Saudi Startup VisiGround Transforms Underground Scanning With Innovative Radar Technology

VisiGround, a Saudi startup, is at the forefront of developing advanced technologies for detecting water and oil leaks and identifying buried objects underground. By integrating sophisticated radar systems with intelligent robotics, VisiGround offers innovative solutions that surpass traditional ground-penetrating radar (GPR) limitations. This technology provides quick and precise data to locate underground cables, voids, and pipelines, aiding organisations in making proactive maintenance decisions.

VisiGround's system is designed and manufactured in Saudi Arabia, supporting local content while promoting innovation and technology transfer. This approach contributes to the knowledge economy. The technology originated from applied research at the National Laboratory of King Abdulaziz City for Science and Technology (KACST). It plays a crucial role in sustainability by protecting groundwater from contamination, facilitating resource exploration, and assisting municipalities in smarter planning for roads and sewage systems.

The system utilises a dual-radar platform combined with mobile robots that send and receive electromagnetic waves. Advanced algorithms analyse the data to detect pipeline leaks, buried structures, communication lines, and electrical cables. This results in high-resolution 3D imagery of underground assets and their condition, preventing damage during excavation activities.

VisiGround's applications extend beyond infrastructure monitoring; they include search-and-rescue operations, landmine detection, and archaeological exploration. The company's innovation has been recognised with a U.S. patent and several awards. It won first place in both the MiyahThon and the Sustainability Innovation Challenge and secured second place in the Global Infrastructure Forum’s Research and Innovation track.

The startup also reached the finals of the Jameel Deeptech Initiative and was named among the top six Saudi startups in the Sahabah program. Having graduated from KACST’s Venture Program (KVP), VisiGround is now focused on developing an integrated data analytics platform to enhance system efficiency. This platform aims to provide actionable intelligence to water utilities and infrastructure managers.

VisiGround plans to expand its reach within Saudi Arabia and internationally through strategic partnerships with government bodies and infrastructure operators. The company aims to deliver eco-friendly solutions that align with Saudi Vision 2030's emphasis on innovation and sustainability across key sectors.

With inputs from SPA