Hizappy Project: Knee Health Experiment at Miraikan, Aug 1 - Sep 6, 2026

The "Hizappy Project: Let's Create a Happy Knee Future! Starting with Everyone's Step" will be held at the National Museum of Emerging Science and Innovation (Miraikan) in Koto Ward, Tokyo, from August 1st to September 6th, 2026. This joint initiative with Keio University School of Medicine, Department of Orthopedic Surgery, aims to foster a society where people can remain active and enjoy movement independently, regardless of age.

Developing the "Knee Robustness Index (KRI)"

Knee pain often goes unnoticed until it becomes significant, making it difficult to detect overuse before symptoms appear. Building on recent research that allows for easier measurement of knee load during level walking, this experiment seeks to develop a new index, the "Knee Robustness Index (KRI)," to accurately estimate knee stress during various daily activities. KRI will analyze data on participants' knee movements under different conditions, such as slopes, walking speed, and body weight, to understand how the knee responds.

The project aims to visualize knee load based on activity environments and individual characteristics, enabling people to choose appropriate activities while continuing their passions. It's an initiative to create a new "measuring stick" for knee protection and make everyone's knees happy.

Experience and Participation Flow

Participants will wear small wearable sensors on their legs to collect walking data on flat ground and slopes. This data will contribute to KRI development. After the experience, participants will receive feedback on knee load based on their body composition, gait waveform, and walking data, serving as a first step toward knee health maintenance. Sharing observations with researchers and staff will also aid in refining the study.

The process includes filling out consent forms and questionnaires, followed by approximately 15 minutes of physical function measurement (InBody, height, grip strength, flexibility, balance, knee ultrasound), about 30 minutes of walking measurement under various conditions, and about 10 minutes for feedback and a survey. Participants may need to remove their shoes, so comfortable clothing that allows for knee movement is recommended.

Eligibility and Event Details

Participants must be 18 years or older, currently pain-free, able to ascend/descend slopes without handrails, have no history of knee disease or surgery, and not be undergoing orthopedic treatment for conditions affecting gait (excluding upper limb/osteoporosis issues), and have never been diagnosed with osteoarthritis.

Event Details

• Dates: August 1, 2026 (Sat) – September 6, 2026 (Sun)
• Venue: Miraikan, 1F Experiment Space (Reception: 1F Symbol Zone, Tokyo Mirai Park entrance)
• Time: Undetermined (Check reservation status on the special website)
• Fee: Free
• Reservation: Required (Check availability and book via the special website)

Access

The venue is indoors, ensuring a comfortable experience regardless of the weather. Nearest stations are Yurikamome Tokyo Big Sight Station and Rinkai Line Kokusai-Tenjijo Station.

This event offers a valuable opportunity to understand your knee condition and contribute to future health maintenance. For detailed reservation status and the latest information, please visit the Miraikan official website.