Road infrastructure

Multisensor systems for condition monitoring of road surfaces and road environments

Fraunhofer IPM develops optical measuring systems to measure the road environment and the road surface. High-resolution laser scanners combined with fast image processing provide measurement data on longitudinal and transverse evenness and crack density of the road surface. Based on this data, maintenance work can be planned specifically. Measurement data on the road environment, converted into 3D or 2.5D models, are used to model cities and their traffic flows or to plan infrastructure expansion. In many cases, Fraunhofer IPM offers software for automated data evaluation in addition to measurement technology.

Our systems record measurement data down to the submillimeter range at driving speeds of 80 kilometers per hour and more - precisely and reliably. Fraunhofer IPM measuring systems for road condition monitoring are in operation worldwide.

 

Longitudinal / Transverse Evenness

 

We provide the technology for a detailed three-dimensional height profile.

 

Structural Features

 

 

By using laser-based measurements, we can record the surface structure of roads at speeds of up to 80 km/h in high resolution. In the process, our laser systems generate images - without the use of cameras. 

 

 

Road Environment

 

 

3D and image data enable construction planning from the desk. No site visits are required.

 

Tunnel Condition Monitoring

 

The multidimensional inspection system CPS-Plus determines the geometry and surface structure of tunnels and also possible water leaks.

Further information

 

Press release / 3.6.2025

Sensor box provides real-time geodata for digital urban planning

A mobile sensor box developed at Fraunhofer IPM collects highly accurate 3D geodata. Mounted on buses, taxis, or garbage trucks, the box allows the urban environment to be recorded at frequent intervals without the need for special measurement vehicles. The data serve as a basis for digital urban twins.

 



 

Press release / 16.12.2024

Increasing safety on transportation routes through efficient tree vitality monitoring

 

In the TreeVitaScan project, researchers from Fraunhofer IPM and the University of Freiburg are testing a comprehensive data model that combines multispectral laser scanning with AI-supported data evaluation. This should make it possible to determine the vitality of individual trees automatically, reliably and across a wide area.

 

Press release / 10.6.2024

New software and hardware for survey vehicles

Geotechnik GmbH, a surveying service provider, is using a mobile mapping vehicle with a completely revised software. The vehicle is equipped with a laser scanner and high-resolution cameras and delivers 3D planning data for municipal infrastructure planning.

 

Press release / 10.6.2024

AI-optimized bridge planning and maintenance

As part of the Pic2Bridge research project, Fraunhofer IPM is working with the Institute of Concrete Structures at TU Dresden and fokus GmbH Leipzig to optimize the bridge planning and maintenance process. This is to be achieved with the help of an automated AI process that can create a 3D bridge model from just a few photos. The project work starts on November 12, 2024 with a virtual kick-off event.

Safe & reliable

Our laser scanners are eye-safe and designed for application in public spaces!

 

 

Networks

Fraunhofer IPM is member of the Fraunhofer Traffic & Transport Alliance.