WLWT-5 highlights a research partnership between the University of Cincinnati, Honda Motor Co., and the Ohio Department of Transportation that could revolutionize the way we solve potholes and other road problems.
Munir Nazar, a professor at the University of California College of Engineering and Applied Sciences, led a pilot project to demonstrate how vehicles can use dashboard cameras and sensors to track and report problems such as damaged guardrails, holes, faded or missing lane markings, and other defects.
Honda recently announced the results of a pilot project that shows how its proactive road maintenance system works in real-world conditions in Ohio.
The research team, in collaboration with Parsons and i-Probe Inc., tested more than 3,000 miles of roads in Ohio, providing valuable sensor data about road irregularities and maintenance needs. Honda said the system has demonstrated 99% accuracy in detecting damaged or obstructed signs. Detects damaged guardrails with 93% accuracy and identifies potholes, including severity and location, with 89% accuracy.
“This vehicle will be a means by which we can monitor and evaluate our infrastructure to basically make our roads safer,” Nazar told WLWT-5.
Su Bai, chief engineer at American Honda Motor Company, told WLWT-5 that the project could help ODOT change its priorities.
“In the future, drivers will also be part of the detection process, allowing ODOT to focus on fixing problems instead of detecting them,” Bai said.
Check out the WLWT5 report.
Featured image at top: WLWT-5 reporter Thomas Aaron speaks with University of California professor Munir Nazar about a test vehicle used in a pilot program that could revolutionize the way we monitor potholes and other defects. Photo/Michael Miller
