Aging tunnels are becoming a growing concern, but there aren’t enough experts to inspect and maintain them.
To solve this problem, researchers in South Korea have developed a smart AI system that works with drones to check tunnels for damage.
This new technology, created by the Korea Institute of Civil Engineering and Building Technology (KICT), could make tunnel inspections safer and more efficient.
The challenge: Not enough data for AI
AI models usually need a lot of data to learn and make accurate predictions.
However, when it comes to tunnel maintenance, collecting enough images of damaged concrete—such as cracks or exposed rebar—is difficult. These issues don’t appear often, making it hard to train AI systems.
To overcome this, the research team, led by Dr. Shim Seungbo, developed “Generative AI-Based Inspection Technology.”
Instead of relying on a huge database of real images, this AI can create realistic images of tunnel damage using just a few real-life examples. It can generate up to 10,000 images in a single day, helping the AI learn quickly and effectively.
Drones for safer inspections
This AI-powered system has been tested successfully with autonomous drones inside real tunnels.
Currently, human inspectors check tunnel ceilings using special work vehicles, which can be dangerous and unreliable.
The new drones, developed with LASTMILE Co., Ltd., can fly inside tunnels with precision, using a long-range indoor positioning sensor. They navigate with a 20cm margin of error, making them highly accurate.
These drones can reach areas that are difficult or unsafe for humans to access. By replacing manual inspections with AI-powered drones, tunnel maintenance will become faster, safer, and less expensive.
A game-changer for construction
Dr. Shim explained that this breakthrough challenges the idea that AI always needs huge amounts of data to work. Instead, this system creates data when needed, opening up new possibilities for AI in construction and infrastructure.
This technology could be a game-changer, not just for tunnels but for many other areas of construction and safety inspections. By using AI-powered drones, cities can keep their underground highways in better shape while reducing risks for human workers.
