Bridge inspections are normally conducted visually (e.g., naked eye) in conjunction with instrumentation. These techniques are limited in scope in that certain areas of the structure are inaccessible, place workers at risk when attempting to reach these hard to access areas, and may require bridges to be shut down during inspections causing commuter delays. Recently UAV have seen increased commercial applications in bridge inspections as they can access hard to reach locations, be fitted with a wide range of sensors, be remote controlled eliminating hazards to workers, can decrease inspection costs, and do not require bridge closures. The majority of commercially available UAV bridge inspection systems use cameras, LiDAR, and thermal sensors, focused on material surface defect identification. 

Investigators have developed an improved UAV utilizing MRI, CT, and/or US devices used in conjunction with GPS with the ability to identify/visualize not only surface defects, but internal concrete failure mechanisms (e.g., corrosion, cyclic loading, pitting, faults/cracks) as well. Acquired data can be used to print a 3D model of the bridge to visualize/monitor its condition to aid engineers in assessing its performance over its service life.

Competitive Advantages

• Use of UAV for bridge inspections has many advantages as compared to visual techniques
• MRI, CT, US sensors have been proven within the medical field though no commercial applications of these devices are in use within the bridge inspection market
• MRI, CT, and US can accurately identify/quantify internal defects

Opportunity

The global bridge inspection sector was valued at $51 million in 2022 and is expected to reach $68 million in 2032.  The UAV market is expected to grow from $26.2 billion in 2022 and is expected to reach $38.3 billion by 2027.

Rowan University is looking for a partner for further development and commercialization of this technology through a license. The inventor is available to collaborate with interested companies.