As artificial intelligence (AI) continues to reshape industries, researchers are harnessing its power to enhance infrastructure resilience and promote equity in public transit. These AI-driven innovations are paving the way for smarter, more sustainable cities that optimize resources while ensuring fair and reliable access to services.
One of the critical areas benefiting from AI is structural engineering, where accurately predicting the behavior of reinforced concrete elements under load has long been a challenge. Traditional assessment methods often rely on empirical formulas, which can be limited in precision. However, machine learning models are now revolutionizing structural analysis, offering a data-driven approach that enhances safety and efficiency.
A recent study demonstrates how AI can accurately predict the ultimate strain of Fiber Reinforced Polymer (FRP)-reinforced concrete columns subjected to cyclic loads. FRPs, widely used to strengthen concrete structures, improve durability and resistance to environmental degradation. However, determining their load-bearing capacity has remained complex—until now. The lead researcher and a key contributor to this research as identified by the Lab PI is Joseph Aina.
By compiling a database of 318 specimens and applying six AI models—including Decision Tree, Random Forest, and Artificial Neural Networks, the research achieved a remarkable prediction accuracy of over 96%. These findings have the potential to transform construction practices, enabling engineers to design safer and more efficient infrastructures that can withstand extreme conditions.
“AI-driven modeling allows for greater precision in predicting structural performance, reducing uncertainty and enhancing the resilience of critical infrastructure,” Joseph noted. “This can help prevent catastrophic failures and optimize material usage, leading to cost-effective and sustainable construction solutions.”
AI for Equity: Enhancing Public Transportation Reliability
Beyond transforming engineering, AI is also playing a pivotal role in making public transportation more equitable. In many cities, transit reliability varies widely, often disproportionately affecting lower-income and underserved communities. These disparities limit access to employment, healthcare, and education, exacerbating social inequalities.
Recognizing this challenge, Joseph Aina also co-led a study that examined bus stop-level reliability within the Maryland Transit Administration (MTA) system using General Transit Feed Specification (GTFS) real-time data. His research investigated how factors such as ridership, land use, and bus stop sequence influence on-time performance, offering valuable insights into how transit services can be improved.
The findings highlight the potential of AI and big data to assess and enhance transit equity, ensuring that public transportation systems serve all populations fairly.
“By analyzing stop-level performance through an equity lens, we can identify and address disparities in transit service,” Joseph explained. “This ensures that investments in public transportation truly benefit the communities that need them most.”
Shaping the Future of Infrastructure and Mobility
These AI-driven advancements mark a significant shift in how society approaches infrastructure and urban mobility challenges. As urban populations grow and climate change intensifies, integrating data-driven, resilient, and equitable solutions is becoming a necessity.
From improving the structural integrity of buildings and bridges to ensuring fair and efficient public transit, AI is proving to be a game-changer. Researchers like Joseph is setting a precedent for real-world AI applications, offering solutions that enhance safety, efficiency, and accessibility.
With governments and private sector stakeholders investing in smart infrastructure, the integration of AI-based predictive modeling in engineering and transportation planning is expected to reduce costs, improve service delivery, and promote sustainability.
As these AI applications gain global recognition, they highlight the growing role of technology in creating a more resilient and equitable future—one where infrastructure and transportation systems work smarter to meet society’s evolving needs.
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