IBM is combining Internet of Things (IoT) technology with artificial intelligence (AI) to help monitor the structural health of public infrastructure such as bridges, tunnels, dams, roads and railways.
The company’s new AI-powered asset management solution, IBM Maximo for Civil Infrastructure, is designed to identify and measure the impact of damage such as cracks, rust and corrosion, as well as displacement vibrations and stress. This can help extend the lifespan of assets by optimising maintenance and providing early warnings of deterioration and damage.
The new technology solution draws on a wide range of data sources including maintenance and design details, near real-time IoT data generated from sensors placed on structures, wearables worn by workers, stationary cameras and drones, and weather data.
Together with predictive and prescriptive maintenance strategies using IBM Maximo Asset Performance Management, and AI visual recognition tools developed by IBM Research, organisations can model, map and monitor each structure. They can then perform rapid assessment to prioritise maintenance decisions that target critical repairs, and address compliance issues in order to meet regulatory obligations, IBM said.
“Major infrastructure managers around the world struggle with ageing structures and systems,” explained IBM’s Stephen Russo and Bruce D. Baron in a blog post. “The cost of constant physical inspections and continued maintenance continues to increase. They need to be able to improve how they manage their current infrastructure. They also need to make needed repairs and replacements quickly – in a more efficient and strategic manner.”
IBM is working with Sund & Bælt to help develop the new solution. The Danish infrastructure operator will deploy IBM Maximo for Civil Infrastructure in the new 18 km Femern Belt Fixed Link between Denmark and Germany, the world’s longest immersed tunnel.
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Tags: Internet of Things, IoT, AI, Artificial Intelligence
