Innovation in bridge inspection - AI Enhanced Bridge Condition Data

Inspections of bridges are undertaken in accordance with DMRB Standard CS450 and still rely very heavily on manual/labour intensive techniques (i.e. tapping hammers) and subjective decisions on site by inspectors. In addition, they often require suitable means of access for inspectors (i.e. MEWPs, traffic management, etc.) which adds further health and safety implications. This process is followed by most UK/international asset owners.

The Arcadis / Niricson partnership is aiming to revolutionise how asset data is collected and used by utilising cutting-edge drone technology, data fusion and Artificial Intelligence (AI) to undertake structural inspections. This innovative inspection solution is a way of accurately quantifying surface defects in bridge assets. It involves the use of drones enhanced with an acoustic probe (in essence a tapping hammer) that can reach structures within touching distance and collects detailed data.

This data then passes through an AI algorithm which accurately identifies and classifies defects. This information is then presented on visual imagery showing defects (such as cracking, spalling, delamination) as well as positional information (such as length, width, depth, etc.). The presentation will focus on the technology, our approach to inspections and the potential future applications.

This won the NCE Bridge Award in 2024 for Innovation in Bridge Inspection.

Speakers:

Javier Aparicio has a strong background in geospatial technologies, deep learning methodologies, and artificial intelligence, helping clients access high-quality data to make informed decisions. He specializes in leveraging AI and deep learning to generate precise defect maps for both surface and subsurface structural assessments, providing valuable insights for users seeking advanced digital condition assessment solutions.

Harsh Rathod is the CEO and co-founder of Niricson, a technology company transforming infrastructure inspection through AI, predictive analytics, and robot-based data collection. With a PhD in civil and structural engineering, Harsh combines deep technical expertise with a passion for innovation, helping asset owners detect deficiencies early and make data-driven maintenance decisions. Under his leadership, Niricson has gained recognition for revolutionizing how dams, bridges, and other critical infrastructure are managed. Niricson currently operates in 7 major countries, monitoring some of the most critical infrastructure assets. Harsh also holds a Master’s in Structural and Earthquake Engineering and he has been featured in Forbes for his leadership in advancing smart infrastructure solutions.

Tarv Gohel is the Head of Civils Asset Management for Arcadis UK&I. He specialises in the management of the entire lifecycle of civil engineering infrastructure assets, such as bridges, from their operation, maintenance and repair to their eventual replacement – with the goal of optimizing performance, minimizing costs, and ensuring safe and reliable service throughout their lifespan. He is currently leading on innovative ways to carry out asset management, and leads Arcadis’ Bridge Health solution capabilities.