Overview
An autonomous NDE mobility system is developed to automate non-destructive evaluation (NDE) of infrastructure. The system integrates an outdoor mobility platform capable of stable navigation and supporting various NDE sensors, together with a high-payload manipulator and an electric lift for inspection of elevated and hard-to-access areas. This enables the transition from conventional labor-intensive inspection to autonomous mobility-based inspection, providing a foundation for safer and more efficient infrastructure maintenance.
Key contribution
▸ High-Payload, Large-Reach Manipulator: Integration of a manipulator with high payload capacity and an extended workspace, enabling efficient access to diverse inspection locations and operation of heavy NDE sensors
▸ Electric Lift-Based Elevated Inspection System: Integration of an electric lift for vertical mobility, enabling autonomous inspection of elevated and hard-to-reach areas beyond human accessibility
▸ Outdoor High-Payload Autonomous Mobility Platform: Development of an outdoor mobile platform capable of stably carrying various high-payload NDE sensors while ensuring reliable navigation in outdoor environments
Impact
▸ Automation of Non-Destructive Evaluation: Transition from conventional labor-intensive inspection to autonomous inspection, improving the efficiency of infrastructure maintenance
▸ Enhanced Safety and Accessibility : Reliable inspection in hazardous environments and locations that are difficult for human inspectors to access.
▸ Foundation for Smart Infrastructure Maintenance: Establishment of an autonomous inspection platform for next-generation unmanned infrastructure inspection and maintenance systems