Edge-enhanced YOLOv8 for Adaptive Real-time Pothole detection in smart road network

The aim of this project has been to enhance road safety by using the inexpensive ESP32-CAM module along with YOLO V8 for pothole detection. It is possible to capture real-time photos of the road due to the efficiency and cost-effectiveness of the ESP32-CAM. In terms of methodology, grayscale conversion and Canny algorithm-based edge detection techniques have been used in pre-processing to detect pothole anomalies from contours. Adding the morphological processes and filtering techniques improves the accuracy by removing noise and false positives. The processed data can be combined with GPS modules to map locations of potholes and provide drivers and local authorities with real-time alerts. Preliminary findings suggest that the system can detect potholes in different lighting and environmental conditions, which may give the system an extensive application. Roads, intelligent transportation systems, and other