Artificial Intelligence (AI) has significantly benefited early earthquake warning systems, particularly in Japan, known for its innovations in earthquake-resistant building technology. Prof. Buntara S. Gan, a professor from the Department of Architecture at Nihon University, Japan, discussed the benefits of AI for earthquake early warning systems in a public lecture held on Friday (20/9) at the Makara 04 Smart Meeting Room, 1st Floor, Faculty of Engineering Universitas Indonesia (FTUI). The lecture, attended by FTUI students, was part of the RCBE-IBB Seminar series.
AI has transformed the way the building lifecycle is understood and managed, especially in the context of earthquake resistance. Through AI applications that rely on quantitative evaluation, engineers and architects can now analyze building performance more deeply and accurately.
“One approach that has been adopted is the use of advanced sensors that collect real-time data on a building’s structural condition. These sensors enable quantitative measurement of various parameters, such as deformation, natural frequency, and response to tremors. This information is crucial, especially during an earthquake, where a building’s performance can be objectively evaluated. With quantitative data, assessments of a building’s strength and stability become more precise, enabling better decision-making in design and maintenance,” explained Prof. Buntara.
The use of Deep Neural Networks (DNN) in analyzing this data also brings significant advantages. DNN can process and learn patterns from the large datasets generated throughout a building’s lifecycle. As a result, analyses that previously took time during dynamic phases can now be done more efficiently and quickly. This approach not only improves accuracy but also accelerates the response to potential structural issues.
Prof. Buntara also noted that the use of Shaking Intensity Levels (SIL) as a method of evaluating a building’s response has provided new insights into structural diagnostics. SIL measures the level of shaking experienced by each floor, which helps in understanding how different parts of the building adapt to the loads generated by an earthquake. “With this information, adjustments can be made in the design of new buildings and the maintenance of existing ones, ensuring that every element of the structure can withstand extreme conditions,” he said.
Looking ahead, further research will focus on integrating brainwave technology to understand human responses to earthquakes. This approach is expected to improve public awareness and preparedness during disasters, as well as support the development of more effective early warning systems.
Acting Dean of FTUI, Prof. Ir. Mahmud Sudibandriyo, M.Sc., Ph.D., stated, “With all these innovations, AI and quantitative evaluation not only play a role in enhancing building resilience but also in public safety. Japan’s long history in earthquake-resistant building technology provides a solid foundation for further developments in this field.”
“Our hope for the future is to establish research collaborations linking earthquake science and public health, to deepen our understanding and improve mitigation efforts. Additionally, we aim to increase partnerships with world-class researchers,” said Siti Fauziyah Rahman, S.T., M. Eng., Ph.D., chair of RCBE UI.
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Faculty of Engineering, Universitas Indonesia
