~ Shinkansen ~
Japan is the birthplace of the high-speed
train made for regular use. The Shinkansen, also known as the 'Bullet Train',
carries over 391,000 daily and has a maximum operating speed of 270 kilometers
per hour, or roughly 170mph. The unusual cusp-nose design of the train head is
supposed to minimize noise. Also, recent changes in fueling practices have
resulted in a more efficient train; energy consumption has been reduced by 32%. Some say that the Shinkansen is considered a
symbol of Japan, and Japan can certainly be proud of such a display of
engineering. Since its opening, there have been zero accidents due to collision
or derailment and its average delay is approximately 10 seconds.
~ Robot Kingdom ~
The Tsukumo Robot Kingdom in Akihabara is a
specialized store in Japan that sells robots as well as parts to make robots.
Human-like automatons have been a prevalent feature of Japanese society as they
are often featured in modern literature or popular media as helpful humanoid
heroes, a stark contrast to the Western perception of apocalyptic self-aware
machines bent on destroying humanity.
Japanese technology companies are currently working on perfecting
hyper-real robots that could possibly replace receptionists and similar jobs. A
notable example is the robots of Ishiguro Hiroshi. Ishiguro's humanoid robots
were unveiled at Tokyo's National Museum of Emerging Science and Innovation in
June 2014 that can participate in conversation and even make facial
expressions. As Japanese engineers work to improve these humanoids, many wonder
to what extent the robots will be used in the near future.
~ Vending Machines ~
Similar to robots, the Japanese have taken
vending machines to the next level. Vending machines in Japan have everything
from drinks to toys to umbrellas to bananas. However, one mechanical dispensing
device stands out from the rest: the "Next Generation" vending
machine. It scans the customer to determine age and gender and takes into account
the temperature and time before suggesting several drink or other products on
its touch screen display.
Overall
On the whole, Japan is pretty advanced in the
world of technology. With high-speed trains, humanoid robots, and vending
machines carrying almost any product, Japan is clearly a leading developer in
the area of technology and efficiency. A
main factor that has contributed to Japan’s ability to advance technologically
is the continual damage from natural disasters or effects of WWII. Natural
disasters such as typhoons, fires, and earthquakes as well as the atomic
bombing and firebombing have destroyed many Japanese buildings, leading the Japanese to
seek new improved methods of building and infrastructure. Altogether, the
resilience of the Japanese people has led to a trend of innovation that has
greatly improved the standard of living and efficiency of society both in Japan
and around the world.
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