FHWA deploys bridge-inspecting robots

FHWA_logoThe U.S. Department of Transportation’s Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) is deploying a robot to help inspect the safety and structure of concrete bridge decks.

The robotic tool, created in partnership with Rutgers University as part of the Long-Term Bridge Performance (LTBP) Program, is expected to save time and money during inspections. The robot uses imaging technologies similar to x-ray technlogies to scan the infrastructure and see the interior without damaging the deck.

FHWA is launching to technology on 24 bridges in Virginia, Maryland, Delaware, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, West Virginia and Washington, D.C. The agency plans to implement the robot on up to 1,000 bridges in the U.S. within the next five years.