A new artificial intelligence (AI) scanner could help find potholes before they become a big problem.
Hertfordshire County Council is testing Robotiz3d’s ARRES Eye, a scanner that can be attached to council vehicles. It collects road data while workers go about their daily tasks.
The scanner checks the road surface for potholes, cracks, and weak spots. It sends real-time information about the size, location, and severity of defects to a remote screen. This helps engineers plan road repairs more efficiently.
The council has worked closely with scientists from Robotiz3d to improve the technology. After initial short-route tests last year, the scanner is now being tested for a longer period.
The AI scanner uses lasers to track small road changes over several months, especially during cold and wet weather. This helps spot early signs of damage so potholes can be repaired before they form.
Councillor Phil Bibby said that while fixing potholes is always a challenge, this new technology could help detect problems early. The council also plans to increase its road maintenance budget by £6 million next year.
Source: bbc
