HACARUS

HACARUS Inc., established in Kyoto, Japan, in 2014, specializes in developing lightweight and explainable artificial intelligence solutions. The company was founded by Kenshin Fujiwara, a serial tech entrepreneur with a background in computer science and prior experience at Sony Computer Entertainment working on PlayStation development. The current CEO is Takashi Someda. HACARUS has secured total funding of $12.4 million over five rounds, including a Series B round in January 2024 with investment from Mitsubishi Electric. Other notable investors include Daikin Industries, Osaka Gas, and Miyako Capital.

The company's core technology is built on Sparse Modeling, an AI method that differs from deep learning by its ability to derive insights from small data sets, making it more resource and energy-efficient. This approach allows the AI's decision-making process to be more transparent and understandable to humans. HACARUS provides a one-stop service for AI implementation, covering everything from data analysis and model development to application integration, and has assisted over 100 companies.

HACARUS serves clients primarily in the manufacturing, construction, infrastructure, and medical industries. Its business model revolves around providing both standalone AI software and comprehensive solutions that bundle software with hardware. Key products include the "HACARUS Check" series, an AI visual inspection solution designed to detect defects in precision manufacturing, particularly for metal components in the automotive industry. This solution can be integrated with factory automation devices, such as FANUC cobots. Another offering is "HACARUS KY," an application for the construction industry that supports hazard prediction activities to improve worksite safety. The company also engages in joint research and development with partners like Kobe University and The University of Tokyo in the medical field, focusing on areas such as radiology and drug discovery.

Keywords: explainable AI, sparse modeling, small data AI, visual inspection, manufacturing AI, construction safety, medical AI, factory automation, AI consulting, Kenshin Fujiwara, Takashi Someda, Kyoto startup, machine learning, computer vision, hazard prediction, quality control, defect detection, edge AI, materials informatics, drug discovery