Drones and 3D mapping software are being tested by Transport for NSW to assess bridges and determine their need for maintenance.
The organisation said in a LinkedIn post that the drones were safer and less disruptive than previous inspection techniques, and could be used to “reach challenging places.”
The Sydney Harbour Bridge is one of the bridges around our state where we have been successfully testing this technology, according to TfNSW.
Over a three-week period, trials were also conducted at Gladesville Bridge “and at other bridges in regional NSW.”
The technology will “ensure bridges across the NSW road network are maintained to the greatest level today and into the future,” according to Natalie Ward, minister for metropolitan roads.
“When it comes to this technology, the sky’s the limit,” “According to Ward’s statement.
“Our preventative maintenance inspections, which would typically take months to complete, can now be completed in less than half the time, which is a game-changer.
Despite being referred to as a trial, it is still unknown whether the technology has advanced to the point of being used in production or how frequently flights would need to take place for each asset managed.
The state’s 2021–2024 transportation technology roadmap includes drone deployment.