Development of advanced robot system for bridge inspection and monitoring

Abstract

<p>Conventional bridge inspection involves the physical positioning of an inspector by the hydraulic telescoping boom of a “snooper truck” thereby providing visual access to bridge components. The process is time consuming, hazardous, and may be affected by lighting conditions. Therefore, it is of great interest that an automated and/or teleoperated inspection robot be developed to replace the manual inspection procedure. This paper describes the advanced bridge inspection robot system under development and other related activities currently undergoing at the Bridge Inspection Robot Development Interface. Its primary goal is to develop advanced robot systems for bridge inspection and monitoring for immediate field application and commercialization. This research project will contribute to advancement of infrastructure maintenance technology, enhancement of construction industry competitiveness, and promotion of national capacity for technology innovation.</p>