Objectives

Create a human-friendly system that automates periodic, standardized, and time-intensive work so that work relating to facilities and electric power command can be performed efficiently and comprehensively according to aptitudes of both humans and machines.


Functions

The system consists of control and monitoring functions that control electric power generation and transformation; monitoring functions that monitor and record the performance of facilities, signals, and communications equipment; work management functions that provide access to data on maintenance work results; command support functions that provide support to supervisors; and training and educational functions.


Results

1. By automating standardized machinery operation, the system increases the efficiency of standardized work and prevents errors.
2. Power outage procedures are automated.
3. Collection and distribution of accurate information from work sites enhance readiness.
4. Readiness to respond to abnormal situations is enhanced.

Outline of the System

This system is broadly divided into a high-reliability, high-response system that performs remote control of electric power generation and transformation facilities and an information system that monitors the status of power facilities along lines, supports command functions, and performs high-volume information processing of a wide range of different types of data.


Details of the System

1. Control Monitoring
   The system performs automated control of electric power generation and transformation facilities, as well as independent control of facilities, and displays their status, automatically prepares operational plans for power generation facilities, and supports accident response using AI.
2. Status Monitoring
   The system monitors the status of signal communications and rain, earthquake and other natural disaster information, and generates performance statistics concerning work, breakdowns, and electric power volumes.
3. Work Management
   The system manages the performance of maintenance work.
4. Command Work Support
   The system provides support when irregularities occur in communications and decision- making.
5. Training and Education
   The system supports knowledge and technical education and training in dealing with irregularities.

Background of Development and Future Enhancements

In conjunction with the transfer of the Tokyo regional head office, the transfer of command functions for facilities, electric power, signals, communications, and power supply to Tabata was used to consolidate facility and electric power related functions into a Facility Command System. In September 1990, a project team was established within the JR East head office, and development began in November 1991. Following comprehensive testing, operation of the information system began in July 1995 and of the control system in November of that same year. In November 1996, the Odawara Branch was consolidated, as were the Utsunomiya Branch in December of that year and the Kofu Branch in January 1997.