Osaka, Osaka City
We offer a service called “GeXeL” that automatically digitizes (segments) images using AI simply by uploading them to the cloud, returning data on the number, size, and shape of objects. Traditional image analysis software cannot automatically digitize images, so manual digitization was required, which took a significant amount of time. By utilizing AI-based image analysis, we provide a service that automatically and quickly digitizes objects/areas within images. This enables the analysis of images, which previously required manual effort and time, to be performed fully automatically and in a short amount of time. Additionally, this technology has a wide range of applications, such as digitizing hair characteristics like luster, elasticity, and damage.
We are working to develop a service that can diagnose hair damage simply by performing a routine haircut, utilizing our strength in segmentation technology. The surface of hair is covered by a layered structure called the cuticle. When damaged, the cuticle peels off or becomes thinner. Traditionally, it was necessary to count the number of cuticle layers by examining the cross-section of hair. However, recent analyses of hair surface images have revealed a correlation between damage and cuticle condition. In this study, we will develop segmentation AI capable of recognizing the cuticle and build a diagnostic system.
| Representative |
Masataka KubonaiEarned a Ph.D. in Applied Physics from the Graduate School of Engineering at Tohoku University. Specialized in solid-state physics and conducted research on thermoelectric power generation materials. After spending one year as a postdoctoral researcher at the National Institute of Advanced Industrial Science and Technology (AIST), joined a major chemical manufacturer to acquire knowledge in chemistry and AI. Resigned in July 2023 and founded KNiT Co., Ltd. Utilizing the knowledge gained from research, manufacturing, and AI, he operates the service “GeXeL” to reduce routine work for researchers and engineers and promote informatics in manufacturing. By combining AI with human expertise, he aims to create a world where innovative products are produced in unprecedented ways. |
|---|---|
| Main Achievements | During university: Selected for DC1, published 4 original papers, received 1 oral presentation award, and 4 poster presentation awards 2023: Selected for the SIO Accelerator Program Received the Osaka City Credit Union Award at 5G×Impact 2023 Received the NICT Award at Mirai Pitch 2023 Won the Grand Prize and 5 other awards at the 19th Osaka Entrepreneur Growing Up Competition 2024: Selected for the IAG Venture Support Program Selected for the FASTER acceleration program hosted by the Small and Medium Enterprise Agency Secured 40 million yen in seed funding Won the Business Design & Action Award 2024 Received the IBM BlueHub Award at the R5 Entrepreneur Expo GeXeL, an AI image analysis tool that reduces researchers' routine work by 90%, was certified under the Osaka Top Runner Cultivation Program Received a category award at the Kansai NBC New Business Award 2024 |
| Company Name | KNiT Inc. |
|---|---|
| Representative Name | Masataka Kubonai |
| Address | Osaka Prefecture, Osaka City, Chuo Ward, Minami Honmachi 2-1-1 Honmachi Southern Building TD Floor 1st Floor |
| Official Site and Social Media |
Official Website |
| Founding Date | December 2023 |