Global engineering consultancy Arup and Chinese engineering software company YJK have launched AI Designer in Hong Kong, an integrated digital platform combining artificial intelligence with design optimisation to improve the efficiency, quality and productivity of structural engineering workflows, according to Arup.

Jointly developed by the two firms, the initial AI Designer modules combine Arup's global structural engineering and computational design expertise with YJK's software capabilities in analysis, code-compliant design and drawing production. The first phase covers two core applications: structural design optimisation for reinforced concrete and steel structures, and piled foundation layout and design optimisation.

In controlled benchmarking using the same model, loads and code, and with engineer review retained, AI Designer's algorithmic optimisation reduced design iteration time by approximately 82%, from 2.5 days to 0.5 days, and decreased over-limit components by around 88%, from 64 to 6. Material usage could also be reduced by around 10 to 20% through the platform's optimisation, contributing to lower embodied carbon.

YJK's structural design software Hong Kong Code Edition has been officially recognised by the Hong Kong Buildings Department, while its structural, BIM and construction software suite has been certified under Hong Kong's Construction Innovation and Technology Fund.

Arup managing principal for East Asia Theresa Yeung said: "By combining Arup's deep structural engineering and computational design expertise with YJK's advanced software capabilities, we are empowering engineers with powerful tools that improve workflows, accelerate design exploration and unlock new opportunities for innovation. As projects become increasingly complex, AI Designer will enable us to assess a broader range of solutions more efficiently while maintaining the highest standards of technical excellence."

YJK chairman Chen Dailin said: "By combining YJK's software capabilities with Arup's optimisation algorithms, AI Designer will deliver real impact by enhancing design quality, broadening the application of artificial intelligence in engineering, and supporting the development of a smarter, more efficient and resilient built environment."

The launch underscores Hong Kong's ambitions to accelerate digital technology adoption across the construction sector, with the platform designed to strengthen the city's position as a centre for technology-led innovation in the built environment.