Robotics experts at the Manufacturing Technology Centre have developed an autonomous robotic rat which can scurry along underground pipes carrying out inspection work. The invention has the potential for cost and efficiency savings for utility companies as well as reducing human exposure to hazardous environments and preventing pipework leaks.
“Ratty the Robot” is a tetherless wheeled inspection robot with a laser-based navigation module, with the potential to carry out tasks in environments which would defeat most robots.
The robot’s ability to access and work autonomously in difficult conditions has the potential for major costs savings for utility companies as well as removing risks associated with working in hazardous environments. As the robot can self-drive it reduces the need for a human operator. It has the added advantage of automatically mapping complex pipework and tunnel systems which have built up over many years.
MTC advanced robotics research engineer Dr Mahesh Dissanayake said the pipe-crawling robot could give the utilities sector opportunities for cost saving combined with increased efficiency, and demonstrated how robotics and automation can benefit a wide variety of sectors.
Currently, most advanced inspection work of drainage, sewage and gas supply pipes is carried out by tethered devices managed by operators, which is costly, slow and labour intensive, with difficult to reach areas. The MTC’s concept robot is tetherless, with the ability to operate autonomously and navigate confined areas, enabling the operator to focus on the inspection.
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