In the "Word of the Year" contest organized by the University of Warsaw, the word "artificial intelligence" won in 2023. The topic of AI is lighting up the discussion to a fever pitch - from the utopian vision of the next technological revolution to the dystopian vision of the destruction of civilization. Artificial intelligence can have a not inconsiderable impact on cities, the question is what kind?
As part of our #ReportThursday series, we present documents, reports and guides on architecture, cities and local government that are certainly worth publicizing and promoting. This week we look at the report "Artificial Intelligence in Cities," compiled by Maciej Antczak as part of the Lighthizer Analysis Center.
The report focuses on summarizing some of the solutions of using AI in city management and its systems, discussing only the positive aspects of the new technologies. What has been pointed out here?
The report is available on the website of the Lighthizer Analysis Center.
"Artificial Intelligence in Cities" report © Lighthouse Analysis Center.
© Lighthouse Analysis Center
on the road
Maciej Antczak focuses primarily on the introduction of solutions to urban infrastructure - unequivocally pointing out that artificial intelligence should not become an overscaled gadget, but a complement to systems or a cheaper solution. Where does the author see opportunities to introduce AI?
Among the urban elements mentioned is the Intelligent Transportation System (ITS) - among others by introducing deep learning, allowing the system to learn to analyze data. Using AI would allow improving traffic flow, managing video surveillance systems or displaying parking information. For example, the use of video surveillance cameras in one American city has made it easier to determine the number of vacant spaces.
AI may also be to be applied to public transportation. The collection could be enhanced by simpler and faster analysis of data from cameras or cashless payments. In this way, information on the number of passengers could help develop new schedules.
in resources
One of the problems associated with Renewable Energy Sources is the instability of energy production, depending on weather conditions, avoiding this problem could become easier due to the use of AI and the creation of Smart Grids - adjusting production according to the state of the grid and storage facilities.
A similar AI solution can be helpful in upgrading energy lighting - for example, adjusting lamp sensors to motion or weather changes, so that they generate less light when not needed.
Equally interesting applications will be found in waste management - through sensors that create the route of garbage trucks, to robotization of waste segregation. The same is true for water leaks in water supply networks.
In planning?
We can also imagine the use of artificial intelligence at the stage of creating local plans, deciding on infrastructure solutions, or creating urban spaces. Antczak's report is a prelude to further research on the topic of using AI, including in areas we do not yet know.
An example of designing with AI was presented on architekturaibiznes.pl by Dobrawa Bies, presenting the work of Gabriela Piast-Tworek.
Artificial intelligence, however, will not replace humans, and the development of these technologies should not obscure the simple conclusion that investment costs should be aligned with impacts.
The report is available on the website of the Lighthouse Analysis Center.
