#Japan #Setagaya, Tokyo #AI Estimation #Sunrise Electric #Prefab

Revolutionizing Cost Estimation in Electrical Engineering

Sunrise Electric Industry Co., Ltd., located in Setagaya, Tokyo, has taken a significant step towards enhancing productivity and addressing labor shortages in the electrical construction sector by integrating an AI estimation tool developed by the startup Prefab, also based in Tokyo. This groundbreaking tool aims to streamline the lengthy and often labor-intensive costing processes that are critical in electrical work.

Background and Challenges

Cost estimation in electrical construction is notoriously resource-heavy, involving substantial work hours and costs. One of the most time-consuming tasks is counting components from blueprints - known as the 'takeoff' process, which still largely relies on manual labor. This process requires extensive specialized knowledge and high accuracy to generate precise estimates. The growing need for efficiency has made it clear that we can no longer depend solely on human labor; embracing AI for enhancing operational productivity is essential.

Overview of the AI Tool

The AI estimation tool introduced by Sunrise Electric marks a significant leap forward. By simply uploading electrical construction diagrams, the tool automatically extracts quantities of components such as lights, outlets, and wiring, generating material lists seamlessly. This automation drastically reduces the time spent on manual takeoff efforts, which has historically been a bottleneck in the costing process. By alleviating these pressures, the tool directly boosts overall productivity in cost estimation.

Expected Outcomes

With the implementation of the AI estimation tool, the traditionally laborious 'takeoff' task is set to become considerably more efficient. The automation of double-checking the quantities for lights, outlets, and wiring—combined with human validation—dramatically decreases the required workload. Estimates suggest that labor efforts can be reduced by approximately 80%, corresponding to potential savings of thousands of hours annually. As a result, team members can focus on higher-value activities, such as verifying the validity of estimates and decision-making regarding methodologies, thereby achieving a balance between increased efficiency and improved accuracy in estimations.

Illustration of Labor Savings with AI Estimation Implementation

Future Prospects

Initially, the focus will be on automating the counting of lighting and outlet components along with their wiring. Subsequently, the scope will gradually expand to address all types of materials depicted on the blueprints, including mainlines and low-voltage equipment. Moreover, Sunrise Electric plans to deepen its partnership with Prefab to leverage their advanced technical knowledge and innovation, further propelling the efficiency of internal operations, including cost estimation.

Overview of Prefab Inc.

Prefab Inc. is a startup founded on March 1, 2023, with a mission to create a society where everyone can concentrate on their inherent value. This company, emerging from the University of Tokyo, specializes in AI technology research and development focused exclusively on the construction industry. Its strength lies in speedy advancements and cutting-edge technologies that directly tackle industry challenges.

For inquiries regarding this project, please contact:

Sunrise Electric Industry Co., Ltd.
President's Office
154-8521 Setagaya, Tokyo
1-21-12 Shinmachi
TEL: 03-3425-2070