Tokyo Artisan Intelligence Partners with JR East Consultants
In a landmark agreement, Tokyo Artisan Intelligence (TAI) has secured a capital and operational partnership with JR East Consultants (JRC), marking a significant advancement in AI applications within railway infrastructure. The collaboration aims to harness cutting-edge AI technology to address various challenges faced by the industry, aiming for a more efficient and sustainable operational framework.
Partnership Overview
TAI, headquartered in Yokohama, Kanagawa, has been at the forefront of implementing edge AI solutions tailored for real-world challenges across industries. JRC, based in Shinagawa, Tokyo, has a rich history within the JR East Group, excelling in railway infrastructure projects. Together, they plan to accelerate the deployment of edge AI solutions, especially in maintenance and inspection of railway facilities, positioning both companies as leaders in digital transformation (DX) within the railway sector.
The initial project under this collaboration will involve the co-development of a new product called “Station Monitor Edge,” integrating JRC's station monitoring software, “Station Monitor®,” with TAI’s advanced edge AI technology. This revolutionary solution aims to automate various monitoring tasks, easing the workload on operators and increasing overall efficiency.
Station Monitor®: The Future of Railway Monitoring
Since 2019, JRC has been pioneering AI software development, notably creating systems in the railway sector, including “Station Monitor®” and “Gunsyu®.” The Station Monitor® serves as a robust alert system that connects existing surveillance cameras with AI to reduce the burden on staff while enhancing their ability to monitor multiple screens effectively.
JRC's President, Seiji Onishi, expresses excitement about the partnership, emphasizing the synergy of their expertise and TAI’s innovative edge AI technology. He believes that this collaboration will provide durable and effective solutions to various challenges in the transportation sector, not limited to railways but extending to many other areas.
Comments from Company Leaders
Takaaki Nakahara, CEO and CTO of TAI, expressed his pride in collaborating with JR East Consultants, noting the critical role they have traditionally played in supporting Japan's railway infrastructure. He confidently stated that combining TAI's cutting-edge edge AI technology with JRC's extensive industry experience will yield transformative solutions for safety and efficiency in railway operations.
Nakahara also acknowledged a shared commitment to apply their combined expertise to solve challenges beyond the railway industry, demonstrating a commitment to broader societal development. Both leaders highlighted that the fusion of their talents and technologies will create impactful solutions, benefiting not just their companies but society at large.
About JR East Consultants
JR East Consultants, founded in 1989, operates at the intersection of railway technology and consultancy, striving to leverage both technical and informational resources to build sustainable societal infrastructure. The company continuously aims to enhance safety and quality while leading digital transformation efforts within the railway industry.
Company Overview
- - Name: JR East Consultants, Inc.
- - Headquarters: 1-1-1 Nishi-Shinagawa, Shinagawa, Tokyo, Japan
- - President: Seiji Onishi
- - Established: 1989
- - Business Focus: Civil engineering design, ICT services, and more.
- - Website: JR East Consultants
About Tokyo Artisan Intelligence
Founded in March 2020, TAI is a venture originating from Tohoku University, focused on nurturing talent while advancing AI technology for societal benefit. Their innovative approach involves executing AI algorithms on devices rather than relying solely on cloud computing, which enhances real-time data processing while minimizing energy consumption.
Company Overview
- - Name: Tokyo Artisan Intelligence, Inc.
- - Headquarters: 2-3-12 Shin-Yokohama, Kohoku, Yokohama, Kanagawa, Japan
- - Executives: Takaaki Nakahara (CEO, CTO), Kazumasa Okayasu (COO)
- - Established: March 2020
- - Business Focus: Research and development of deep learning algorithms, edge AI products, and training AI experts.
- - Website: Tokyo Artisan Intelligence
As both companies embark on this exciting journey, the railway industry can anticipate a new era of smart infrastructure driven by advanced AI technologies, promising enhanced safety, efficiency, and sustainability in their operations.