SEI-IL November Dinner Meeting: Structural Inspection Through the Use of Imaging Technology

Presented by:                                                                                                      Marc Parker, P.E., S.E.                                                                                      Project Engineer, Collins Engineers, Inc.

Advancements in technology, computer programs, inspection equipment, and regulation has made the process of structural inspection through the use of imaging equipment a feasible and attractive option when confronted with safety or access confinements. Often times in bridge inspection, conditions exist that put inspectors in hazardous situations. Additionally, many bridge or structure elements requiring inspection can be very difficult to reach or asses using access equipment or procedures such as aerial lifts, snooper trucks, rope access, commercial diving, etc. The use of imaging equipment can provide inspectors with the same level confidence of a visual inspection while reducing or eliminating potential risk of hazardous conditions. 

Mr. Parker specializes in the inspection of roadway and industrial structures. His experiences include underwater imaging using high resolution single beam acoustic equipment, underwater imaging using stationary multibeam acoustic equipment, generation and manipulation of point clouds, and aerial imaging using unmanned aircraft systems. He is a registered licensed remote pilot and commercial SCUBA diver. He has been involved in various research projects exploring the use and outcome of different unmanned aircraft systems, imaging equipment, and post-processing software.