Rapid, Safe Inspection of Water-spanning Infrastructure via Amphibious Unmanned Aerial Vehicle
As transportation infrastructure ages and is subjected to serious weather events, the improper, incomplete, or infrequent inspection of structures represents a serious threat to public safety both nationally and within the State of Louisiana. Besides the potential for serious injury, the repair costs associated with late discovery of problems can represent a substantial unplanned expense for transportation departments. This is especially true of critical but hard-to-reach areas such as the undersides of water-spanning structures as are common within the State. Thus, there is a pressing need for a technology that allows for rapid, safe, and thorough inspection of water-spanning infrastructure in a cost-effective manner. The primary objective of this research was to design, develop, deploy, and evaluate an amphibious unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) system capable of shooting high-definition video and pictures from multiple viewpoints as part of infrastructure inspection activities for water-spanning infrastructure. A prototype was designed using sound engineering practices and its mechanical suitability simulated using 3D finite element analysis. Additive manufacturing in the form of 3D printing was utilized to create lightweight plastic body panels of complex, custom geometry. Upon final assembly, the prototype UAV passed basic functionality benchtop tests. However, the prototype was critically damaged during exterior flight testing and resulting issues could not be resolved by project’s end.
- Record URL:
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Corporate Authors:
Louisiana Tech University, Ruston
Mechanical Engineering Department
Ruston, LA United StatesLouisiana Transportation Research Center
Baton Rouge, LA United States Baton Rouge, LA United States -
Authors:
- Moore, Arden
- Publication Date: 2018-7
Language
- English
Media Info
- Media Type: Digital/other
- Edition: Final Report
- Features: Figures; Photos; References;
- Pagination: 17p
Subject/Index Terms
- TRT Terms: Causeways; Finite element method; Inspection; Unmanned underwater vehicles; Video
- Subject Areas: Bridges and other structures; Highways; Maintenance and Preservation; Vehicles and Equipment;
Filing Info
- Accession Number: 01835751
- Record Type: Publication
- Report/Paper Numbers: LTRC Project No. 18-3TIRE
- Files: TRIS, ATRI, STATEDOT
- Created Date: Feb 10 2022 9:07AM