MedTech Actuator startup and Origin 2022 Finalist, Osaka Heat Cool (ThermoScratch), helps to tackle the symptoms of Atopic Dermatitis (AD), allergies, and other skin diseases by stopping itchiness using thermal illusion on the skin.
The idea for ThermoScratch was borne out of Osaka Heat Cool CEO, Kenzo Ibano’s personal experiences with his family’s skin issues. Regular witnessing of his son’s discomfort and intense scratching motivated him to seek out better solutions compared to what was available on the market at the time.
Recognizing the limitations of existing itch relief devices, Kenzo envisioned a more effective and comprehensive approach to addressing both heating and cooling sensations simultaneously. By combining his concern for his loved ones’ well-being with a burning drive to innovate, he embarked on the journey to create ThermoScratch – a device that offers a unique and comforting solution for itch relief.
ThermoScratch is a groundbreaking innovation in itch relief. Unlike any other device on the market, ThermoScratch utilizes the captivating “Thermal Grill Illusion” to alleviate itching sensations. Whilst other itch relief devices solely focus on heat, ThermoScratch takes it a step further by ingeniously combining both heating and cooling capabilities in a single device, providing ultimate relief through the use of cutting-edge technology. This unique approach offers its users the sensation of a comforting scratch.
Kenzo’s motivation to make his idea work was driven by a combination of his strong technology background and his co-founder’s expertise in thermoelectric semiconductors, electric circuits, and thermal haptics. This powerful blend of skills and knowledge empowers the team to overcome technical challenges and develop a product that stands out in the market.
With Kenzo’s deep understanding of the underlying technology, his is driven to create a practical and effective solution that can bring relief to individuals suffering from itching and skin issues, such as his son and wife. This shared expertise serves as the driving force behind the team’s determination to see ThermoScratch succeed and make a positive impact on the lives of those in need.
Osaka Heat Cool’s experience with the MedTech Actuator Origin
Osaka Heat Cool recently participated in the MedTech Actuator Origin Japan program as they saw the need for international exposure in order to conduct more clinical trials, and to expand their sales options. Kenzo saw Australia as an ideal fit for the company’s product and ever-expanding goals.
The MedTech Actuator Origin Japan program supports health innovation across Japan, offering emerging founders and entrepreneurs the opportunity to explore the Asia-Pacific market for the commercialisation of health innovation. offers early-stage startups and emerging entrepreneurs the opportunity to pressure test their health innovation startup or idea. Selected startups and health innovations will learn what it takes to successfully commercialize a health technology innovation, and the crucial steps for driving a health tech startup to market.
Since joining the MedTech Actuator Origin in 2022, Osaka Heat cool has accomplished several significant milestones – they have successfully completed the manufacturing of their prototypes and showcased them at various international events, garnering attention from both audiences and media in Japan. They are currently in negotiations with prominent medical companies, exploring potential partnerships to jointly launch the ThermaScratch product.
These successes are a direct result of the learnings, insights and connections gained through the MedTech Actuator Origin program, which provided Osaka Heat cool with opportunities to learn from industry experts, pressure test their innovation, and network with and pitch to the Australian startup ecosystem.
“The most beneficial aspect of being part of a MedTech Actuator program is the incredibly supportive environment. The community is unwaveringly encouraging, consistently focusing on the positive aspects of your idea and business. This positivity and support foster an atmosphere that fuels motivation and innovation, helping startups like ours thrive and progress.” – Professor Kenzo Ibano, CEO, Osaka Heat Cool.
Osaka Heat Cool are currently in negotiations with prominent medical companies, exploring potential partnerships to jointly launch their product to the market.
The MedTech Actuator Origin Japan program has been instrumental to Osaka Heat Cool’s success, providing the resources, support, and international exposure that can significantly accelerate a startup’s growth and success in the global market. Osaka Heat cool highly recommends the MedTech Actuator Origin program to others interested in commercializing their health technology innovation, and driving their health tech startup to market.
Applications are now open for MedTech Actuator Origin Japan 2023
Take your health innovation to the next level with MedTech Actuator Origin Japan 2023 — an intensive program for early-stage startups and emerging entrepreneurs. This program offers early-stage startups and emerging entrepreneurs the opportunity to pressure test their health innovation startup or idea.
If you have a health innovation that you would like to take to the next level, we want you!
Apply today! Applications are open until September 15!
