Victoria is losing its war against potholes, but researchers are hoping a new artificial intelligence-powered project can turn the tide.
A roadside-assistance vehicle outfitted with an array of sensors, cameras, and powered by artificial intelligence (AI) has been patrolling Victoria to detect potholes before they take hold.
As part of a partnership between RMIT University and RACV roadside assistance, a van equipped with “AI, GPS tracking, video capture and vehicle movement data” has been patrolling around the Mornington Peninsula for the past two months.
The trial vehicle, which identified 300 ‘defects’ over the past two months, is operated by RACV driver Mark Orlando who said early identification of road deterioration, such as cracking, rutting and emerging potholes makes roads safer.
“As someone who spends every day on Victorian roads, you can often see sections of road deteriorating long before they’re repaired,” Orlando said.
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“Some defects can be difficult for motorists to spot, especially during wet weather, at night or on unfamiliar roads. Anything that helps identify hazardous road conditions sooner can improve safety and reduce vehicle damage.”
The project, funded by the Federal Government’s National Road Action Grant, aims to help move from reactive repairs to predictive and preventative maintenance.
The trial comes amid widespread scrutiny of the condition and maintenance of Victoria’s roads.
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A recent audit by the Victorian Auditor-General’s Office determined state managed road surfaces are getting worse, as maintenance backlogs outstrip the pace of repairs and funding remains inadequate.
As Victoria heads to an election in November, potholes have become a key issue for voters.
Both parties have made commitments to increasing road maintenance funding, with the incumbent government going as far as claiming prisoners would be put to work on maintenance crews.
The trial will continue until January next year, with researchers hoping to deploy the technology to more vehicles across Australia.
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