Rist Launches AI Research to Automate Sewer Pipe Condition Assessment

In an innovative movement to enhance sewer management, Rist Corporation, headquartered in Kyoto, has embarked on a collaborative research project to streamline the assessment of sewer pipe conditions using advanced AI technology. This project aims to automate the evaluation of deterioration in sewer pipes, facilitating a more efficient inspection process crucial for maintaining urban infrastructure.

Current Challenges in Sewer Infrastructure

Across Japan, sewerage systems have expanded significantly, prompting continuous upgrades and maintenance of plumbing facilities. As more sewer pipes approach their standard service life, the need arises for an efficient method to assess their conditions promptly. This efficiency is critical for prioritizing maintenance actions based on urgency, particularly in aging infrastructure.

In Kyoto, the Waterworks Bureau has been conducting “mouth camera surveys” where high-resolution cameras are lowered into manholes to capture the interior condition of sewer pipes. This process allows for an internal assessment of various factors like wall damage, cracks, and corrosion. Despite having economic evaluation criteria in place, the current system of human inspection introduces variability in outcomes due to subjective assessments and time constraints.

Rist's Approach to Automating Inspection

Rist has recognized these challenges and commenced a proof-of-concept project alongside the Kyoto Waterworks Bureau and Pacific Consultants. The goal is to develop an AI model that can autonomously identify and assess the condition of sewer pipes based on the high-definition images obtained from these surveys. The automation is expected to vastly enhance the accuracy and consistency of evaluations while reducing the time required for inspections.

Development of the AI Model

The new AI model consists of two primary components:

1. Image Quality Assessment: The AI first checks for issues in the captured images such as focus, composition, and lighting. If the images do not meet quality standards, the model prompts for a re-shoot, ensuring that the data used for assessments is reliable.

2. Deterioration Assessment: In the second phase, the AI analyzes the images for signs of damage, cracks, and corrosion levels, performing a systematic deterioration assessment. This process not only improves operational efficiency but also minimizes variations in the assessment results that can occur with human evaluators.

Rist’s collaboration with Pacific Consultants, known for their expertise in infrastructure projects and digital transformation solutions, aims to combine their technical knowledge to realize this vision. The goal is to leverage AI to reduce reliance on seasoned technicians who typically gauge the deterioration of pipes by observing numerous subtle indicators and changes manually.

Future Research and Development Plans

Starting in April 2025, Rist will integrate this AI model with a Geographic Information System (GIS) developed by the Waterworks Bureau for managing and storing high-quality image data obtained from inspections. This collaboration will aim to create a seamless system where inspections, data management, condition assessments, and results storage are all managed on a single platform, significantly enhancing the efficiency of sewer pipe management.

The GIS will allow for efficient data accumulation of images related to sewer pipes and manholes while enabling user-friendly access via tablets. This consolidated approach aims to streamline the operational aspects of sewer inspections considerably, facilitating quick access to vital data for municipal authorities.

Long-term Objectives

As public sewer projects expand, more sewer pipes reach their standard service lives, increasing the urgency for effective maintenance management strategies. The intersection of limited budgets and human resources necessitates a robust system for effective maintenance and risk reduction.

Rist envisions contributing significantly to reliable and sustainable sewer services, enhancing the efficiency and effectiveness of infrastructure management in Kyoto and beyond. Their commitment to leveraging AI technology represents a significant step forward in ensuring safe and well-maintained public sewer systems.

About Rist Corporation

Founded on August 1, 2016, Rist Corporation specializes in developing systems and products that utilize AI technology for image analysis and data processing. The company is dedicated to providing solutions tailored to meet the challenges faced by clients and society, including consulting services in AI and imaging.

Company Name: Rist Corporation
Head Office: 7th Floor, Kyoto Excel Human Building, 830 Honkakuji-mae-cho, Shimogyo-ku, Kyoto
CEO: Keisuke Nagano
Website: rist.co.jp

For media inquiries, please contact:
Rist Corporation Public Relations Team
TEL: 080-4577-4027
MAIL: pr@rist.co.jp