Inspection capabilities of Snake-arm robot to Showcase at ITF event

At ITF Technology Showcase delegates will be given an insight into how a novel snake-arm robot could take offshore inspection to a new level.

OC Robotics has proven the capability of the P100 snake-arm robotic inspection system onshore and is now exploring the feasibility of robotic inspection of offshore oil and gas pressure vessels. Snake-arm robots are driven by wire ropes and controlled by OC Robotics’ proprietary software. Snake-arm robots are especially suited to working in confined and hazardous spaces as they can navigate and traverse cluttered environments. Only the arm itself is deployed into the workspace as the main drive motors, electronics and control systems are located away from the inspection area.

Project Manager at OC Robotics, Rebecca Smith said that their project is innovative in the deployment of robotic technology in harsh environments, such as the North Sea. There is real potential to improve inspection outputs and extend asset life by characterising vessels and assessing fitness for service without human entry into dangerous and confined spaces. They are at an exciting stage with the P100 and they looking forward to tell the story to a like-minded audience at the Showcase.

Image Source: ITF Technology Showcase