SANKEN SETSUBI KOGYO CO., LTD.

Currently, our Technology Headquarters is developing a new project called "BUP" (BIM Unification Platform). RK plays a vital role as the "core" of this new business. Specifically, it connects the "Central Monitoring System" and "BIM" (Building Information Modeling).

The "Central Monitoring System" records and accumulates various data from building equipment daily. By effectively linking and visualizing this data with BIM, we can easily and precisely understand the status of each piece of equipment—this is a major advantage of "BUP." We are leveraging RK to build this innovative building management system.
※1 BUP…BIM Unification Platform
※2 Central Monitoring System…A device embedded in the building that monitors and records the operation and malfunctions of HVAC, electrical, and plumbing systems.
※3 BIM…Building Information Modeling. A construction system that adds data such as specifications, costs, and usage to 3D CAD models.

Once completed, this system will enable highly accurate statuses for equipment such as "This equipment has a short operating period, so no replacement necessary," or "This equipment is used frequently, so it should be replaced." It will also allow us to retrieve the latest data early in the morning by performing data collection overnight. We expect building owners and management companies will greatly appreciate the ability to easily perform efficient, waste-free maintenance.

The development is being carried out at our Saitama Technology Center, and the current completion rate is over 60%.

The starting point was our desire to create the new building management system "BUP" I mentioned earlier.

Many existing "Central Monitoring Systems" installed in Japanese buildings are cumbersome when extracting data. They are often standalone, with no APIs available, making external access impossible. While some systems allow easier data retrieval, our equipment has evolved uniquely, making such systems difficult to adopt here.

We thought that there would be significant interest in developing a system to automatically acquire and visualize data from the central monitoring system.

To realize this, we considered using RPA tools as the most effective solution. After researching online and through recommendations from other departments, we shortlisted several RPA options. Based on the discussions, we decided to go with KEYENCE's RK.

It was the support. The free, comprehensive support that accompanies RK, which allows us to learn how to use it thoroughly from the basics, and the expectation that it would help improve our employees' technical skills, were key reasons.

For reference, Mr. Sakakibara has been receiving support since November last year, Mr. Aung since March this year, and Mr. Mortez since April, each through separate support programs.

We rate it very highly. KEYENCE's support staff provided four remote sessions for each of our core users, with careful explanations. The instructions were very easy to understand, and we quickly learned the basics of operation. During these remote meetings, they also assign us homework, which we submit and review in subsequent sessions, deepening our understanding.

Additionally, we studied using example videos and e-learning materials on the support site. We believe this approach makes it possible for anyone to master RK.

Yes. Not very frequently, but we do consult when needed. For example, we attached scenario files (RK automation scripts) to emails for direct review and received new ideas. When we saw the revised scripts, the number of steps were reduced from eight to three, which was very helpful. The response speed is also quick, which we appreciate.

We see three main advantages of RK:

Visualized Scenarios

RK scenarios are represented as blocks with color coding, making the logic visually clear. This makes it easy to understand during creation and review.

User-Friendly Scheduling and Repetition Functions

Setting execution schedules and repeating similar tasks are very simple. This is especially suitable for tasks like extracting complex data from the central monitoring system every night, as in our "BUP" project.

Creating Accurate Scenarios Prevents Errors

Data acquisition from the central monitoring system requires detailed configuration of operational information. Manual handling often leads to mistakes. However, with RK, if you create a proper scenario initially, it can perform hundreds of repetitions without errors. Its accuracy is a significant advantage we’ve experienced.

Learning these four core functions, scheduling, looping, conditional branching, and try-catch, will allow you to accomplish almost anything with RK. I recommend starting by mastering these four features.
※4 Try-catch…A function that predefines how to handle exceptional events that occur during scenario execution.

I would recommend RK to companies that operate standalone software disconnected from networks or companies with outdated software. Many companies still rely on outdated software, which often leads to dependence on specific personnel.

Even in these environments, RK can help standardize processes. Instead of continuing to use old software as-is, automation can eliminate manual tasks, reducing hassle and effort. In that sense, RK can be seen as "a connector between old and new systems."

First, our goal is to complete the development of the new building management system "BUP." We aim to have a press release ready in 2025.

Additionally, as a construction company, we are exploring how to utilize RK for CAD-based drawing support. Although AI-powered automatic drawing tools exist, they still lack the ability to produce drawings based on numerical data. Currently, we believe that supporting drawing creation with RK offers more efficient business improvements.

We look forward to continuing to learn from KEYENCE to realize these visions. If there are seminars to deepen RK skills or opportunities to learn from other companies’ case studies, we would love to participate.