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.

On behalf of the selection committee for the Innovation Idea Award, congratulations to all our 2017 Winners!

It was our pleasure to see so many outstanding nomination from local highway jurisdictions around the state. The nominations we received illustrated how hard the transportation community is continuously striving to develop both time and cost saving efficiencies. (more…)