Semi-autonomous underwater inspection system for infrastructure data acquisition (TAUWIS)

Development of a semi-autonomous underwater inspection system using a combination of sensors to monitor the condition of pipes laid in bodies of water.

Diagram with pictures of the individual competences, which are brought together

Combining expertise to develop a semi-autonomous underwater inspection system

The objective of the project is to develop and evaluate an underwater system capable of monitoring the condition and location of linear and point infrastructure components.

The renovation and modernisation of water supply systems, based on an assessment of the condition of the network, is of central importance for the economic operation of drinking water supplies. It is therefore crucial to have access to the most accurate and up-to-date information possible regarding the condition of the systems. This also encompasses pipes that have been positioned within bodies of water, such as culverts within rivers or pipes used for the extraction of raw water. The lack of suitable conventional techniques for use in aquatic environments renders investigations impractical. In such instances, inspections must be conducted with great effort, for example, through the deployment of divers.

In collaboration with the Fraunhofer IOSB-AST and the company EMPIT, an underwater inspection system is being developed and tested at water suppliers. The system is to be equipped with a variety of sensors. This includes sonar and optical sensors, as well as a CMI sensor for use in aquatic environments, developed by EMPIT, to identify the condition of metallic materials. Fraunhofer is responsible for the provision of the carrier platform and the semi-autonomous control system.

The TZW bears responsibility for the coordination, planning, and organisation of practical tests at water suppliers, in addition to the evaluation of optical data and the evaluation of the process for asset management.

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