Metro Weather Co., Ltd. (Head Office: Uji, Kyoto; President and CEO: Jun-ichi Furumoto; hereinafter “Metro Weather”) is pleased to announce that we provided real-time wind observation data using our Doppler LiDAR at the “BIWAKO DRAGON INVITATION 2024,” held from Thursday, November 21 to Sunday, November 24, 2024.
While there have been cases of forecast-based wind data distribution, this marks the world’s first instance of real-time wind observation data being distributed at sailing sports, and the first time Metro Weather has applied this technology in a sports setting.

 

◼️Background and Purpose of Real-Time Wind Condition Data Distribution at BIWAKO DRAGON INVITATION 2024
Metro Weather continues to innovate Doppler LiDAR technology to contribute to global safety and a more prosperous society. Through our partnership with Yanmar Ventures Co., Ltd. that is one of our investors, we had the opportunity to support the international Dragon class yacht race hosted by Yanmar Group, a long-time supporter of global sailing competitions.
At the race venue, Yanmar Sunset Marina (1380 Mizuho-cho, Moriyama, Shiga), we deployed our Doppler LiDAR to deliver real-time wind observation data.
Beyond the technical contribution, we deeply resonated with Yanmar Group’s brand statement that is committed to realizing “A SUSTAINABLE FUTURE”, in a society where human prosperity coexists with a rich natural environment. We share their belief in the power of technology and people, and their commitment to empowering human potential and encouraging bold challenges.
By applying our wind observation technology to a sport that inspires dreams and hope, and connects people across borders and languages, we aimed to support the participating teams and race organizers and contribute to the future development of the sport.

◾️Provision of Real-Time Wind Observation Data
We delivered real-time wind condition observation data on the large screen located on the first floor of the clubhouse at Yanmar Sunset Marina.

Before teams departed, we provided 2D wind data using our in-house developed UI. During the race, we collaborated with Trac Trac JAPAN, a real-time GPS tracking service for sailing races, to integrate each boat’s live GPS data. Based on our proprietary UI, we visualized wind speed using color and wind direction using 3D graphic animations, enabling 3D data distribution.



【2D Wind Observation Data Stream】
↗️ Doppler LiDAR Installation Location
Wind Speed: color-coded, Wind Direction: animated graphics
 



【Wind Observation Data Stream/Teams reviewed wind conditions before departed】


【3D Wind Observation Data Stream】
⛵️Team Name: yacht movements displayed, Wind: Visualized as particles,
Wind Speed: color-coded, Wind Direction: animated 3D graphics
 

■ On-Site Feedback
From race participants
・“I was amazed to see real-time wind data instead of forecasts.”
・“Although not allowed during the race, I’d love to steer the yacht while comparing the wind I feel with the data.”
・“I’d like to use this for training and have it installed at our regular harbor.”
・“I want to use the 3D data for post-race analysis.”

From Yanmar Group staff
・“For safety and race management, it would be helpful to pinpoint wind conditions using latitude and longitude.”
・“If spectators on land could see the 3D data, it would help them understand the race better.”

From Mr. Takeshi Miyata of Trac Trac JAPAN
“I’ve only seen flat forecast data before. This was truly astonishing.
Wind reading is currently based on experience, but visualizing it makes it easier to explain and understand. This can help convey the appeal of sailing to the public.
Trac Trac supports many sailing events globally, and since sailing involves nature, safety is a top priority.
I see many potential applications for this real-time wind data delivery—it holds great promise.”

 

■ About Metro Weather’s Doppler LiDAR
Doppler lidar is a type of LiDAR (Light Detection and Ranging) that emits harmless infrared laser beams into the atmosphere. By analyzing the frequency shift of light reflected off fine particles in the air, it accurately measures wind conditions (direction and speed).
Metro Weather’s Doppler LiDAR is a domestically developed product based on remote sensing and signal processing technologies cultivated through radar research at Kyoto University.
It achieves world-class size and functionality, with a measurement radius of 12–13 km, and a maximum range of 15 km under favorable conditions.
Compared to conventional systems, it is one-tenth the size and weight, and significantly more cost-effective.
Our proprietary remote sensing technology enables real-time, high-resolution, 3D visualization of wind conditions, supporting safe and comfortable infrastructure development across wide areas.