A Birmingham-based engineering company, known for its expertise in designing robotic technology for safeguarding and maintaining the built environment, has recently been granted Game Changers funding. The purpose of this funding is to support the company in developing a groundbreaking wall climbing robot. The robot is specifically designed to carry out inspections in hard-to-reach areas.
At the Sellafield site, which encompasses a multitude of nuclear and non-nuclear facilities, the demand for monitoring and maintenance is substantial. By employing a remotely operated vehicle like the one being developed, the company aims to significantly reduce inspection costs and minimise the need for human workers to perform tasks at elevated heights.
The distinguishing feature of this ROV lies in its unique hardware platform. This platform empowers the robot to traverse any type of surface, including concrete, brick, and metal. Consequently, it can provide 3D visual inspection data that revolutionizes the field. Furthermore, the ROV has the remarkable ability to navigate through small gaps or cracks in surfaces and can effectively operate on curved structures, all without relying on suction or magnetism.
The ongoing project undertaken by HausBots primarily focuses on demonstrating the ROV’s efficacy in conducting external non-ferrous tank and chimney stack inspections. These particular areas pose challenges where existing state-of-the-art solutions fail to function or have limited capacity. To achieve this, the robot will be miniaturised, integrated with relevant inspection payloads, and customised to suit the specific requirements of the nuclear industry.
The project is anticipated to reach its conclusion later this year. Upon successful completion, it is poised to bring about significant advancements in inspection processes within hazardous and hard-to-access environments.
For more information visit www.gamechangers.technology
