Innovative AI Model for Assessing Sewage Pipe Deterioration Wins National Award

AI Model for Sewage Pipe Assessment Wins Award

In a significant achievement, a joint research project aimed at automating the assessment of sewage pipe deterioration has been awarded the prestigious 2025 National Minister of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism Award for the "Circulation Road Sewage Award." The project is a collaboration between Pacific Consultants Co., Ltd., the Kyoto City Waterworks Bureau, and Rist Co., Ltd.

Award Ceremony

The award ceremony took place on September 10, 2025. The project titled "Solving Maintenance Management Challenges with AI and High-Quality Pipe Inspection Cameras" received recognition in the asset management category, showcasing its innovative approach to enhancing efficiency and accuracy in sewage pipe assessments.

Project Details

The research leverages high-resolution pipe mouth inspection cameras, used by the Kyoto City Waterworks Bureau, combined with cutting-edge AI technology. This fusion has significantly improved both the accuracy of inspections and the productivity of maintenance efforts. Two key AI models were developed: the "AI Image Quality Assessment Model," which determines whether the images captured are suitable for evaluation, and the "AI Deterioration Assessment Model," which assesses the condition and extent of any deterioration in the pipes.

Thanks to AI, the traditional reliance on human experience has been reduced, allowing for consistently high-quality image capture and deterioration assessments. This technological advancement contributes to more efficient maintenance management, ensuring that the sewage systems are operated and maintained at optimal standards.

About the National Minister of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism Award

The Circulation Road Sewage Award was established in the 20th year of the Heisei era, based on the 21st-century concept of sewage systems that promote healthy water circulation, resource recycling, and energy sustainability. The award recognizes outstanding initiatives that respond to changing socio-economic conditions and contribute to society in various ways. By celebrating such achievements, it aims to inspire other organizations across the country to implement similar initiatives, thus advancing the realization of a nationwide "Circulation Road Sewage" system. For more details, you can visit the official website: MLIT Sewage Award.

About Pacific Consultants Co., Ltd.

Founded in 1951, Pacific Consultants has established itself as a leading construction consultancy firm over its 70-year history. The company has been deeply involved in planning, designing, and operating social infrastructure projects across urban development, architecture, railway systems, roads, airports, ports, rivers, and water supply and sewerage systems in Japan and abroad. The company's vision, "Producing the Future," emphasizes its commitment to realizing a sustainable society where everyone can live with peace of mind by providing new value to society.