‘World’s first’ autonomous pothole repair system unveiled
10 January 2024
An autonomous road repair machine that uses artificial intelligence (AI) to detect and repair damaged and potholed road surfaces has been unveiled in the UK.
An impression of the ARRES PREVENT autonomous road repair machine. Image: Robotiz3d
Following successful proof of concept testing, the Autonomous Road Repair System (ARRES), is now being prepared to undertake real-world testing on the roads of Hertfordshire in southern England.
Officially called ARRES PREVENT, the machine is the result of a collaboration between tech company Robotiz3d, academics at the University of Liverpool, and Hertfordshire County Council Highways Engineers.
It will harness a combination of AI and advanced imaging technology to identify and characterise cracks and potholes on road surfaces.
Once detected, it autonomously fills the cracks to prevent surface water ingress and subsequently the formation of potholes.
Funding for the project has been predominantly provided by Innovate UK, with additional support from various investors throughout different stages of the technology’s development.
Real-world testing
In its pilot phase, ARRES underwent testing within a controlled lab environment, but the next phase will see the unit undertaking live repairs on a residential street.
Hertfordshire County Council’s Phil Bibby said, “We’re thrilled to be at the coalface of this exciting new technology, working with world-class tech inventors and engineers. We’ve long been leading the way in cracking the pothole issue and in recent times have been trialling new and improved ways to fill potholes.”
A short video of ARRES PREVENT in action can be viewed here.
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