#Japan #Shinjuku, Tokyo #Central Development #Disaster Prevention #Kantaro

Revamping Landslide Detection with 'Kantaro F-Alert'

Central Development Co., Ltd. is proud to announce the launch of their newly revamped landslide detection sensor, 'Kantaro F-Alert', set to be released in January 2026. This upgrade comes as a response to the increased frequency of heavy rain and torrential weather conditions in Japan, exacerbated by global warming. As the incidence of landslides grows, it is crucial to enhance early detection systems and create robust disaster prevention infrastructure.

Rising Concerns Over Landslides

Japan has witnessed a surge in localized heavy rainfalls and rain bands in recent years, leading to an increase in the scale and frequency of landslide disasters. This trend has prompted the government to implement a five-year 'First Medium-Term Plan for Resilience' from fiscal years 2026 to 2030. The focus will be on promoting comprehensive disaster prevention and mitigation measures, ensuring long-term safety for communities across the nation.

Understanding when and where a landslide may occur can greatly enhance preventive action. Currently, predictive data on 'where' and 'how extensive' landslides may happen is largely derived from hazard maps provided by local governments. However, predicting 'when' a landslide may strike relies heavily on warning information and emergency advisories from these local authorities. To boost the accuracy of disaster alerts, new monitoring technologies that involve real-time measurements of ground conditions have become essential.

Introducing 'Kantaro F-Alert'

Developed with cutting-edge IoT technology, 'Kantaro F-Alert' is designed to deliver vital, timely information to relevant stakeholders for effective disaster prevention and mitigation. Central Development has been a pioneer in landslide detection technology since 2009, dedicated to refining their sensor capabilities. The new 'Kantaro F-Alert' was born from over 16 years of research and the insights gained from various landslide incidents worldwide. Its goal is to present alerts about potential future disasters more swiftly and accurately than its predecessors.

Features and Enhancements

The 'Kantaro F-Alert' integrates several innovative features that differentiate it from earlier models:

• - Compact Structure: The sensor, logger, and communication units are now combined into a single unit, enhancing ease of installation and maintenance.
• - High Precision: Capable of measuring inclination angles with a resolution of 0.001° and accuracy of ±0.002°.
• - Rain Gauge Connectivity: Optional connections to rain gauges and soil moisture sensors are achievable to provide comprehensive monitoring.
• - Diverse Communication Options: Users can select preferred communication carriers, including major Japanese networks like Docomo, au, and Softbank.
• - Cost-Effective Sensor: The new model is priced lower than previous versions within a specific usage limit.
• - Real-Time Monitoring: Continuous monitoring is conducted at ten-minute intervals, with data transmitted immediately.
• - User-Friendly Operation: Simplified setup requires just a connector connection to begin measuring.
• - Rapid Installation: The device can be installed at a site in about one hour using a driving rod.
• - Energy Efficient: Operation is powered by a solar panel, eliminating the need for battery replacements under suitable light conditions.
• - Instant Local Alerts: Optional features include immediate alarm functions using rotating lights and sirens.

Current Applications and Future Plans

Currently, 'Kantaro F-Alert' is used predominantly in monitoring natural slopes and embankments, with over 1,700 installations both domestically and internationally in collaboration with government bodies and private sector entities. There are ongoing efforts to involve local residents in monitoring community safety, thereby increasing public awareness and resilience against disasters.

Looking ahead, Central Development aims to expand the utility of their advanced monitoring technologies beyond Japan, exporting their valuable disaster prevention knowledge abroad. The emphasis will be on leveraging their extensive expertise in disaster management to enhance global safety measures effectively.

About Central Development

Founded in 1946, Central Development Co., Ltd. is Japan's first geotechnical consulting firm, playing a pioneering role in geology and engineering. The company is actively involved in significant infrastructure projects worldwide and continuously pushes for digital transformation in geoengineering, focusing on AI and data analytics to create new industry value.

For more information, visit the Central Development Co., Ltd. official website.