AI, drones, robots worldwide:
What is new for sewer networks?
IKT invites international contributions to the third annual conference “AI, Drones, Sensors and Robots for Smart Sewers and Urban Drainage”. On 3–4 February 2027 in Gelsenkirchen, Germany, researchers, network operators and technology developers will examine new tools for sewer networks and urban drainage – and the evidence for using them. Presentation proposals are welcome until 31 October 2026.
Drones survey sewers that are difficult to access. Sensors collect data during operation. AI helps interpret inspection findings, while robots are being developed for work underground.
But which technologies are ready for use? What have field trials shown? And what do network operators need to put them to work? These are the questions at the heart of IKT’s 2027 international conference.
International developments in one place
Researchers, sewer network operators and technology developers from different countries will present their projects and discuss where new methods help – and where their limits remain.
The programme will cover AI and digitalisation, drones and robotics, sensors for inspection and real-time data, and predictive analytics. IKT is looking for contributions with clear findings from research, development or operational practice.
From demonstration to use in sewer networks
The conference builds on the 2026 edition. According to IKT, more than 100 specialists from 14 countries attended. Live demonstrations in IKT’s test facilities showed flying and underwater drones in action. Presentations covered LiDAR surveys, sensor-based infiltration detection and AI-assisted analysis, among other applications. The 2027 event will bring further findings and practical experience into the discussion.
Call for Presentations: submit by 31 October
IKT invites researchers, utility professionals and companies to propose a presentation. Submit a title and an abstract of no more than 300 words by 31 October 2026 to: ac*****@*kt.institute
Conference attendance is free of charge for presenters.
Date and further information
3–4 February 2027
IKT – Institute for Underground Infrastructure, Gelsenkirchen, Germany.
The full call, including topics and submission details, is available here:
Read IKT’s report on the 2026 conference here:
Conference contact
IKT – Institute for Underground Infrastructure
Ashwini Ausekar
au*****@*kt.institute
www.ikt.institute