In a remarkable display of innovation and expertise, the 3D/360-degree Car Scanner Robotic Arm was designed and implemented as a joint project between VT Solutions, a French based company, and at the Faculty of Engineering (FOE) of the University of Balamand (UOB), by a team led by Dr. Rodrigue Imad (Associate Professor, Computer Engineering Department) and Dr. Jihad Rishmany (Associate Professor/Chairperson, Mechanical Engineering Department). The multidisciplinary project took almost a year to complete and was exclusively manufactured and assembled in the Mechanical Engineering laboratories.
Equipped with an array of high-resolution cameras, the robotic arm swiftly and meticulously inspects every inch of the vehicle, capturing detailed data using stream stereoscopic images on its condition, and identifying potential issues such as bumps and scratches. The project can perform a complete 360-degree scan and a 3D model of any car placed within its reach in less than one minute.
VT solutions, which has funded the project, plans to integrate the 3D/360-degree car scanner into its existing suite of automotive solutions, aiming to streamline the inspection process and elevate industry standards to a new level. The implementation of this technology is expected to revolutionize the car evaluation process, benefiting car manufacturers, dealerships, car rentals agencies, service centers, and consumers.
VT Solutions is a SARL company, with car services as main shareholder and partner. It is located in France, whilst its research and production take place mainly in Lebanon. Mr. Fadel Maatouk, owner and manager of VT Solutions, is a geo-information and 3D mapping engineer, who was delighted for his company to work with the University of Balamand and stated: “I was keen for the idea and prototype to be executed and produced in Lebanon. After a desperate long search and several fruitless meetings with some of the most prestigious universities in Lebanon and in France, we became only interested in the Faculty of Engineering at UOB. Our first contact with Dr. Rodrigue Imad who showed interest, professionalism and real involvement for collaboration through this project set Balamand as a cut above all other institutions. Our first meeting was very successful and the partnership decision was easily taken thanks to the skills and expertise of the UOB team.”
The project’s delivery has garnered significant attention from the automotive industry in Europe. Major car manufacturers and service centers have expressed strong interest in adopting this cutting-edge technology, recognizing its potential to streamline inspections, reduce costs, and improve customer satisfaction.
Vice President for Internationalization and Engagement and Dean of the Faculty of Engineering Prof. Rami Abboud welcomed Mr. Maatouk along with his associate and brother Mr. Haissam Maatouk in his office on 1 June 2023 to discuss the joint collaboration, and was heartened to hear why they have decided to choose the Faculty of Engineering at the University of Balamand ahead of all other universities and industries, in Lebanon and in France. Prof. Abboud further commended the efforts of both Dr. Imad and Dr. Rishmany for their innovative 3D imaging tool, proudly and exclusively made at FOE at UOB, knowing that they have the President, Dr Elias Warrak, and his full encouragement and support for their future development of the newly expected robotics and artificial intelligence center. Prof. Abboud strongly believes that these kinds of international partnerships exemplify the strong ties between academia and industry, resulting in groundbreaking research solutions that address real-world challenges in compliance with UN SDGs 8, 9 and 12. Prof. Abboud hopes that this collaborative work will showcase UOB’s commitment to fostering innovation, multidisciplinary research, and technological advancements in various sectors in line with our motto from ‘lab to society’.
