FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

PaveLink: Intelligent Modular Road Builder Integrating AI, IoT, and Autonomous Operation for Next-Generation Infrastructure

PaveLink, a pioneering project by designers Jialu Hou and Yan Zhang, is transforming the future of road construction with its intelligent, modular, and fully electric road-building system. Developed in Shandong, China, between February and June 2024, PaveLink was created in response to the persistent challenges faced by remote, disaster-affected, and rugged regions where traditional road construction methods often fall short due to complexity, safety risks, and resource limitations. By integrating advanced technologies such as AI-driven automation, IoT connectivity, and modular machinery, PaveLink aims to make road building smarter, faster, and more resilient.

Unlike conventional construction vehicles, PaveLink features a truck-based system towing four detachable modules that autonomously function as excavators, loaders, bulldozers, and compactors. Upon arrival at a worksite, the truck head becomes the command center, coordinating all modules through real-time data from aerial drones and backend analysis. This modular approach allows each unit to operate independently or collaboratively, optimizing workflow and safety while reducing labor dependency. The entire system is powered by electricity, with all modules remaining connected for seamless power and data transmission, ensuring continuous operation even in challenging environments.

PaveLink's development was a collaborative effort between academia and industry, combining design innovation from universities with technical expertise and feedback from construction professionals. The project underwent multiple iterations, expert consultations, and prototype testing to ensure its practicality and effectiveness in real-world conditions. Its successful deployment and recognition by the Shandong provincial government, as well as its participation in the 14th National Art Exhibition of China, underscore its impact. Winning the Iron A' Futuristic Design Award in 2025 further validates PaveLink's contribution to advancing smart, inclusive, and sustainable infrastructure solutions worldwide.

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