Innovating Road Infrastructure Maintenance with Autonomous Robotic Solutions: InfraRob Project

InfraRob, a groundbreaking research initiative funded by the European Commission under Horizon 2020, aims to revolutionize road infrastructure maintenance through autonomous robotic systems and modularization. The project focuses on enhancing integrity, performance, and safety of road networks using innovative technologies.

One critical aspect of road maintenance is the timely repair of small potholes, which, if left unchecked, can lead to significant deterioration and increased maintenance costs. By promptly patching these potholes, the project aims to prevent water ingress into the subgrade, thus mitigating further damage.

Developing an Autonomous Pothole Repair System

A pivotal task within InfraRob is Task 3.1, dedicated to developing a specialized 3D printer capable of extruding an asphalt mixture tailored for sealing small potholes. This advanced printer is designed to integrate seamlessly into an existing small autonomous carrier, creating an autonomous pothole repair system. The primary objective of this system is to minimize workers' exposure to live traffic and heavy machinery, thereby enhancing overall road user safety.

Integration Process: Phase IV

The integration of the 3D printer into the autonomous carrier marked the culmination of several meticulous phases:

1. Defining Carrier Constraints: Understanding the operational limitations imposed by the autonomous carrier.

2. Optimizing Printer and Mixture Parameters: Determining the ideal parameters for the 3D printer and the asphalt mixture to ensure effective pothole repair.

3. 3D Printer Design and Construction: Developing and refining the 3D printer to meet project specifications.

4. System Integration: Successfully integrating the 3D printer with the autonomous carrier to form a cohesive autonomous repair system.

This document primarily focuses on Phase IV of the integration process. While Phases I to III progressed concurrently, each phase played a crucial role in laying the groundwork for the seamless integration of the 3D printer into the autonomous carrier.

To read the report about task 3.1: click here

Throughout the project, numerous scientific papers and dissemination materials have been produced, providing valuable insights and advancements in autonomous road maintenance technologies. A comprehensive summary of these contributions is included in the appendix for further reference.

InfraRob represents a significant step forward in leveraging autonomous robotics to maintain road infrastructure integrity and enhance operational efficiency. By addressing critical maintenance tasks such as pothole repair autonomously, the project not only reduces costs but also prolongs the service life of pavements, benefiting communities and road users across Europe and beyond.