Poimo

Objective

In order to achieve the circular economy that Mercari is aiming for, mobility-related technologies will be essential. We’ve seen a variety of new services in recent years launching under the concept of MaaS (Mobility as a Service), fostering greater interest and attention on last-mile mobility. This has led R4D to work on a new type of electric mobility device that can be built in different shapes and sizes at a low cost to move both people and objects. Poimo’s inflatable body makes it lighter than conventional mobility devices that use metal and resin. The design is also favorable from an environmental and safety perspective, since it requires less energy to move and causes less damage in the case of collision. R4D is working on proof-of-concept experiments to make Poimo publicly available as a last-mile transportation method not only for Mercari users or items purchased on Mercari, but for people and products outside of Mercari as well. This will put Mercari Group one step closer to achieving our goal of realizing a circular economy and reducing environmental impact.

Overview

Poimo is a new type of electric mobility solution that uses an inflatable design. It started as a joint research project between Mercari R4D and Kawahara Laboratory of the University of Tokyo’s School of Engineering. Currently, R4D is working on research while also refining and improving the device for a public release. The inflatable design is what makes Poimo so versatile—it is portable, but once filled with air, it is large enough to carry most people and objects. Users can also adjust the amount of air inside to whatever is most comfortable for them. It’s a new style of mobility that can be folded up, carried around, and then inflated whenever you need it. Poimo’s design is also perfect for customization, since we can cut out any fabric and mold it into any shape. By taking advantage of this ability for customization, we aim to make mobility more inclusive through Poimo. In addition to helping people get around in their everyday lives or on trips, our vision is for it to be used in ways that meet diverse lifestyle needs, like as a lightweight wheelchair or to transport luggage. R4D is also conducting research with the Yasuaki Kakehi Laboratory of the University of Tokyo to create a soft sensor-based controls interface that would be easy and simple for anyone to use. For inquiries regarding this project, please contact r4d-contact@mercari.com.