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The Noto Peninsula earthquake caused damage to about 30,000 homes. In addition to renovation work to strengthen the structure of buildings, attention is also being paid to earthquake-resistant shelters that protect parts of homes from strong shaking. "We've seen an increase in inquiries by about 20% (compared to the same period last year). I think people are feeling a sense of crisis about the collapse of buildings, especially old buildings, due to the Noto earthquake." (Miyata Iron Works CEO Fujiichi Miyata) This shelter, developed by Miyata Iron Works in Iwakura City, Aichi Prefecture, is made of wood and iron. It is about 2 meters high and about 4 tatami mats in size, and is designed to be a safe bedroom. The reason for its strength is the patented "metal fittings." In a strength experiment conducted in collaboration with Mie University, 3 tons of sandbags were dropped on the shelter, simulating the collapse of the second floor, but it did not collapse. Furthermore, the shelter maintained its shape even when dropped from 5 meters above the ground. The reason for its strength is that "These metal fittings are used to reinforce all the joints. (The wood used) is weaker than other wood, but the iron and plywood make up for the weak spots, so when it is assembled into a shelter, the metal fittings give it strength. As long as the wood does not fall apart, it will not fall over." (CEO Miyata) The strength comes from the fastening metal fittings, which were developed and patented in-house. Low cost and eligible for local government subsidies It takes one day to set up, and costs about 500,000 yen including installation. Others cost over 2 million yen, so it can be set up at low cost and is eligible for local government subsidies. "Unlike earthquake reinforcement, it is visible. (During the Noto earthquake) I think everyone gathered in their old houses with their grandchildren and children to celebrate New Year's, but the shelter's greatest strength and role is to prevent it from collapsing in an instant." (CEO Miyata) (From Me-Tele's "Dodesuka! +", broadcast from 15:40 on January 19)