Exploring Innovative Local Governance Through AI in Machida City

On October 1, 2023, Machida City, in collaboration with Asilla Inc., a cutting-edge AI startup, launched a remarkable initiative to improve community governance through advanced technology. The project commenced after the two parties signed a Memorandum of Understanding, setting the stage for a year-long experiment at the Machida Terminal Plaza.

The primary objective of this project is to establish a safer and more secure environment for residents by quickly detecting crimes and accidents within public facilities. Additionally, the initiative aims to analyze pedestrian traffic flow, which will greatly aid in effective facility management and urban development strategies.

Objectives of the Experiment

Enhancing Safety and Security

The implementation of Asilla's AI solutions, specifically "AI Security asilla" and "asilla BIZ," transforms existing surveillance systems at the Machida Terminal Plaza. This technology is designed to immediately identify criminal activities or unsafe conditions, enabling prompt responses to uphold citizen safety.

Another essential part of this project involves understanding how people move through public spaces. By visualizing foot traffic, authorities can better plan for future developments, particularly analyzing the usage patterns of citizens in the plaza and surrounding areas.

Experiment Structure

The experiment will feature eight advanced surveillance cameras outfitted with Asilla's intelligent systems on the second floor of Machida Terminal Plaza. These cameras will leverage behavior detection algorithms to alert security personnel about accidents or suspicious activities in real time, thus enhancing overall safety standards.

By evaluating foot traffic before and after the temporary closure of the city-managed parking lot, the city intends to gather core data for prospective redevelopment initiatives. Furthermore, this experiment will facilitate local startups by demonstrating the efficacy of AI products, potentially enabling them to expand their market reach.

Roles of Collaborating Entities

To ensure the success of this ambitious venture, various entities are collaborating effectively:

- Machida City: Responsible for coordinating facility use and disseminating relevant information to the media.
- Asilla Inc.: Tasked with system installation, operational support, and media relations.
- Tokyu Corporation: Provides essential support and overall management of the facilities involved in the experiment.
- Zaimax Corporation: Oversees the on-site management of the facilities.

Expected Outcomes

Visualizing Foot Traffic

The experiment will result in concrete data on foot traffic patterns, enabling Machida City to evaluate urban planning efforts initiated during the 1970s. Analyzing the flow of people around the closure of the city-managed parking lot will further offer insights into future development efforts.

Safe Facilities Management

Utilizing behavior detection capabilities to identify accidents and detect potential security threats will lead to the establishment of a more secure environment within facilities. This proactive approach will not only increase safety but also alleviate the workload of security personnel.

Marketing Enhancement Through Data

Studying visitor behavior in public spaces during weekends, weekdays, and special events will facilitate effective marketing strategies based on the preferences of the local population.

Improved Facility Image Through AI

By leveraging AI to bolster security and create a reassuring environment for customers, the perception of the Machida Terminal Plaza will significantly improve. The integration of AI in security operations also aims to lessen the burden on security staff.

Voices from Collaborating Enterprises

Yamamoto Eiichiro, Director of Future Design Laboratory at Tokyu Corporation, expressed enthusiasm regarding their partnership with Asilla Inc. He noted that this collaboration is focused on enhancing security services and optimizing facility management, leading to an improved customer experience.

Similarly, Harada Tetsuya from Zaimax Corporation emphasized their commitment to supporting this experiment, paving the way for a safer urban environment as they utilize innovative AI solutions.

AI Innovations

About AI Security asilla

AI Security asilla is a state-of-the-art system that analyzes real-time footage from existing surveillance cameras. It detects abnormal behaviors—such as violence or health issues—and alerts security personnel instantly, significantly enhancing response times while relieving staff from exhaustive monitoring duties.

About asilla BIZ

Asilla BIZ serves as a real-time platform for crowd analysis, counting the number of individuals and assessing congestion levels using existing camera feeds. This system greatly assists in managing public spaces more effectively and enriching the overall customer experience.

Support for Local Entrepreneurs

The Machida Trial Order Certification System empowers local businesses by certifying innovative products that exhibit advanced technology. Throughout this two-year certified period, the city aims to promote these businesses through various initiatives, including participation in public events and increased exposure through citywide communication channels.

Conclusion

The collaboration between Machida City and Asilla Inc. signals a progressive shift towards more responsive and efficient urban governance through the implementation of AI technology. This experiment is not only enhancing safety but is also setting a precedent for future developments in smart city innovations. As cities continue to evolve, such groundbreaking approaches will undoubtedly shape the future of urban living in Japan.