multinational workforce of nearly 60,000 people. For more information, please visit www.mitsubishicorp.com.

Contact:
Mitsubishi Corporation
Telephone:+81 3 3210 2171 
Facsimile:+81 3 5252 7705

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Summary of CEO Speech on July 6, 2015

July 6, 2015, 9:25 pm

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TOKYO, Jul 7, 2015 - (JCN Newswire) - The new President & CEO of Honda Motor Co., Takahiro Hachigo, unveiled his future vision for the company. He highlighted two themes that the new "Team Honda" will pursue:

I want to create a new Honda under two themes.

Two themes to be pursued for the new Honda

1. Advancement of the six-region global operation structure
2. Continuous development of challenging products unique to Honda and delivering them to our customers around the world

Let me talk about my vision for the future of Honda which will be established as we pursue these themes. The key word is "Team Honda."

Future of Honda - My thoughts based on personal experiences "at the spot"

- Honda's strength is that team/project members share one goal and take on challenges and attain high targets.
- Honda's challenges have always been generated "at the spot."

Let me share some of my experiences that proved these points to me.

- 1999 - As an Assistant Large Project Leader (development leader), I was involved in the development of the U.S. Odyssey, the first full-size minivan Honda introduced in North America, together with the startup of a new plant in Canada. It was an important project that would forge the future of Honda business in North America. The team consisted of members who came from different areas of expertise and different countries working as one. This project established the foundation for Honda's future light truck production.

- 2011 - Shortly after the Great East Japan Earthquake, I took office as the General Manager of the Suzuka Factory. We took on challenges to integrate development, production and purchasing for mini-vehicles. This project resulted in the establishment of SKI (Suzuka K Innovation), a division that promotes Honda's mini-vehicle business, which achieved the success of our N Series, with cumulative sales exceeding 1 million units.

- 2012 - I served as the Vice President of Honda Motor Europe Ltd. in the U.K. in the midst of an economic slump in Europe. Development, production and purchasing divisions were put together on the same floor at the production plant. Being developed after a series of discussions on that floor, the all-new Civic Type R became a model with a distinct presence even in Europe, the land of sports cars. An all-new Civic Type R is scheduled to go on sale in Japan in the fall of this year.

- 2013 - I served as the Representative of Development, Purchasing and Production at Honda Motor (China) Investment Co., Ltd. in China. A major change in how Honda does business with its joint venture partners in China was undertaken successfully. Now, the two joint venture companies (Guangqi Honda and Dongfeng Honda) make their own cars while sharing common platforms.

- Through my experiences "at the spot," I learned how important it is for each and every associate to share a goal and work as one team.

- Honda demonstrates its strength when a team is formed that combines the personal qualities of each member.

- The important thing for such a team is opportunities where members can voice their own opinions and have in-depth discussions.

- My role is to build a bottom-up environment where teams "at the spot" can take action based on their own initiatives.

- The goal of Team Honda is to have a strong bond with our customers through challenging products created by such teams "at the spot."

Now, let me talk about how we are going to pursue the two themes under this direction.

1. Advancement of the six-region global operations structure

Existing six-region global operations structure

- Honda employs a unique matrix management structure. Under this structure, each region has built up their own production capacity and established sales, development and purchasing functions, which has made it possible for each region to develop exclusive models for their region.

As the next step, we will utilize regional production capacity for our global operations as a whole.

- Operational functions of the global headquarters will be enhanced to strongly promote mutually complementary inter-regional relationships. Production allocation will be optimized while leveraging Honda's flexible production system.

Examples of a mutually complementary relationship in the area of automobile production include the supply of some North American Fit and European Jazz models that will come from Japan, the next generation of Civic 5-door which will be supplied from Europe to other regions and the next generation of CR-V which will be supplied from Canada to Europe.

In Nigeria, Honda will begin local production of the Honda Accord this month (with planned annual production capacity of 1,000 units). This is first time for Honda to assemble automobiles in Africa.

2. Continuous development of challenging products unique to Honda and delivering them to our customers around the world.

In order to realize products that provide our customers with inspiring innovations and joys using unprecedented technologies, it is important for the team to work as one and think deeply.

- S660 was created by a team that was newly-formed after a young associate proposed the ideal sports car he wanted to build.
- This year, after pursuing a dream for nearly 30 years to take personal mobility to the skies through aircraft research, Honda will begin customer delivery of the HF120 jet engine and the HondaJet light business jet aircraft.

We will continue to be firmly committed to the creation of "challenging products" unique to Honda.

- In the area of automobile products, the next-generation Civic will be equipped with a new platform and downsized turbo engine.
- Core global Honda models CR-V and Accord will undergo full model changes in the future to make them more attractive vehicles that feature more new technologies, higher competitiveness and innovative designs.
- We will strive to begin sales in Japan of the next-generation successor to FCX Clarity before the end of the current fiscal year (ending March 31, 2016). As the next-generation of mobility products, Honda will evolve products that use electricity as a core technology.
- In the area of motorcycles, the CRF1000L, a dual-purpose model which is scheduled to be introduced to European markets at the end of 2015 and then in Japan and North America, will enable customers to experience a product unique only to Honda.
- In the area of power products, Honda has been continuing its research and development of a Walking Assist Device which supports walking for people with weakened leg strength. Honda is striving to commercialize this product in Japan before the end of this year.

Closing

- In order to continue using unprecedented technologies to deliver inspiring innovations and joys to our customers, Honda will be fully committed to product development in all business areas - motorcycles, automobiles, and power products.
- There may be some occasions where teams need to take more time "at the spot" to make the best product. I will support associates at the spot in our manufacturing operations by ensuring they get the time they need.
- Our priority is to pursue the art of manufacturing that leads to the joy of our customers
- I believe in Honda's people, technological strengths and potential. My job is to establish a system that connects the strengths we derive from the challenging spirit of each and every one of the 200,000 Honda associates around the world to the dreams of our customers.
- What drives me forward with my fellow Honda associates is The Power of Dreams.
- Driven by The Power of Dreams, Team Honda will keep moving forward with the goal to share joys with customers all around the world.

About Honda

Honda Motor Co., Ltd. (TSE:7267/NYSE:HMC/LSE:HNDA.L) is one of the leading manufacturers of automobiles and power products and the largest manufacture of motorcycles in the world. Honda has always sought to provide genuine satisfaction to people worldwide. The result is more than 120 manufacturing facilities in 30 countries worldwide, producing a wide range of products, including motorcycles, ATVs, generators, marine engines, lawn and garden equipment and automobiles that bring the company into contact with over 19 million customers annually. For more information, please visit http://world.honda.com.

Contact:
Media Inquiries
corporate_pr@hm.honda.co.jp
+81-3-5412-1512

↧

GE and NTT DOCOMO Sign MoU Toward Business Alliance to Provide Industrial Equipment for IoT Solutions

July 8, 2015, 2:08 am

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TOKYO, Jul 8, 2015 - (JCN Newswire) - GE Energy Japan Co., Ltd. (GE) and NTT DOCOMO, INC. (DOCOMO) have signed a memorandum of understanding today toward a business alliance to provide a new Internet of Things (IoT) solution. The partnership will combine GE Digital Energy's MDS Orbit Platform, a wireless router for industrial equipment, and DOCOMO's communication module.

GE's MDS Orbit Platform with DOCOMO's embedded communication module will enable private companies with infrastructure facilities, as well as customers of local governments, to monitor real-time operational data such as temperature and vibration on infrastructure equipment. The solution will provide data for remote areas on roads and bridges, plants, electricity, gas, and water.

By combining the operation data acquired by the Orbit platform with DOCOMO's application on the "Toami" IoT cloud platform, users will be able to manage the data on their smartphones and tablets. This feature can serve as a predictive diagnostic tool to prevent failures and assist in preserving aging facilities. With the cloud platform, customers will be able to receive added value instantly without having to make any additional capital investments.

GE's Orbit platform employs robust housing for industrial equipment data communication, and includes advanced security technology and Class I Division 2 authenticationnotice(1). The platform is strongly resistant to environmental barriers, including elements such as location and terrain, to ensure communications are secure.

GE selected DOCOMO communication module embedded for Orbit platform based on the variety of industrial machine-to-machine communication experiences and result of signal quality qualification.

By cooperating further with GE, a top industrial equipment manufacturer and a world leader in the IoT field, DOCOMO will promote its +d (pronounced "plus d") initiative to create new value by collaborating with various outside partners.

By integrating the technologies of GE and DOCOMO and continually expanding to a wider range of fields, both companies will work together to provide their customers with IoT solutions that offer new kinds of value.

"Toami" is an IoT cloud platform offered by NIPPON SYSTEMWARE CO., LTD.
http://www.nsw.co.jp

(1) The danger zone is defined by IEC500 International Standards. Class I Division 2 refers to a location where explosive hazardous materials are treated but normally kept within a closed space. The closed space is managed and processed to prevent leakage of hazardous materials excluding circumstances of abnormal equipment, destruction of containers, and unforeseen accidents.

About NTT DOCOMO

NTT DOCOMO provides innovative, convenient and secure mobile services that enable smarter living for each customer. The company serves over 65 million mobile customers in Japan via advanced wireless networks, including a nationwide 3G network and one of the world's first commercial LTE networks. Leveraging its unique capabilities as a mobile operator, DOCOMO is a leading developer of cutting-edge technologies for NFC mobile payments, mobile GPS, mobile TV, intuitive mobile assistance, environmental monitoring, smart grids and much more. Overseas, the company provides technical and operational expertise to eight mobile operators and other partner companies. NTT DOCOMO is listed on the Tokyo (9437) and New York (DCM) stock exchanges. Please visit https://www.nttdocomo.co.jp/english/ for more information.

Contact:
NTT DOCOMO
International PR
Public Relations Department
Tel: +81-3-5156-1366    
Fax: +81-3-5501-3408
URL: www.nttdocomo.com
Contact: https://nes.nttdocomo.co.jp/PINQ01/showinquiry.do

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