Ground Robotic Systems for the Inspection of Concrete Bridges

Abstract

This paper focuses on reviewing relevant work on autonomous ground systems for concrete bridge inspection. The current inspection of bridges is still based on visual inspection by inspectors or by using semi-destructive techniques. Current inspection practices require a large amount of time for inspection. In addition, complex scaffolding or expensive equipment is required for inaccessible areas, which also poses a risk to the safety of inspectors. These drawbacks could be overcome by using robotic systems equipped with non-destructive techniques (NDT). This paper presents the ground robotic systems that have been used in the inspection of concrete bridges, mainly for the localization of reinforcement, corrosion assessment and crack detection.