TXT Group CAPRI Project | Innovation & Research

The CAPRI project aims to revolutionize bridge inspections by using automated drone formations in GNSS denied areas, enabled by cooperative localization and supported by AI. The proposed approach reduces inspection time and costs while eliminating risks to human inspectors and minimizing environmental impact.
By enabling reliable, frequent, and detailed assessments of bridge structures—including hard-to-reach areas like beneath bridges—CAPRI enhances infrastructure safety and maintenance planning.

Co-funded by the European Space Agency, CAPRI is a two-year initiative developing a fleet of automated drones designed to inspect bridges efficiently and safely, even in areas where GPS signals are weak or unavailable.
The project combines cutting-edge drone navigation, AI-powered defect detection, and automated fleet management to offer cost-effective, scalable inspection solutions.
The consortium includes TXT e-tech as prime contractor alongside MAVTech, Fondazione LINKS, Inspectiondrone, and Comune di Torino. Comune di Torino supports the project by providing pilot sites, regulatory guidance, and practical validation.

The main innovation of the project lies in enabling precise and cost-effective bridge inspections by flying automated drone formations beneath the bridge using a hybrid GNSS-UWB and cooperative localization system.
This advanced technology allows drones to navigate stably and close to critical structural elements, ensuring optimal viewpoints for thorough inspection.
Moreover, this localization solution is highly adaptable and can be easily applied to different types of bridges, making it a versatile tool for infrastructure monitoring.

The project will feature the following innovations:

Reduced inspection durations and costs.
Easily applicable to different types of bridges.
Not required skilled UAV operators.
Mission planner that calculates UAVs’ trajectories and enables automated fleet management.
State of the art AI-based modules, which process video data to detect bridge’s defects.

The project will feature the following innovations:

Reduced inspection durations and costs.
Easily applicable to different types of bridges.
Not required skilled UAV operators.
Mission planner that calculates UAVs’ trajectories and enables automated fleet management.
State of the art AI-based modules, which process video data to detect bridge’s defects.

TXT E-Tech leads the CAPRI project as prime contractor, overseeing overall coordination, technical development, and integration of the drone inspection system.
Leveraging the support of the wider TXT Group, TXT e-tech ensures the delivery of cutting-edge AI modules for defect detection in bridge structures, real-time drone localization monitoring, and automated fleet mission execution.
Our expertise drives innovation, enabling scalable, reliable drone inspections to enhance bridge safety and reduce operational costs for infrastructure managers.