Turning human motion into 3D data: capturing the art of skilled work

JStories ー Japanese startup Acuity Inc. is revolutionizing industries with its advanced motion capture technology, which transforms human movement into three-dimensional (3D) digital data. Initially popular in entertainment and sports — particularly for athletic form analysis, video game development, and virtual YouTuber (Vtuber) character creation — this technology is now reshaping other sectors, including manufacturing, construction, medicine, and education. By turning motion into measurable, visual data, Acuity’s system enhances efficiency and performance while preserving craftsmanship and addressing broader social issues.

In manufacturing, for example, analyzing workers' movements can detect subtle errors or inconsistencies, reducing waste and stabilizing quality. The technology also helps in fields that require expert skills, such as construction and welding, where experienced instructors are in short supply. Acuity’s system records and models the techniques of master craftsmen, making them easier to learn and pass on. This not only improves efficiency but also facilitates the transfer of skills, especially when setting up factories overseas.

Founded in 2015 by CEO and CTO Shinpei Sato, Acuity has grown steadily. Based in Tokyo, the company was a pioneer in 3D motion data analysis long before AI became mainstream. 

Using high-precision cameras, Acuity’s system captures human movement and reconstructs it in 3D, much like an MRI scan reveals the inside of the human body. The system can pinpoint areas for improvement and display them in fine detail on screen.

“Our strength lies in how accurately we can capture complex, three-dimensional motion compared to other systems,” Sato explains. “Thanks to our proprietary cameras and image-processing technology, we’ve achieved a motion recognition accuracy of over 99.7%.”

Acuity once worked on preserving traditional Japanese craftsmanship by visualizing the movements of temple carpenters (“miyadaiku”). The team captured and analyzed the shaving motion of a master carpenter using a hand plane.

The craftsman described his secret simply as “pulling the hips back,” but apprentices struggled to grasp it. The motion data revealed that his hips actually sank slightly during the stroke — an insight that, once visualized, made the technique instantly clear and proved useful for training both in Japan and abroad.

While Acuity’s technology is now widely adopted in manufacturing, new uses are emerging fast. In construction, it helps evaluate posture and workflow efficiency. In the beauty industry, it refines the precision of shampooing and haircut techniques.

In medicine, surgeons use motion analysis to review and refine procedures, while rehabilitation specialists design personalized training programs based on digitized patient data. The technology is also being used in sports to enhance performance by tracking athletes’ movements.

Acuity envisions motion analysis becoming part of everyday life. In education, it could monitor children’s development and motor skills. In health and wellness, it could help people of all ages understand and improve their physical condition.

“The ideal future,” says Sato, “is one where anyone can measure their own movements — at gyms, sports facilities, or even at home — and gain insights into their health. I imagine a world where digital ‘eyes’ are everywhere, helping people monitor movement and discover new ways to grow.”

Acuity’s mission, he adds, is simple but ambitious: “to create a society where everyone can keep growing.”

Acuity is also eyeing international markets. At exhibitions across ASEAN countries, its technology has attracted strong interest. The company now plans to enter Europe — particularly Germany, where manufacturing culture runs deep.

“Our technology can unlock potential in all kinds of workplaces,” says Sato. “When workers see their own improvement, it brings motivation and pride. We hope our technology will help solve social challenges worldwide — supporting each person’s growth while driving innovation.”

Translated by Anita De Michele | JStories

Edited by Mark Goldsmith

Top photo: Envato

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