Ir Prof. Wallace Wai Lok LAI, Associate Head (Teaching) and Professor of the Department of Land Surveying and Geospatial Science (LSGS), was recently featured on TVB’s programme News Magazine.
During the interview, Prof. LAI showcased the innovative pipeline robots developed by PolyU to tackle Hong Kong's chronic underground utility challenges. Functioning similarly to a medical endoscope for the city's hidden infrastructure, these compact robots are engineered specifically to navigate live, high-pressure water mains. They gather real-time diagnostic data without disrupting daily water supply services.
Equipped with high-definition cameras, acoustic sensors, and smart positioning technology, the robotic system detects minute leaks and structural weaknesses early on. This intelligence enables predictive maintenance, effectively preventing sudden pipe bursts and subsequent road subsidence before they manifest as severe infrastructure failures.
Developed through collaborative efforts via the Pipeline Robots Joint Laboratory—established alongside the Water Supplies Department (WSD) and industry partners—this technology highlights how the Department of Land Surveying and Geospatial Science (LSGS) translates advanced geophysical and geospatial science into practical smart-city solutions for Hong Kong.
Online coverage:
TVB - https://polyu.me/4yJxnKW (16:40 - 18:16)
