TACK Tunnel Data (TTD): A Benchmark Dataset for Deep Learning-Based Defect Detection in Tunnels
This dataset addresses the critical lack of domain-specific data for automated tunnel inspection, which is incremental as it builds on existing deep learning approaches by providing a new resource for the infrastructure maintenance domain.
The paper tackles the problem of automated defect detection in tunnels by introducing a new publicly available dataset of annotated tunnel lining images with typical defects, which supports various deep learning methods and enables investigation of model generalization across tunnel types.
Tunnels are essential elements of transportation infrastructure, but are increasingly affected by ageing and deterioration mechanisms such as cracking. Regular inspections are required to ensure their safety, yet traditional manual procedures are time-consuming, subjective, and costly. Recent advances in mobile mapping systems and Deep Learning (DL) enable automated visual inspections. However, their effectiveness is limited by the scarcity of tunnel datasets. This paper introduces a new publicly available dataset containing annotated images of three different tunnel linings, capturing typical defects: cracks, leaching, and water infiltration. The dataset is designed to support supervised, semi-supervised, and unsupervised DL methods for defect detection and segmentation. Its diversity in texture and construction techniques also enables investigation of model generalization and transferability across tunnel types. By addressing the critical lack of domain-specific data, this dataset contributes to advancing automated tunnel inspection and promoting safer, more efficient infrastructure maintenance strategies.