In a groundbreaking initiative, Rakuten Mobile, AWL, Inc., and Rakuten Vissel Kobe have joined forces under the auspices of the Ministry of Internal Affairs and Communications’ Regional Digital Transformation (DX) Promotion Package Project, managed by the Mitsubishi Research Institute. This collaboration officially kicked off this month with a joint demonstration in Kobe City, signaling a significant step in the integration of cutting-edge technology in Japan’s security landscape.
This project will harness edge artificial intelligence (AI) technology to optimize communication loads in large venues, such as Noevir Stadium Kobe, home to the professional soccer team Vissel Kobe, a proud member of the Rakuten Group. By fusing AWL’s intelligent camera systems, Rakuten Mobile’s robust network infrastructure, and sophisticated AI algorithms, the initiative aims to create a more responsive security environment.
The overarching goal is to tackle persistent challenges in the security sector, particularly labor shortages and rising personnel costs. While digital transformation and AI-driven automation offer promising solutions, employing cloud-based AI for surveillance in expansive arenas has proven complex. The sheer volume of video data transmission can overburden communication networks, leading to inflated operational costs and unveiling infrastructural limitations.
This partnership is structured around three innovative demonstration areas. The first involves deploying far-edge devices at surveillance camera locations to conduct real-time risk assessments and analyze video feeds using AI-powered image recognition. These devices will compress video data dynamically into three formats—text, image, and video clip—based on the assessed risk levels and live network congestion feedback from edge servers. These servers will consolidate surveillance data, generating actionable reports for security personnel through a small-scale language model (SLM).
The second demonstration will put AI’s image recognition capabilities to the test, evaluating its performance in identifying critical incidents such as falls and aggressive behaviors. This robust assessment aims to ensure the reliability of AI in various environmental conditions, with the ambition of developing versatile applications that can adapt to the security needs of different venues.
In the final demonstration, the project aims to pioneer portable, environment-agnostic security solutions that minimize disruptions to existing communication infrastructures. By merging portable camera systems with integrated AI processing and mobile network technologies, the initiative seeks to create adaptable security applications for a spectrum of environments—from bustling event venues and amusement parks to transportation hubs and retail stores, potentially even in rural settings.
Set to span from June 2025 to January 2026, this collaboration aims to significantly enhance the safety and security of communities across Japan, marking a bold stride in the practical applications of AI and innovative network solutions. After all, in the realm of technology, a secure future isn’t just closer—it’s right on the horizon.
How will this collaboration improve security in large venues?
The collaboration aims to enhance security by utilizing edge AI to optimize communication loads and conduct real-time risk assessments, making surveillance systems more responsive and efficient.
What are the three demonstration areas of the project?
The project is structured around real-time risk assessment with intelligent cameras, evaluating AI’s reliability in recognizing critical incidents, and developing portable security solutions that reduce the impact on existing communications infrastructure.
How long will the project run?
The initiative is scheduled to run from June 2025 to January 2026, seeking to advance community safety through innovative AI applications.
