The Future of Community and Mobility Week
Talk Session: Creating a Well-Balanced Future Lifestyle with Automation
Azbil Corporation
By 2050, we might see a world where human comfort and the Earth's environment are harmoniously balanced, in ways we can't even imagine today. Through Azbil's concept of "Human-Centered Automation," we will delve into themes such as smart cities, carbon neutrality, and rural urbanization to discuss the global future. Join us in envisioning the "well-balanced" or "chodo ii" lifestyle of future generations with our esteemed guests. We invite you to participate and help shape this vision!
Recorded video available
Discussion
- Smart cities
- Digital garden cities
- Regional Revitalization
| Transmission of simultaneous interpretation | Provided |
|---|---|
| Language of interpretation | Japanese and English |
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Agenda2025
Participation Programme
- Time and
Date of
the event -
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2025.05.16[Fri]
14:30 ～ 16:00
(Venue Open 14:00)
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- Venue
- Theme Weeks Studio
Programme details
*Subtitles: Choose “Subtitles/CC” in the “Settings” (gear icon) at the bottom right of the YouTube video.
*Subtitles may not show with multiple languages or overlapping audio.
The Japanese concept of "chodo ii" (ちょうどいい) is often translated as "just right" or "well-balanced", but its essence is more nuanced than the phrase suggests. At its core, "chodo ii" embodies a sense of perfect balance and harmony, where everything is neither too much nor too little, but exactly as it should be.
This concept of "just right" or "chodo ii" is something we often don't notice. For example, when the room temperature and humidity are satisfactory, we remain comfortable without even realizing it.
At Azbil, we achieve this comfortable "chodo ii" feeling through automation technology that goes unnoticed.
By 2050, we hope to welcome an exciting future where everyone can live true to themselves. To achieve this, we need to address current issues, while looking ahead into the slightly far future. We believe "Human-Centered Automation" technology can become a solution to solve these issues, and to move forward into the future.
In our talk session, we will discuss "the well-balanced lifestyle of the future" with experts and distinguished guests. We will explore the optimal balance between individuals and the environment from an international perspective. Join us and let's envision a "chodo ii" future for people and the earth.
Reports
【Reflection】
This program offered a valuable opportunity to explore the concept of a “well-balanced lifestyle” for the future, focusing on sustainability and the balance between technology and society. It also resonated deeply with the core vision of the Expo 2025—“Designing Future Society for Our Lives”—by bringing together diverse perspectives.
The session began with a thought-provoking definition and proposal of “well-balanced” living by Mr. Fritz Frenkler (f/p design CEO, Emeritus of Excellence at Technical University of Munich (TUM)). Mr. Akifumi Yogo (Ph D, Prof., Vice Director, Institute of Laser Engineering, The University of Osaka) followed with insights into energy challenges and the forefront of laser fusion technology. Clarence Chua (Head of Region Japan and Korea & SVP Business Environment, Singapore Economic Development Board (EDB)) then shared real-world policy examples centered on human-focused development. These three experts, each from distinct fields, offered multifaceted insights into what a well-balanced future lifestyle could look like.
Moderated by Mr. Takushi Izawa (CEO of QuizKnock Inc., Quiz Player), with two azbil employees serving as MCs, the discussion covered a wide range of themes—from national policy and partnerships to respect for others, including nature, and the balance of sustainable energy. A particularly lively debate emerged around the role of advanced technologies. The session concluded with a shared understanding: that cutting-edge technologies must not be used merely for human convenience, and that a long-term perspective is essential. This conclusion was met with prolonged applause from the studio audience. Feedback from attendees showed a strong sense of satisfaction and engagement throughout the session.
At azbil, we believe in “human-centered automation”—a philosophy that puts people first while contributing to a safer, more comfortable, and environmentally conscious world. As a company built on technology, we’re reminded of the importance of using innovation in ways that truly benefit society. This Theme Week was a meaningful opportunity to reflect on that responsibility and reaffirm our commitment to creating well-balanced solutions for individuals, communities, and the planet.
【Post EXPO Initiatives】
We view the outcomes of our presentation as a meaningful first step toward realizing a “well-balanced lifestyle” for the future. Our participation in Expo 2025 is ongoing, and we plan to continue engaging throughout the Expo period. As a company, we are now considering future initiatives that build on this momentum.
One of the most encouraging developments was the surge in activity among our younger employees. The team behind the presentation was composed of members from various departments and generations, and their success story has been widely shared within the company. This has become a model for cross-functional collaboration and a foundation for generating new value and innovation.
The presentation also inspired admiration among new employees, who saw their peers as role models. In turn, the young presenters began to embrace their roles as mentors, fostering a sense of responsibility and leadership. This positive cycle has significantly boosted engagement and teamwork across the organization.
Moreover, the Theme Week facilitated meaningful exchanges with other companies. Through mutual attendance and communication, we have begun building relationships that transcend corporate boundaries. These interactions have not only provided learning opportunities but also laid the groundwork for sustainable partnerships moving forward.
This presentation has brought significant value both inside and outside the company—strengthening networks, energizing teams, and deepening our sense of purpose. As we continue working toward a future that’s truly well-balanced—not just convenient—we remain committed to long-term thinking, meaningful partnerships, and growing together with society.
Cast
Moderator
Takushi Izawa
CEO of QuizKnock Inc. , Quiz Player
Izawa graduated from Kaisei Junior & Senior High School and earned a Bachelor’s degree in Economics from the University of Tokyo.
He began competing as a member of the Kaisei Gakuen Quiz Research Club in junior high school, and during senior high, achieved an unprecedented back-to-back individual championship at the All Japan High School Quiz Championship.
He is a former student of Hayashi-Sensei and University of Tokyo graduate, also known as the “knowledge monster.”
In 2016, he launched the web media platform QuizKnock with the concept of “learning that begins with fun,” serving as Editor-in-Chief while personally planning and appearing on its YouTube channel.
In 2019, he founded QuizKnock Inc. and became its CEO.
He is currently affiliated with Watanabe Entertainment.
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Speakers
Fritz Frenkler
f/p design CEO, Emeritus of Excellence at Technical University of Munich (TUM)
1983年 Graduated from the University of Fine Arts Braunschweig, Germany
1984年 Joind frogdesign, Germany/ United States of America
1986年 Founded frogdesign Asia in Tokyo, Japan
1992年 Appointed CEO of Wiege Wilkhahn Entwicklungsgesellschaft, Germany
1999年 Became chairman of the jury for the iF Product Design Award, Germany
1999年 Served as CEO of Deutsche Bahn AG
2000年 Founded f/p Design gmbh, Germany
2005年 Appointed honoary professor at the University of Fine Arts Braunschweig, Germany
2006年 Appointed Chair of Industrial Design at the Technical University of Munich
2018年 Appointed board member of the iF Design Foundation, Germany
2020年 Awarded the title Emeritus of Excellence by the Technical University of Munich
2021年 Appointed section Director for Architecture at the Academy of Arts, Berlin
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Clarence Chua
Singapore Economic Development Board, Business Environment division, Head for Japan and Korea region
Clarence Chua leads the Business Environment division at the Singapore Economic Development Board (EDB) which oversees policies related to incentives and trade. He is also head for Japan and Korea region. After graduating from the University of Tokyo with a Bachelor of Economics, he worked in EDB’s International Policies and Electronics divisions. From 2008 to 2013, Clarence was based in Japan, managing EDB’s operations in Japan and Korea. Upon his return to Singapore, he was appointed as Director for EDB’s Corporate Planning division which oversees EDB’s performance as Singapore’s lead economic development agency. He oversaw the development of the Professional Services cluster from 2015-2018 and Hub Services strategy from 2018-2019, followed by the Strategic Planning division in 2019-2020. He was Director Strategic Planning Division in the Ministry of Communications and Information in 2020-2022.
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Akifumi Yogo
Ph D, Prof., Vice Director, Institute of Laser Engineering, The University of Osaka
March 1999: Undergraduate School of Engineering Science, Faculty of Engineering, Kyoto University, Bachelor
March 2001: Department of Nuclear Engineering, Graduate School of Engineering, Kyoto University, Master
March 2005: Department of Nuclear Engineering, Graduate School of Engineering, Kyoto University, Ph. D.
April 2005: Kansai Photon Science Institute, Japan Atomic Energy Agency
March 2014: Associate Professor, Institute of Laser Engineering, The University of Osaka
June 2022: Professor, Institute of Laser Engineering, The University of Osaka
April 2025: Vice Director, Institute of Laser Engineering, The University of Osaka
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The Future of Community and Mobility Week
Talk Session: Creating a Well-Balanced Future Lifestyle with Automation
By 2050, we might see a world where human comfort and the Earth's environment are harmoniously balanced, in ways we can't even imagine today. Through Azbil's concept of "Human-Centered Automation," we will delve into themes such as smart cities, carbon neutrality, and rural urbanization to discuss the global future. Join us in envisioning the "well-balanced" or "chodo ii" lifestyle of future generations with our esteemed guests. We invite you to participate and help shape this vision!
-
2025.05.16[Fri]
14:30～16:00
(Venue Open 14:00)
- Theme Weeks Studio
- * Programme times and content are subject to change. Any changes will be announced on this website and via the ticket booking system.
- * The schedule is subject to change depending on the organiser's circumstances.
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The Future of Community and Mobility Week
