[Examples of Joint Research and Collaboration] Launch of a Joint Project Between Ribane Co., Ltd. and Takuto Yoshida of Kyorin University Graduate School!

【共同研究・連携事例】株式会社リバネスと杏林大学大学院 吉田拓登さんとの共同プロジェクト開始!

We have now selected the winning projects for the Ad-Venture Scholarship from among the applications submitted at the Ad-Venture Forum held in December 2025.

For information on the Ad Venture Scholarship, please contactthis way (direction close to the speaker or towards the speaker)

Topic Title: Development of an Emergency Auxiliary Power Source Using Dialysis Wastewater — Study on Capacity Expansion to Power a Vital Signs Monitor at 20 W for 3 Hours

Company: Ribboness Co., Ltd.

Researcher: Takuto Yoshida, Master’s Program, Kyorin University Graduate School (Affiliation at the time of application: Gunma-Perth University)

Below are the scholarship applications from students.

Details of Cooperation

Dialysis waste liquid generated during dialysis treatment contains electrolytes such as Na⁺, K⁺, Ca²⁺, Cl⁻, acetic acid, and glucose, as well as organic components, and requires proper treatment. On the other hand, during disasters or power outages, maintaining the operation of medical equipment—such as dialysis machines and vital signs monitors—can pose a challenge.

In this study, we focus on the components contained in this dialysis waste fluid and examine the possibility of utilizing it as a small-scale power generation system. First, we will verify its potential for use as an emergency backup power source for low-power-consumption devices, such as vital signs monitors.

Reason for Application

While studying clinical engineering, I have come to strongly recognize the importance of ensuring that medical devices continue to operate reliably. In particular, significant challenges remain in establishing systems to ensure the continuity of medical care even under unusual circumstances, such as during disasters.

On the other hand, while dialysis waste liquid has traditionally been treated primarily as waste, we believe there is potential for new applications by leveraging its compositional characteristics. In this study, we aim to contribute to both reducing the burden on medical facilities and enhancing their resilience by reusing this waste liquid as an energy source.

Vision for the future

We are working to improve the output and stability of our power generation system, and as an initial step, we aim to demonstrate that the system can power a load equivalent to a vital signs monitor for a certain period of time.

In addition, we will present our findings at academic conferences and other venues, and by exploring their potential applications in dialysis machines and related equipment, we aim to develop this technology into one of the new energy options available in clinical settings.

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