2017 Agency Winner
Ada County Highway District: Remote Vehicle Camera Inspections

• Problem: ACHD Bridge Inspectors cannot access all culverts for condition evaluation, some have less than ideal conditions. Cost to have contracted camera inspection is expensive, and cannot work in all situations. 
• Solution: Use of a floating camera rig for underneath structures with flowing water, and a motorized truck that can self propel over dry ground, obstacles, slow water, ice or even combinations of these. Two smaller trucks that can travel through pipes as small as 8-inch diameter.  
  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PVhpH_RUCXk
• Labor, Equipment, Materials: Usually two individuals operate the system which consists of a tethered remote vehicle fitted with GoPro cameras and led lights, a wifi repeater, and an iPad for live video feed. Remotes vehicles are off the shelf units heavily modified  
• Expenses: Custom home made float-rig, approx $350, Large modified RC trucks $1500 ea. Small RC truck $500. Mini truck $200. iPad $500. Misc supplies & accessories $500.
• Savings: Saving of $200-$300 per use ($18,750 yr for structures, pipe inspection based on frequency used). Finding deficiencies and replacing before failure – priceless.