AI innovations in focus at Expo

Discover how the power of Artificial Intelligence (AI) is being harnessed across industries at the Innovation Expo later this month.

For anyone interested in the latest technologies, advancements and innovations – including AI – Te Pae Convention Centre is the place to be on Friday 27 and Saturday 28 September.

Several exhibitors and speakers at the Innovation Expo, produced by Christchurch City Council’s Smart Christchurch team, will showcase new applications for AI, says City Initiatives Lead Grace de Leon.

“When it comes to a technology as fast-moving and limitless as AI, it’s good to be aware of what’s out there and understand how it’s being used. AI is rapidly reshaping our world, transforming how we work and live. Seeing examples of this is key for staying innovative and finding ways to continually improve.”

Showcasing several products at the Expo is Japanese multinational and sponsor Fujitsu, which will be exhibiting a smart city AI solution used across Montréal’s transport network.

 “It analyses the traffic flow of around 2,500 traffic lights to make informed decisions, helping the city take quick and decisive action to proactively reduce traffic-related issues before they occur,” says Shane Kavanagh, Fujitsu’s Associate Director Data & AI.

“The result is smoother traffic flows, less congestion, and reduced air pollution. It also helps the city plan service maintenance routes for snowploughs and other vehicles much more effectively.”

Mr Kavanagh says AI is set to become fundamental to the operations of every industry sector-wide. 

A presentation by MBA Director (Master of Business Administration) at University of Canterbury Elsamari Botha, titled AI: Accelerating your Pursuit in Innovation, will wrap up the packed InnoBiz programme on Friday afternoon.

Says Ms de Leon, “This will provide lots of practical ideas for people in the workplace on how to innovate using AI. Then, on Saturday afternoon, we have Steve Addison from industry leading healthcare provider Pegasus Health sharing how wearable devices, augmented reality, AI and big data could revolutionise the healthcare landscape.

 “It’s exciting to consider what the many innovations on the horizon could mean for Ōtautahi Christchurch. That’s what the Expo is all about – being inspired to create a smarter future together.”  

The Innovation Expo is a free, all-ages event but registration is essential. Check out the Innovation Expo website for the full Innovation Stage programme and the list of exhibitors.