#Japan #Hyogo #Hitachi Systems #CYDEEN #Water Supply

Hitachi Systems Leverages AI for Water Pipe Analysis in Hyogo Prefecture

Hitachi Systems, in collaboration with water utilities in Hyogo Prefecture, has initiated a groundbreaking pilot project from January to March 2025. The project utilizes CYDEEN Degradation Factor Analysis Support Service to analyze the deterioration of water pipes through AI technology. By consolidating various types of data, including pipe types, installation years, and leakage history, the project aims to identify not only the aging effects on water infrastructure but also the intricate factors contributing to potential leaks.

The project produced a color-coded pipeline diagram indicating the risk of leaks based on installation year (left) and the AI-driven deterioration analysis results (right). Harnessing these insights, water utilities can prioritize the replacement of high-risk pipes, optimizing their limited human and financial resources for more effective and efficient water supply management.

Background

Japan faces over 20,000 incidents of water leaks and pipe failures annually, marking a significant concern for public utilities and community water supply. A combination of aging infrastructure from Japan's high economic growth era and escalating operational challenges, such as workforce shortages and budget constraints, necessitates urgent maintenance efficiency improvements. By conducting precise, data-driven assessments, utilities can strategically address pipes at higher risk for leaks, thus enhancing the stability of water supply.

Project Content

During this collaborative initiative, Hitachi Systems deployed the CYDEEN service to examine maintenance data related to water infrastructure. Through a combination of owner data from various water utilities and open-source data, AI statistical analysis was systematically applied to identify water pipes at risk of deterioration. This analysis, supported by core data analytics technology developed by Hitachi, aims to predict damages and assess influencing factors effectively, even in scenarios with minimal abnormal injury data.

Traditionally, water pipe deterioration is perceived as primarily age-related, but the project revealed an intricate scenario:

• - Some older pipes, exceeding their intended lifespan, show a low risk of leakage.
• - Conversely, newer pipes under 30 years of installation are not exempt from leak risks.
• - The conditions affecting pipe risks extend beyond mere installation dates to include pipe types, lengths, water pressure, and soil conditions.

The participating water utilities are now positioned to methodically prioritize pipe upgrades, aiming to ensure stable water supply while considering community impacts. This initiative serves as a valuable tool in executing their operational policies.

Addressing Social Issues

The CYDEEN service aims to empower water utilities grappling with workforce shortages and budget constraints, allowing them to devise more effective pipe renewal plans, thereby contributing to a consistent and dependable water supply for residents.

Future Outlook

Hitachi Systems is committed to extending the capabilities of the CYDEEN program, enhancing the accuracy of water deterioration assessments by utilizing data related to water pressure and flow rates. Future endeavors will also focus on comprehensive diagnostics related to sewage infrastructure, ultimately leading to better maintenance management orchestrated through advanced technology. This progression underscores Hitachi's dedication to ensure the sustainability and efficiency of water management systems.

More Information on CYDEEN Services

• - CYDEEN Degradation Factor Analysis Support Service
• - CYDEEN Water Infrastructure Monitoring Services

Hitachi Systems will also present these advances at the Local Government Information Technology Promotion Fair 2025 on October 8-9 at Makuhari Messe, showcasing the service and sharing case studies during vendor presentations.

About CYDEEN

The CYDEEN solution has evolved over 25 years, supporting the lifecycle of public projects from planning to maintenance through the integration of cutting-edge technologies. It fosters the digital transformation of operational practices across various fields, striving to address immediate issues and improve quality and efficiency. For more details, visit CYDEEN's official site.

About Hitachi Systems

Hitachi Systems excels in addressing diverse industry challenges, leveraging the knowledge and expertise of its personnel in collaboration with Hitachi Group companies. Their focus remains on the Lumada business and supporting customers' digital transformations while promoting sustainable development in alignment with the UN’s SDGs. Further insights can be accessed at Hitachi Systems.