Hitachi To Reduce Elevator Inspection Staff by Half With AI

Tokyo, Japan, conglomerate Hitachi plans to use generative AI software developed by Silicon Valley, California-headquartered Nvidia for elevator maintenance inspections, cutting the number of workers required for the job in half, Nikkei Asia reports. The software will be customized through training using Hitachi Building Systems' product specifications and maintenance manuals. A nearby server connected to data centers will communicate wirelessly with cameras outfitted with microphones and speakers mounted to maintenance workers' helmets or goggles. The move comes as Japan is facing growing demand for elevator maintenance as skilled mechanics retire, depleting the workforce.