A key TUBERS result is now visible on the European Commission’s Horizon Results Platform: the project’s Explainable Machine Learning and Decision Support System. The listing brings the result to a European marketplace designed to connect publicly funded innovation with organisations that can help validate, use and further develop it.

Turning inspection data into understandable evidence

Developed through WP7, led by the University of Essex, the result combines machine-learning algorithms with an interactive Decision Support System. Deep convolutional neural networks analyse visual and ultrasonic inspection data to identify anomalies such as cracks, rust and mould across steel, concrete and plastic pipe scenarios.

A central objective is explainability. Pixel-level heatmaps indicate which parts of an image influenced a prediction, helping users check whether the model is responding to structural damage rather than irrelevant background detail. For defect localisation, a diffusion-based segmentation method progressively refines masks and is designed to reduce the fragmented outputs that can occur with more traditional approaches.

From detection to maintenance decisions

The DSS places analysis in an operational context. It maps the water network, flags likely defect locations and presents estimated repair-cost and environmental-impact information. The aim is to help end-users move from raw inspection files toward clearer, evidence-based maintenance choices.

The next step is collaboration

The Horizon Results Platform lists the solution at the demonstration and system-development stage (TRL 6-8). The next steps are further testing with real-world data, pilot validation with end-users, closer integration into operational workflows and preparation for commercial exploitation.

TUBERS is therefore looking for pilot customers, strategic partners and investors interested in trustworthy AI for infrastructure inspection. Tech Hive Labs is listed as the result contributor and owner for exploitation purposes. The platform entry creates a direct route for organisations that want to explore technical collaboration, access to research infrastructure or data, and future market uptake.

Visit the official Horizon Results Platform entry and contact TUBERS to discuss pilot validation or collaboration. View the result on the Horizon Results Platform