TOKYO, October 29, 2026: Tanaka Mirai Lab, part of Tanaka Precious Metal Group Co., Ltd., has initiated a joint research project with JAF Media Works Co., Ltd. and Della Inc. to visualize drivers’ conditions, such as fatigue and stress, through multivariate analysis of sweat components and related data.
The study aims to address growing concerns in the transportation sector over driver health and safety, particularly amid driver shortages and an aging workforce. By analyzing sweat and saliva samples, as well as questionnaire responses before and after driving and after listening to healing music, the project seeks to identify objective indicators of fatigue, stress, and other conditions that currently rely on drivers’ self-assessment.
Research methodology and data collection
Sweat and saliva samples are being collected from drivers engaged in JAF Media Works’ vehicle towing operations, both before and after driving and after exposure to healing music provided by Della. The samples are gathered using a noninvasive extraction method. Inorganic components will be analyzed using inductively coupled plasma (ICP) analysis, while organic components will be examined through nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy, led by Tanaka Mirai Lab. Questionnaire surveys to assess stress and perceived fatigue are conducted alongside sample collection.
Focus on biosensing and multivariate analysis
The research is positioned within biosensing, aiming to explore biological signals that reflect changes in a person’s condition. Unlike conventional approaches that measure single components, this study uses multivariate analysis to capture patterns of change across multiple organic and inorganic sweat components. The project also examines the effects of healing music on relaxation and stress relief, leveraging Della’s expertise in sound wellness.
Roles of participating companies
Tanaka Mirai Lab is responsible for establishing the research framework and conducting component analyses, with a view toward future sensor applications. JAF Media Works manages sample collection and questionnaires in real-world driving environments. Della provides healing music and incorporates research findings from psychological and medical perspectives.
Ethics and data management
The study has received approval from the Research Ethics Committee for Research Involving Human Subjects, Public Health Research Foundation. An anonymized data management system ensures personal information is kept separate from analysis data.
Comments from company representatives
Masahiro Ito, Chief Researcher at Tanaka Mirai Lab, said the collaboration brings together three companies from different industries to explore new ways of representing the human condition. Toshihiro Toritsuka, Director at JAF Media Works, noted that objective assessments of fatigue and stress could help reduce the risk of traffic accidents by discouraging drivers from exceeding their limits. Kunihito Ikeda, Chief Director of Sound Wellness Lab at Della, highlighted the significance of applying sound science to mobility-related stress and fatigue.
Company background
Tanaka Precious Metal Group, headquartered in Chuo-ku, Tokyo, reported consolidated net sales of 1,097,813 million yen for the fiscal year ended December 2025 and employs 5,778 people. JAF Media Works, based in Minato-ku, Tokyo, is part of the Japan Automobile Federation and operates media businesses for automobile users. Della Inc., headquartered in Setagaya-ku, Tokyo, specializes in healing music and music therapy for mental and physical well-being.
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