Bridge inspection with aerial robots and computer vision: A Japanese national initiative

Jacob J. Lin, Amir Ibrahim, Shubham Sarwade, Mani Golparvar-Fard, Yasushi Nitta, Hirokuni Moirkawa, Yoshihiko Fukuchi

Research output: Chapter in Book/Report/Conference proceedingConference contribution

Abstract

Fast and accurate inspection of elevated structures is imperative for sustaining the increasing traffic flow o n deteriorating bridges. Despsite their importance, today's inspection processes still require dedicated equipment, impact traffic flow, a nd e xpose i nspection p ersonnel t o s afety concerns. The advent of Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) and the ability to position a camera close to elevated highway structures presents an opportunity to perform inspections quickly, safely and effectively. Towards this goal, we present an end-to-end system for robotic bridge inspection. Our system is structured around integrated methods to (a) create UAV flight m issions; ( b) e valuate a ccuracy a nd completeness of data collection plans; (c) generate 3D models of the structures of interest; (d) detect surface distresses in 3D; and (e) generate inspection reports in compliance with the requirements of highway agencies. We present results on validating each algorithm and the system as a whole. We also share lessons learned from an owner's perspective on deploying this system for bridge inspection in Japan particularly around procedures for documenting, communicating, and following up on bridge inspectors' recommendations.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Title of host publicationProceedings of the 37th International Symposium on Automation and Robotics in Construction, ISARC 2020
Subtitle of host publicationFrom Demonstration to Practical Use - To New Stage of Construction Robot
PublisherInternational Association on Automation and Robotics in Construction (IAARC)
Pages1598-1605
Number of pages8
ISBN (Electronic)9789529436347
StatePublished - 2020
Event37th International Symposium on Automation and Robotics in Construction: From Demonstration to Practical Use - To New Stage of Construction Robot, ISARC 2020 - Kitakyushu, Online, Japan
Duration: Oct 27 2020Oct 28 2020

Publication series

NameProceedings of the 37th International Symposium on Automation and Robotics in Construction, ISARC 2020: From Demonstration to Practical Use - To New Stage of Construction Robot

Conference

Conference37th International Symposium on Automation and Robotics in Construction: From Demonstration to Practical Use - To New Stage of Construction Robot, ISARC 2020
Country/TerritoryJapan
CityKitakyushu, Online
Period10/27/2010/28/20

Keywords

  • Aerial robots
  • Bridge inspection
  • Computer vision
  • Deep learning
  • Structure from motion

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Artificial Intelligence
  • Civil and Structural Engineering
  • Human-Computer Interaction
  • Geotechnical Engineering and Engineering Geology

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