Introduction and installation of cameras for blizzard and whiteout measures to reduce traffic accident risks.
Window-mounted camera "Mihalmo"
[Case Study of Local Government] Introduction and installation of cameras for blizzard and whiteout measures to reduce traffic accident risks.
AGC, the Japan Meteorological Association, and Tsukigata Town in Hokkaido conducted a demonstration experiment combining real-time images obtained from an outdoor camera called "Mihalmo," installed on windows (indoor side), with AI from the Japan Meteorological Association. This experiment aimed to predict whiteout occurrences and visibility forecasts for up to one hour in Tsukigata Town, which were communicated through digital signage. (December 2024 - March 2025) Surveys conducted after this demonstration experiment suggested a certain effectiveness in reducing the risk of traffic accidents during winter. Here, we will introduce how the demonstration experiment utilizing "Mihalmo" has contributed to alleviating actual concerns. *1 Whiteout... Originally refers to a phenomenon where the ground is covered in snow and the sky is obscured by thin clouds, making the surroundings appear uniformly white, thus making it impossible to distinguish between the sky and the ground. It is also used to describe a phenomenon where visibility is completely obstructed by snow or blizzards, rendering the surroundings completely invisible. At this time, the area becomes entirely white, making it nearly impossible for drivers to see the road or obstacles ahead, increasing the risk of traffic accidents. A whiteout specifically refers to a state of significantly poor visibility and often occurs in cold regions like Hokkaido during winter.
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◆ "Concerns" in Hokkaido In Hokkaido, poor visibility due to snowstorms has been a serious issue for many years. Whiteouts can completely obscure the road ahead, leading to traffic accidents and the risk of road closures due to multiple collisions, which can significantly impact logistics. Additionally, general weather forecasts are broad and it has been difficult to pinpoint the occurrence of whiteouts, which are said to be highly localized. ◆ What is the demonstration experiment using "Mihalmo" and AI from the Japan Meteorological Association for winter whiteout prediction? This demonstration experiment aimed to reduce the risk of winter traffic accidents caused by whiteouts by providing more accurate real-time visibility information by combining AGC's "Mihalmo" with AI from the Japan Meteorological Association. Based on this, it became possible to disseminate pinpoint visibility forecast information that was continuously corrected by the Japan Meteorological Association. ◆ Benefits gained from the demonstration experiment In a survey conducted after the demonstration experiment, 62% of respondents reported that they used this forecast information to adjust their travel timing and drive more safely than usual, suggesting a certain effectiveness in reducing the risk of winter traffic accidents.
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◆ Points of Differentiation through the Use of "Mihalmo" By combining "Mihalmo" with AI, it becomes possible to obtain high-precision real-time observation data as well as to provide predictive information based on that data. This "Mihalmo" is an indoor-installed outdoor shooting camera that employs an easy attachment and detachment method using magnets, which gives it the following characteristics: - Since it is installed indoors, it is less affected by external environmental factors (the burden of waterproofing, dustproofing, and low-temperature measures is reduced, and maintenance labor is minimized). - Compared to typical outdoor-installed cameras, it does not require installation work, thus reducing the burden in terms of time and cost for implementation. In fact, during this demonstration experiment, the installation of "Mihalmo" was completed in about one hour, and stable image data was obtained even during periods when the average outdoor temperature was below freezing. This time, we introduced a case study of "Mihalmo" for whiteout prediction, but we will continue to propose various ways to utilize "Mihalmo" for municipalities and road managers facing challenges in winter traffic safety measures and road management.
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AGC Inc. is a company that challenges itself to create new value in the business areas of "Glass," "Electronics," "Chemicals," "Life Sciences," and "Ceramics & Others." In the architectural glass business, it holds a top-level share in the global market. Currently, it is expanding its business globally and responding to new demands such as further enhancing the functionality of glass and addressing environmental concerns. Please feel free to consult us when you need our services.
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