The Panasonic Electrical Works Department, now integrated into Panasonic Life Solutions, stands as a pivotal element in Panasonic’s quest to revolutionize our living standards. This division excels in a wide array of electrical and construction materials, automation controls, and energy management solutions, playing a crucial role in the evolution of contemporary living spaces. With a keen emphasis on sustainability, efficiency, and smart technology integration, the Panasonic Electrical Works Department has significantly contributed to creating safer, more comfortable, and environmentally friendly living and working environments. Their work, extending across residential, commercial, and industrial sectors, underscores Panasonic’s dedication to improving life quality through technological innovation and environmental stewardship.
As an invitee on a FAM Trip to Tokyo, Japan, I had the privilege of witnessing Panasonic’s contributions to enhancing the lives of people throughout Japan firsthand. I would like to highlight some of the premium projects undertaken by the Panasonic Electrical Works Department, starting with the iconic Tokyo Sky Tree.
Tokyo Skytree
Panasonic’s involvement in the Tokyo Skytree, which debuted in spring 2012, showcases the company’s dedication to pioneering eco-friendly technology and enhancing significant landmarks. As the world’s tallest broadcasting tower at 634 meters, the Tokyo Skytree is not only an architectural marvel but also a modern symbol of Tokyo. Panasonic’s key role in lighting this iconic structure with an all-LED system highlights a seamless integration of traditional Japanese aesthetics and advanced technology.
Opting for LED lighting for the Tokyo Skytree was motivated by environmental concerns and the ambition to create a display mirroring the essence and beauty of Edo (ancient Tokyo). Despite the nascent stage of LED technology for broad applications at that time, facing challenges in brightness, heat management, and illuminating extensive distances of over 140 meters, Panasonic successfully navigated these hurdles.
Panasonic’s breakthrough with high-powered LEDs and colour-accurate LEDs was instrumental in achieving the distinct lighting themes “Iki” and “Miyabi” on alternating nights. “Iki” captures the sophisticated spirit of Edo with a pale blue hue reminiscent of the Sumida River, whereas “Miyabi” presents an aura of elegance in purple, reflecting Edo’s rich heritage.
To bring these visionary lighting concepts to life, Panasonic utilized its exclusive high-precision colour reproduction technology, introduced a novel LED package, and addressed the critical issue of heat dissipation. The careful design of the LED fixtures, considering environmental factors at the Skytree’s location, ensured a 40,000-hour lifespan for the LEDs, mitigating overheating concerns and significantly reducing energy usage – with the “Iki” pattern consuming 43% less energy than traditional lighting methods.
Furthermore, Panasonic’s contribution to the Tokyo Skytree transcended lighting solutions. The company implemented sophisticated and reliable control technology for the LEDs, enabling dynamic and impressive lighting effects that have become a signature of Tokyo’s night-time skyline. This LED system not only accentuates the Skytree’s structural elegance but also exemplifies Panasonic’s expertise in delivering energy-efficient, durable lighting technologies that help minimize CO2 emissions and environmental impact.
In essence, Panasonic’s work with the Tokyo Skytree transcends mere lighting; it embodies a harmonious blend of tradition and innovation, significantly enriching Tokyo’s skyline while underscoring the importance of sustainability and efficiency. Panasonic’s advancements in LED lighting pave the way for future endeavours aiming to merge aesthetic appeal with ecological awareness.
worXlab
Panasonic’s worXlab, situated in the Panasonic Tokyo Shiodome Building, epitomizes the future of workplace design, especially in the era of the “new normal.” launched in December 2020, worXlab was intentionally crafted to prioritize human-centric spaces that contribute to the sustainable development of the company by promoting a wellness environment where employees can work with vitality and health.
In March 2021, the office earned the WELL Health-Safety Rating, affirming Panasonic’s commitment to combating infectious diseases such as COVID-19 and safeguarding the health and safety of its users. This operational office exemplifies solutions centered around four critical themes—safety, interaction, concentration, and recovery – that are fundamental to an effective central office, including strategies to prevent overcrowding, thereby reflecting Panasonic’s commitment to accommodating diverse working styles.
WorXlab’s innovation lies in its integration of technology to facilitate new working methodologies, supported by over 200 sensor devices throughout the office. These sensors collect data on human activity and environmental conditions, such as temperature and humidity, to personalize the workspace according to individual preferences. This approach emphasizes a human-centered workspace, aligning with the design philosophy of “Well-Being for the Workplace,” which seeks to balance comfort and productivity. By focusing on the well-being of individuals rather than solely on spatial efficiency, worXlab embodies Panasonic’s vision of a workplace that endorses well-being, adaptable to various work modalities.
National Stadium
The Tokyo National Stadium, inaugurated for the Tokyo 2020 Olympics, featured Panasonic’s cutting-edge technology, significantly enhancing the spectator experience. Panasonic’s contributions were pivotal, particularly in lighting and visual technology, ensuring an immersive environment for attendees and viewers worldwide.
Key to the stadium’s technological outfitting were Panasonic’s advanced lighting systems and approximately 600 digital signage systems, marking a record deployment for the company. The lighting technology was not just functional but also integral to the entertainment, offering dynamic effects and optimized colour reproducibility for television broadcasts, thereby enriching the global viewing experience.
A highlight was the Opening Ceremony’s light show and projection mapping, powered by Panasonic’s RQ50K projectors. These projectors, with their 4K resolution and superior brightness, created deep, radiant visuals that transformed the Olympic Stadium, presenting a visual spectacle that encapsulated the innovative spirit of Japan.
Tsu Factory
The Panasonic Tsu Factory in Tsu City, Mie Prefecture, Japan, exemplifies Panasonic’s commitment to innovation and quality in wiring device manufacturing. More than just a production facility, it serves as a custodian of Panasonic’s rich history in electrical wiring devices, marrying tradition with modernity over its extensive 100,000 square meter campus, and supporting over 1,800 employees.
Originating with the “Attachment Plug” in 1918, enabling devices to connect to light bulb sockets in homes lacking wall outlets, the factory marked the beginning of Panasonic’s journey in electrical innovation. This was soon followed by the “2 Lighting Cluster” in 1920, further cementing Panasonic’s role in home electrification. Despite evolving demands and the advent of “The Three Sacred Treasures” era post-World War II, the Tsu Factory has remained relevant, producing about 100,000 units of its legacy products annually.
Now a global leader, the Tsu Factory exports to over 100 countries, mainly in Asia, embodying Panasonic’s ethos of “local production, local consumption, and total optimization.” This philosophy ensures products are designed with regional preferences in mind, maintaining a commitment to integrated production from mould making to assembly in-house, which guarantees quality.
Automation within the factory underscores a commitment to precision and the “Made in Japan” quality standard, while also fostering talent development. The facility not only enhances Panasonic’s production technologies but also contributes globally, including in India, through an exchange of expertise. This strategy ensures Panasonic’s enduring legacy in electrical wiring devices, meeting diverse global market needs.
Fujisawa Sustainable Smart Town
The Fujisawa Sustainable Smart Town (Fujisawa SST), a pioneering venture by Panasonic in Fujisawa City, Kanagawa Prefecture, illustrates a forward-thinking approach to sustainable urban living. Located approximately 50 kilometres south of Tokyo, the project transforms the site of an old Panasonic factory into a model of eco-friendly, secure, and comfortable living, championing energy efficiency and sustainability.
At the heart of Fujisawa SST, each home is outfitted with solar panels, embracing extensive use of natural energy sources. The community benefits from innovative applications that track and advise on energy consumption, alongside an electrical storage facility providing up to three days of emergency power.
Security is paramount, with Fujisawa SST operating as a “Virtual Gated Town.” Security cameras at the town’s entrances enhance resident safety, complementing Panasonic’s commitment to environmental responsibility through shared electric vehicles and bicycles, fostering reduced CO2 emissions and encouraging active lifestyles.
The project emphasizes community well-being, with “Wellness Square” at its centre offering healthcare, daycare, and educational services. Additionally, homes feature health monitoring devices, integrating technology to improve living standards.
Fujisawa SST represents a collective endeavour, with Panasonic joining forces with entities like Mitsui & Co., Mitsui Fudosan Co., and Tokyo Gas, to name a few. This collaboration aims for a 70% cut in CO2 emissions through initiatives in infrastructure, energy, mobility, and lifestyle.
As it evolves, Fujisawa SST focuses on community growth, with the Fujisawa SST SQUARE serving as a vibrant hub for resident and visitor engagement, underscoring the town’s commitment to fostering a sustainable, connected community.
Yokohama Stadium
Panasonic has significantly enhanced the International Stadium Yokohama, delivering cutting-edge lighting solutions that elevate both the spectator experience and the stadium’s functionality. Situated in Yokohama City’s Kohoku Ward, this multi-sport venue, with a seating capacity of up to 72,000, ranks among Japan’s largest, ensuring a comfortable viewing experience over prolonged periods.
A standout feature is the “BALLPARK FANTASIA” event, powered by Panasonic’s cloud-based control technology “YOI-en,” which utilizes 160 full-colour LED Dynapainter floodlights for diverse and vibrant illumination displays. These displays can be customized for specific events or seasons, offering a warm welcome to visitors.
The YOI-en system facilitates sophisticated lighting control via computer, simplifying the creation of expansive light displays throughout the city. On regular days, YOI-en functions as standard street lighting, but on special occasions, it transforms into a medium for dynamic light shows. It can adjust colours in response to people’s attire in photo booths through camera connectivity and gesture controls, illustrating its versatility.
A demonstration of “YOI-en” was done during Diwali last year (2023) at Hiranandani Mumbai-Powai.
As a cloud service, YOI-en connects lighting systems across various locations for remote choreography and control, fostering a vibrant cityscape that comes alive at night, year-round. This service is not limited to Yokohama but is also implemented in iconic locations across Japan, including Kyoto, Hokkaido, and Tokyo, showcasing Panasonic’s commitment to innovative urban lighting solutions.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Panasonic Life Solutions embodies the vision for a better, more connected world through its innovative spirit and dedication to sustainability. By delivering comprehensive solutions across various aspects of daily living, Panasonic not only enhances the quality of life but also contributes positively to society and the environment.
Through projects like the Tokyo National Stadium, Tsu Factory, Fujisawa SST, and the lighting of Hiranandani Powai, Panasonic Life Solutions demonstrates a global commitment to creating safer, more comfortable, and energy-efficient environments for all.
