Robot Inspects Damaged Bridge

Abstract

This article describes the use of a waterborne robot for conducting bridge inspections in conditions that would be unsafe for human divers. The robot is part of a floating platform and is fitted with acoustic sensors that can capture images above and below the water's surface. For structures that are in deeper waters, miniature submarine vehicles tied to the main craft are used for generating sonar images of the structure. The article describes how the robot was used to inspect the Rollover Pass Bridge in Texas, which was damaged in September 2008 by Hurricane Ike. Because of tides, strong currents, and turbidity, human divers had been able to conduct only brief inspections of the bridge. The robot was used to provide a 2-day inspection of the bridge, providing evidence of bridge scour and debris.