"N3 N-CUBE" provides green power and space-based heat control
NTN Corporation
| Publication date | July 25, 2024 (Posted on May 30, 2025) |
|---|---|
| Sector | Human Health, Natural Disasters / Coastal Areas |
Company Overview
NTN Corporation is a precision equipment manufacturer founded in 1918. Through the development, production, and sale of bearings –our core products– we contribute to energy efficiency by reducing friction in automobiles, aircraft, rail vehicles, and industrial machinery. In recent years, we have been actively developing products that utilize renewable energy sources such as solar and wind power. Through these efforts, we aim to address social challenges such as disaster mitigation, reduce environmental impact, and create a sustainable "NAMERAKA Society" where people can easily lead a secure and fulfilling life in harmony with nature.
Climate Change Impacts
As global temperatures rise due to climate change, the risk of heatstroke is increasing. The elderly, children, and individuals with chronic illnesses are particularly vulnerable and may experience severe symptoms. To prevent heatstroke, it is important for society as a whole to take proactive measures, such as ensuring access to cool and comfortable environments, in addition to staying hydrated and getting adequate rest.
Adaptation Initiatives
In 2019, we developed "Ｎ3 N-CUBE", a transportable independent power supply.
The "Ｎ3 N-CUBE" has the following three key features:
①High Mobility and Quick Installation
- Compactly integrated with solar and wind power generation systems along with storage batteries
- Can be quickly transported to required locations via trucks, cargo ships, and helicopters and can operate using various power sources
- Quick and easy installation (no installation qualifications required)
②Environmentally Friendly Use of Renewable Energy
- Incorporates NTN's bearing technology and uniquely designed blades to achieve a highly quiet wind turbine (vertical axis wind turbine), along with solar panels.
- Operates with zero carbon dioxide emissions and enables 24-hour power generation
③Versatile Use of Interior Space
- Suitable for various applications including restrooms, rest areas (Fig. 1), and disaster prevention warehouses, even in locations where it is difficult to install a commercial power supply.
"N3 N-CUBE" is equipped with an air conditioner and operates on electricity generated from renewable energy sources, allowing it to provide a cooling space for heatstroke prevention in parks, riverbanks, mountainous areas, construction sites, and other locations where there is no power supply.
With its high mobility, "N3 N-CUBE" can also be deployed at emergency evacuation sites to provide a power supply and Wi-Fi connectivity to support base stations during power outages. It also serves as an effective measure against heatstroke during the summer season.
To date, "N3 N-CUBE" has been utilized as a bus waiting area (Fig. 2) and a flood control center (Fig. 3).
Effects/Expected Benefits
By deploying "N3 N-CUBE" and establishing cooling facilities, the risk of heatstroke can be significantly reduced in a wide range of situations.
