AI tool developed to assess earthquake damage

The AI tool, developed by the National Center for Research on Earthquake Engineering (NCREE), significantly reduces the time required for initial damage assessments. While human evaluators take 30 seconds to a minute, the AI can provide a preliminary assessment in one second. This efficiency gain means certified structural engineers using the tool are reportedly 15 times faster than their unassisted colleagues.

A key benefit of this AI model for engineers is its potential to eliminate redundant travel for reassessments, which currently consumes a considerable amount of time. The model's ability to make immediate assessments could streamline the reconstruction process following seismic events, a need highlighted after a powerful quake in Tainan and Chiayi damaged 4,291 buildings.

Beyond professional use, a publicly available version, "safe and seismic-resistant home AI," will allow individuals to assess their homes using pictures of structural walls, pillars, and beams. This public tool is designed to offer a preliminary indication of a structure's condition, similar to a rapid test, and will recommend professional consultation if potential safety concerns are identified. This approach aims to provide early information, addressing the common delay in obtaining professional evaluations.