Tianjin University launched an intelligence-Smart Monitoring Robot of Tunnel at the World Intelligence Congress on May 21. Based on the blockchain technology, the robot can realize intelligent monitoring and maintenance of tunnels for the whole life cycle, and thus ensure the orderly and efficient operation of tunnel traffic.

At present, China ranks the first in the world in terms of total tunnel mileage. As tunnel traffic brings great convenience to people, safety concerns in terms of tunnel construction and maintenance also attract wide attention. Fire hazards, poor lighting and water accumulation on the road surface within the tunnel may cause traffic accidents or even casualties, let alone the structure damages like cracked concrete lining or falling tops. Regular and qualified tunnel monitoring is indispensable to cope with these problems. Compared to traditional manual inspection, tunnel monitoring robots can not only work in high-risk areas with higher efficiency and frequency, but also boast great mobility and control flexibility.

The newly released intelligence-Smart Monitoring Robot of Tunnel developed by Tianjin University’s Research Center of Large-span Spatial Structure possesses a smart ‘brain’ that comprises an executive system, a communication system, a control system and an operation and maintenance system.

Equipped with a high-definition infrared camera and multiple types of sensors, the robot uses laser scanning, image recognition and other advanced technologies to analyze and process real-time collected signals, and realize comprehensive and all-weather monitoring of tunnel structural health, internal environment, working facilities and traffic operation.

Above all, the innovative application of the blockchain technology enhances information transparency and efficient sharing, and addresses data security and network bottlenecks as well. The research center has been granted relevant international patents and software copyrights for this innovation.

The robot is currently under test in Lianhualing Tunnel in Tianjin. “The test results show that the robot is able to obtain long-term, real-time and comprehensive tunnel traffic information, diagnose damages, assess possible risks, and even help accident rescue. It is very promising for tunnel maintenance and management,” said Prof. Xu Jie from the research center.

By Eva Yin