The robot is being trialled for remote operations in inspection and data capture.
The maintenance robot dog is being trialled at Sellafield to demonstrate the possibility of a secure network for remote operation of robotics on work sites.
The maintenance robot dog is also being considered for decommissioning uses.
The maintenance robot dog is based on a Boston Dynamics robot
The machine is a customised Boston Dynamics robot, known as Spot, which is a quadrupedal robot visually similar to a dog.
During the trial, the robot has been working with employees to inspect areas, capture important data, and perform tasks in hazardous areas. The trial has been underway for the last two years, including months of work to build the digital and cyber protocols required for operation of the maintenance robot dog.
AtkinsRéalis has also been using virtual site access for several major construction projects, allowing for remote access and recording and viewing of footage for team in several locations.
The robots are intended to save time and costs, as well as reduce the number of staff needed onsite at a given time. Specialists can view the data and footage off-site and, if required, make decisions there and then. This can, in turn, reduce the time needed for action to take place.
Robotics could be key to upgrading construction
Writing for PBC Today in November, Gilles Retsin of Automated Architecture discussed how important robotics may be for the construction industry, specifically in housing construction. They can offer more streamlined solutions in construction offsite and in MMC. They can often adapt without need for any additional setup costs.
Richard Brook, technology solutions lead for decommissioning at AtkinsRéalis, said: “Sellafield Ltd has pioneered the adoption of technology across its operations, and this latest milestone is another step forward for the role of robotics in decommissioning. Virtual site access is already being used in the delivery of major infrastructure programmes: this trial is a big step towards unlocking its benefits for nuclear licensed sites without compromising safety or security.”
Deon Bulman, ROV equipment programme lead at Sellafield Ltd said,: “This successful trial marks a significant milestone in our journey towards integrating advanced robotics into our operations at Sellafield. The ability to remotely operate robotic systems like Spot demonstrates how digital innovation can enhance safety, efficiency, and decision-making on nuclear-licensed sites. By collaborating with AtkinsRéalis, we are exploring cutting-edge solutions that not only support our decommissioning mission but also pave the way for future advancements in remote operations.”
