UAV-Visual Inspection

Abstract

Bridges, essential for economic and social development, face significant deterioration due to aging and environmental factors. Consequently, assessing the condition of reinforced concrete bridges is essential to anticipate their future performance and optimize maintenance, rehabilitation, and replacement needs. While traditional visual inspections are widely used, the integration of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) presents a more efficient approach, particularly in inaccessible areas. This article presents a comprehensive evaluation of the condition of a bridge over a decade through a case study in Ecuador. The assessment revealed significant deterioration in several structural elements, especially the substructure and road elements. These findings underscore the urgent need to improve maintenance practices and integrate advanced inspection techniques to ensure the safety and longevity of bridges in Ecuador.