#Japan #Tokyo #Google Cloud #Gemini #Hitachi

Hitachi and Google Cloud's Strategic Alliance

Hitachi Ltd. is stepping up its strategic alliance with Google Cloud as part of its mission to enhance productivity through the utilization of artificial intelligence (AI). The collaboration aims to modernize software and strengthen customer service, ultimately transforming the work processes of frontline workers in critical infrastructure sectors such as energy, railways, and manufacturing.

With the introduction of Gemini, a multimodal AI capable of comprehensively understanding and processing various forms of data such as text, images, audio, and video, frontline workers will experience a more intuitive and efficient work environment. This technology is uniquely suited to handle the physical information critical for operations, significantly reducing human errors in tasks such as equipment inspections and maintenance.

Advancements in AI Agent Development

Hitachi aims to create an environment conducive to the rapid development of AI agents tailored to specific operational needs. By leveraging Google Cloud's advanced AI technologies alongside Hitachi's extensive domain knowledge and data governance expertise, the partnership will allow for the safe and efficient application of AI in complex frontline work settings.

This initiative comes in response to pressing challenges such as workforce shortages and the aging of skilled technicians, which are hindering the handover of critical knowledge and skills. Hitachi has established the 'Agent Factory' as a development framework for AI agents, ensuring easy and swift customization to meet specific industry requirements.

The capabilities of Gemini Enterprise will allow users, even without technical expertise, to create no-code AI agents that streamline operational tasks. This democratization of AI empowers employees to innovate solutions and improve efficiencies directly from the operational frontlines.

Implementation in the Energy Sector

The first application of this technology is being tested by Hitachi Power Solutions, which oversees maintenance in the energy sector. The initiative focuses on evaluating the use of AI agents to detect common errors made during routine inspections of critical equipment, such as vacuum circuit breakers (VCBs). Previously reliant on paper checklists, technicians are now exploring how Gemini Enterprise can assist by analyzing images taken before and after maintenance work to verify compliance.

The AI agent reads input images and alerts technicians if any discrepancies are identified. This real-time quality control is expected to enhance the accuracy of inspection processes conducted by multiple personnel over thousands of devices annually, ultimately improving both the quality and efficiency of maintenance operations.

Future Prospects and Industry Impact

Looking ahead, Hitachi plans to expand the capabilities of its AI agent applications to also include real-time monitoring through video data, facilitating immediate corrective action when procedural deviations occur. By automating report generation from visual evidence, the company aims to streamline operations and ensure the preservation of technical skills and knowledge across the workforce.

This collaboration between Hitachi and Google Cloud not only aims to foster innovation within its organization but also intends to share the innovative practices and solutions developed with other organizations facing similar challenges in frontline operations. Through these efforts, Hitachi seeks to contribute to the sustainability and safety of social infrastructure.

Leadership Insights

Junya Abe, Executive Vice President of Hitachi, emphasizes that AI should be seen as an extension of human capabilities rather than merely a tool. He acknowledges the importance of the strategic alliance with Google Cloud in boosting employee productivity and accelerating innovation.

Hiroyuki Koike, a senior executive at Google Cloud Japan, remarks that advanced technologies and specialized organizational knowledge are crucial for businesses to effectively leverage generative AI to solve complex challenges. This collaboration aims to support clients at every stage of their AI project implementations.

Conclusion

By establishing a culture of democratized AI development, Hitachi hopes to encourage innovative thinking and continuous improvement in operational processes among frontline workers. This initiative represents a significant advancement toward the realization of a seamless and sustainable society by combining cutting-edge technology with deep-rooted industry knowledge.