Visit to Daikin Technology and Innovation Center

On April 8, the S&T Diplomatic Circle Kansai visited the Technology and Innovation Center (TIC) of Daikin Industries in Settsu City, Osaka. Opened in November 2015, the TIC serves as the global core for the Daikin Group's research and technology development, concentrating around 700 engineers in a purpose-built six-floor facility of approximately 48,000 square meters.

The center is designed around the concept of collaborative innovation, bringing together researchers from within Daikin alongside external partners including universities, companies, and startups. Daikin maintains active research alliances with Kyoto University, Osaka University, and the Nara Institute of Science and Technology, covering fields ranging from materials science and AI to CO2 recovery and energy-efficient air conditioning systems. The TIC building itself serves as a living demonstration of Daikin's environmental ambitions, having achieved LEED Platinum and CASBEE highest S rank certifications through the application of the company's own advanced energy-saving technologies.

The delegation met with Mr. Tooru Inazuka, Senior Associate Officer and TIC Executive Engineer, who introduced the center's current R&D activities and Daikin's broader technology strategy. The visit offered a close look at how one of the world's leading air conditioning manufacturers is working to shape solutions for energy efficiency, indoor air quality, and environmental sustainability on a global scale.

Our special thanks go to Consul General Filippo Manara, Ugo Falciola, and Yoko Nakatani (Italy), as well as Mr. Richard Schneider (Czech Republic), CzechTrade Director, for coordinating this visit.