Smart Tile Saver
An infrared image analysis system utilizing artificial intelligence (AI)
The analysis of infrared images has traditionally relied on the experience and knowledge of skilled technicians.
This method involves technicians visually inspecting images to determine areas of degradation, which can lead to variations in results based on the technician's experience and subjectivity.
To address this issue, we have developed an image analysis system utilizing artificial intelligence (AI). This system ensures consistent analysis results regardless of who performs the assessment, thereby eliminating subjective interpretations.
Automatic analysis of exterior tile detachment by AI
'Smart Tile Saver' automatically detects the grid of exterior tile joints and tile detachment from thermal images captured by an infrared camera using proprietary algorithms. This system aims to reduce human workload in analysis, standardize judgment criteria, and enhance output accuracy.
Conventional analysis methods
- Technicians manually assess all instances of tile detachment.
- The protruding sections are typically marked visually to indicate their approximate locations.
Analysis with Smart Tile Saver
- Tile detachment is automatically determined by AI.
- In addition to tile detachment, the position of each individual tile can also be detected.
The problems with conventional infrared thermal image analysis methods are…
１．High human workload resulting in costly labor.
The analysis of infrared thermal images is entirely manual, resulting in high labor costs. Additionally, variations in the experience and skills of the workers lead to differences in the associated labor costs.
２．High subjectivity leading to low objectivity of the data.
Due to the judgment based on visual confirmation by workers for marking positions and determining detachment, the criteria for judgment vary depending on the worker, resulting in low objectivity of the data.
"Infrared camera inspections for tile detachment involve workers manually inspecting each detachment in the thermal image while visually confirming. Additionally, the conventional analysis method typically involves adjusting the level and span of the thermal image to about 5°C to visually confirm areas with temperature differences. As a result, the current method is limited to adjusting the level and span and confirming only certain temperature differences."
Smart Tile Saver resolves the challenges of conventional analysis methods.
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Utilizing proprietary algorithms, Smart Tile Saver automatically recognizes tile fractures from thermal image data, estimates the temperature of the entire wall surface, and performs automatic detachment detection for each individual tile. (Patent pending)
Conventional manual analysis
- The workers manually mark the approximate positions.
Smart Tile Saver
- The AI automatically determines tile fractures and their detachment.
Verify the tile detachment analysis procedure through a video.
Two selectable workflows depending on the situation.
- SMART TILE SAVER -
①Direct analysis workflow
One of the system's key features is its ability to utilize photos taken from an angle for analysis. By loading thermal images and directly detecting tiles and determining detachment, quick assessment results can be obtained.
※The following are images of the results obtained from analysis using Smart Tile Saver.
②Ortho-analysis workflow
In addition to the direct analysis workflow in ①, Smart Tile Saver also supports the ortho-analysis workflow. Thermal images are processed into ortho images aligned with the drawings using image analysis software, and analysis is performed on the processed images.
Ortho analysis offers the significant advantage of being able to plot the positions of analysis results on drawings. ※The following are images of the results obtained from ortho analysis (results synthesized on CAD).
The benefits of utilizing Smart Tile Saver
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Efficiency improvement through analysis automation
In conventional analysis, workers manually conducted tile detachment analysis. However, by utilizing Smart Tile Saver, the judgment process is automated, allowing for tasks that are not dependent on the experience of the worker.
Higher accuracy and quality analysis results
Thanks to our proprietary algorithms, we can accurately detect each individual tile fracture down to the last piece, enabling highly precise and high-quality inspections independent of human perception. As a result, consistent results can be achieved regardless of who performs the task.
Cost reduction and quality improvement are achievable compared to conventional methods!
Ideal for preliminary surveys before scaffolding installation.
Smart Tile Saver was evaluated as 'excellent in terms of economy' in BELCA's 'Excellent Repair and Improvement Method Evaluation Project※'.
Smart Tile Saver was evaluated due to its ability to ensure the same level of accuracy as conventional analysis software while reducing the time and manpower required for analysis and deployment onto drawings. As a result, it was recognized for its effectiveness.
※The Excellent Repair and Improvement Method Evaluation Project.
The Excellent Repair and Improvement Method Evaluation Project by BELCA (Public Interest Incorporated Association Long-Life Building Promotion Association) evaluates the excellent aspects of repair and improvement methods and introduces them widely to society with the aim of promoting the effective utilization and regeneration of building stocks from a third-party perspective.
