Tianjin University launched an intelligent tunnel monitoring robot at the World Intelligence Congress on May 21.

Using blockchain technology, the robot can realize the intelligent monitoring and maintenance of tunnels over their whole life cycle, thus ensuring the orderly and efficient operation of tunnel traffic.

Regular and qualified tunnel monitoring is an indispensable means of keeping facilities in good working order and preventing security hazards such as fires, cracked concrete linings and collapsing roofs.

Compared to traditional manual inspections, tunnel monitoring robots can not only work in high-risk areas with higher efficiency and frequency, but also boast greater mobility and control flexibility.

The newly-released smart tunnel monitoring robot developed by Tianjin University's Research Center of Large-span Spatial Structures possesses a smart 'brain' that comprises an executive system, a communication system, a control system and an operation and maintenance system.

Equipped with a high-definition infrared camera and multiple sensors, the robot uses laser scanning, image recognition and other advanced technologies to analyze and process real-time collected signals, and realize the comprehensive and all-weather monitoring of tunnels' structural health, internal environment, working facilities and traffic operations.

Above all, the innovative application of blockchain technology enhances information transparency and efficient sharing, and addresses data security and network bottlenecks as well. The research center has been granted relevant international patents and software copyrights for this innovation.

The robot is currently being tested in Lianhualing Tunnel in Tianjin. "The test results show that the robot is able to obtain long-term, real-time and comprehensive tunnel traffic information, diagnose damage, assess possible risks, and even help rescue operations. It is very promising in terms of tunnel maintenance and management," said Professor Xu Jie from the research center.