“Soul and Soil” is an immersive and interactive installation that will allow visitors to explore the ways in which advanced technologies can improve physical and mental health in workspaces. In the location of via Tortona 14, visitors will be able to fully immerse themselves in Ricoh’s vision for the future. This includes trialling the possibilities that can be offered by this experimental and technological exhibit, observing the interaction between mind over matter, and also observe their sensations and moods which can be transformed into images and sounds for kinetic art works.

To create these experiences, Ricoh has developed two innovative technologies: one focused on indoor communications and another based on conductive printing, which can transform fabrics into sensors, integrating different patterns and designs in addition to advanced functions.

With this innovation, Ricoh seeks to make objects “intelligent”, in the etymological sense of its Latin origin “inter-legere”, which means that they are capable of intercepting and reading different kinds of data through particular sensors, with the aim of connecting them with each other through a wireless system based on UWB to respond to human needs in an innovative and responsible way.

The applications of this technology are multi-purpose and reach far beyond workspaces. Theyoffer a wide range of potential collaborations: from the world of design to the furniture industry, from the medical and health care industry to managing complex environments as well within real estate.

The research carried out by Ricoh aims at evolving the very concept of space within the workplace as well as work life in general. This research will further enhance the value of the company’s portfolio technological know-how and experience through Ricoh 3L - a prototyping programme for human beings to use in the near future, which focuses on themes like teamwork, individuality, and emotional wellbeing.