M. Katherine Banks
Papers
8
Total Citations
132
H-Index
5
About
Dr. M. Katherine Banks is a leading researcher in the field of robotic systems for critical infrastructure, with a primary focus on in-pipe robotics for water distribution systems. Her work addresses the pressing challenges of pipeline condition assessment, leak detection, and water quality monitoring. Dr. Banks has made significant contributions through the development of the "SmartCrawler," a size-adaptable wireless robotic system capable of navigating pipes ranging from 9 to 22 inches in diameter. Her research integrates advanced localization techniques, including particle filter-based navigation, and multi-phase motion control algorithms to enable long-distance inspection missions. Her most cited work, a comprehensive review on in-pipe robot localization, mapping, and navigation methods (70 citations), has become a foundational resource in the field. Dr. Banks has also pioneered the design of battery-powered, sensor-based inline robots for real-time water quality monitoring, directly addressing the need for continuous, autonomous inspection of underground water networks. With a growing body of work that has accumulated over 130 citations, her research is instrumental in transforming how utilities manage and protect water infrastructure, ensuring safer and more reliable water delivery systems.
Research Focus
Key Achievements
Top Papers
- 1
- 2Localization Techniques for In-pipe Robots in Water Distribution Systems18 citations · 2020
- 3Development of an Inline Robot for Water Quality Monitoring16 citations · 2020
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