Classification of different size of potholes based on surface area using convolutional neural network

• Published in: Discover applied sciences 2024-09, Vol.6 (9), p.492, Article 492
• Main Authors: Ahmad, Chauhdary Fazeel, Al-Sayegh, Ammar T., Cheema, Abdullah, Qayyum, Waqas, Ehtisham, Rana, Saghir, Saba, Ahmad, Afaq
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Accuracy; Artificial neural networks; Asphalt pavements; Classification; Cracks; Damage assessment; Damage detection; Datasets; Deep learning; Feet; Image enhancement; Literature reviews; Neural networks; Pavements; Repair & maintenance; Researchers; Road maintenance; Roads & highways; Traffic accidents & safety; Traffic safety
• ISSN: 3004-9261; 2523-3963; 3004-9261; 2523-3971
• DOI: 10.1007/s42452-024-06207-3

Potholes are a significant hazard, causing severe damage to vehicles and potentially leading to fatal accidents. The automatic detection of potholes is crucial for timely maintenance and reducing these risks. This research evaluates the performance of three pre-trained Convolutional Neural Network models—ResNet 50, ResNet 18, and MobileNet—in classifying pavement images. Initially, the models distinguish between images containing potholes and those without (Potholes vs. Normal). Subsequently, they categorize pavement images into three classes: Small Pothole, Large Pothole, and Normal. Pavement images were captured from two different heights: 3.5 feet (waist height) and 2 feet. Among the models, MobileNet v2 demonstrated the highest accuracy of 98% for detecting potholes. For images taken at 2 feet, the classification accuracies for large potholes, small potholes, and normal pavement were 87.33%, 88.67%, and 92%, respectively. For images taken from waist height, the accuracies increased to 98.67%, 98.67%, and 100%, respectively. The study highlights the potential of these models in enhancing road safety through reliable and automated pothole detection, providing valuable insights for infrastructure maintenance.Article HighlightsPotholes are dangerous and can cause serious vehicle damage.Train CNN models for the classification of potholesThese CNNs, for different sizes of potholes can be used for the rehabilitation of potholes.Among all CNN modes, MobileNet v2 achieves 98% accuracy in detecting the presence of a pothole.