Takano Launches Web App 'Kagemiru' on June 15, 2026, Using AI to Generate Awning Installation Previews from Smartphone Photos

Takano Co., Ltd. (Headquarters: Miyada Village, Kamiina District, Nagano Prefecture; President and CEO: Masahiro Takano) has developed 'Kagemiru,' a web application that leverages generative AI to create installation previews of its awning and parasol products in approximately 60 seconds from a single photo taken by a customer using a smartphone. The service is scheduled to launch on June 15, 2026, initially targeting the company's sales representatives, authorized dealers, and select customers.

The application adopts an industry-leading specification by running two different generative AI models in parallel, enabling users to generate and compare up to four completed design images with a single operation. It is designed to allow sales staff to complete the visualization process during customer conversations, eliminating the need to return to the office after on-site visits to manually create installation mockups. This initiative marks the first on-the-ground implementation of Takano's philosophy of 'using AI as a means to deliver tangible results' within its exterior products business.

Overview of 'Kagemiru'

'Kagemiru' is a web application that allows customers to instantly preview how Takano's awnings and parasols would look when installed, simply by taking a photo of the intended installation site (e.g., a home garden or store terrace) with their smartphone. The AI automatically composites the product into the image, generating a realistic preview as if the awning were already installed.

URL: https://kagemiru.takano-net.co.jp/

Launch Date: Starting June 15, 2026

Supported Products: Standalone awning 'Riparo' (with 'Cassiopeia' and 'Stella' to be added gradually)

After uploading a single photo, customers can intuitively select the following options:

- Canvas and frame colors (8 canvas colors / 2 frame colors) - Size (small / standard / large) - Canvas open/closed state - Multi-unit configuration (up to 6x6 units in horizontal and depth directions) - Styling options such as tables and chairs - Free-text description of installation location (e.g., 'by the window,' 'left side of the entrance')

After selection, the completed image is generated in approximately 60 to 90 seconds. This enables customers to visually confirm the final appearance before purchase, supporting confident and satisfying decision-making.

Naming Concept

'Kagemiru' combines the Japanese words 'kage' (shadow), referring to the comfortable shade created by awnings and parasols, and 'miru' (to see), reflecting the app's core value: allowing users to 'see the shade' before installation. The name embodies Takano's desire for customers to experience the ambiance and presence of its products prior to purchase.

Technical Features of the Service

To offer customers a wider range of choices, 'Kagemiru' adopts an advanced system rare in the industry:

- Simultaneous generation of four design patterns using two types of generative AI

By running two distinct generative AI models in parallel, the app generates four completed design images in a single operation, allowing side-by-side comparison. This makes it easier for users to select their preferred option and enhances decision confidence.

- Browser-based access with no app installation required

The application is accessible via web browsers on smartphones, tablets, and PCs, with no need to download a dedicated app.

Development Background – Industry Challenges and AI-Driven Solutions

In the exterior design industry, a small number of sales representatives are often responsible for covering large geographic areas, resulting in significant time spent on site visits and office-based tasks. At the same time, for customers, awnings and parasols represent a significant investment, yet it is difficult to visualize how they will look once installed, creating a psychological barrier to purchase.

Takano considered whether generative AI could be used as a tool to address both challenges. By delegating image compositing tasks to AI, sales representatives can be freed from administrative burdens and instead dedicate their time and energy to personalized, lifestyle-oriented consultations with each customer.

This application represents the first practical implementation of Takano's philosophy: 'advancing AI utilization not for its own sake, but to achieve measurable results,' applied directly within its exterior business operations.

Three Key Values Delivered by 'Kagemiru'

[1] Innovation in Customer Experience (CX)

Even without specialized knowledge, customers can instantly preview the post-installation appearance by simply taking a photo with their smartphone. By eliminating the uncertainty of 'not knowing how it will look,' the app delivers a satisfying and confident purchasing experience.

[2] Transformation of Sales Activities

Previously, installation previews were created manually in the office after site visits. Now, sales representatives can show these visuals instantly during customer conversations. This allows them to redirect time previously spent on administrative tasks toward more meaningful 'customer-facing time.'

[3] AI Utilization for Holistic Business Enhancement

The time saved through AI-driven operational efficiency can be reinvested into higher-value customer interactions. This is not merely about partial labor reduction, but a practical example of using AI to qualitatively upgrade the entire business.

Future Outlook

Takano will continue to leverage generative AI not as a mere efficiency tool, but as a means to create customer value and drive qualitative business transformation. Based on insights gained from this application, the company plans to gradually expand AI utilization to other operational areas within its exterior business, as well as to other business divisions.

About Takano

'From Manufacturing to Creation'

Starting with spring manufacturing, Takano expanded into office furniture and exterior products, then into advanced electronics, medical and welfare equipment, and clinical diagnostic reagents. The company has continuously entered new fields and challenged the development of innovative products. This expansion capability is Takano's defining characteristic and the source of its growth. Guided by its management philosophy of 'maintaining high aspirations, abiding by social rules, anticipating societal changes, and contributing to a prosperous society through sustainable growth and development,' Takano will continue to explore possibilities from all angles and challenge uncharted territories.

Company Overview

Company Name: Takano Co., Ltd. (Tokyo Stock Exchange Standard Market, Securities Code: 7885) Headquarters: 137 Miyada, Kamiina District, Nagano Prefecture 399-4301, Japan Representative: President and CEO Masahiro Takano Founded: July 1, 1941 Incorporated: July 18, 1953 URL: https://www.takano-net.co.jp/ Business: Manufacturing and sales of office furniture (including office chairs), springs, exterior products, electronics-related products (image inspection systems, electromagnetic actuators), and medical and welfare equipment