Quadruped Confined Space Inspectors (REF:C-0060)

Overview

Quadruped Confined Space Inspectors use robotic dogs to perform remote inspections in confined spaces, supporting risk assessment and reducing the need of workers to enter high risk areas. The robotic dog can collect key data, including gas concentrations and environmental conditions, while its communication signal can be continuously extended through relay, maintaining a stable connection. This setup improves both the safety and efficiency of confined space operations by enabling better pre-entry evaluation and ongoing monitoring to prevent workers from exposing unnecessary dangers.

Problem Addressed 1. Enhancing site safety
Through robotic systems, workers can avoid entering high-risk environments. The system enables real-time remote inspection and supports multiple remote monitoring connections, greatly reducing the risk of accidents.
2. Accurate gas concentration measurement
The system provides precise on-site gas concentration readings and includes an audible alarm function on the remote controller to alert both on-site and remote operators.
3. Comprehensive site environment recording
The robot can detect potential hazards at an early stage and provides video recordings of the site for post-analysis and safety reporting.
4. Enhance manpower and resource allocation
The solution reduces the need for on-site personnel while improving efficiency and optimizing resource utilization.
5. Flexible sensor integration
The system can be flexibly connected to various types of sensors, including gas detectors and thermal cameras, to meet different site inspection requirements.
Innovation 1. The solution is specially equipped with a four-in-one gas detector, Pan-Tilt-Zoom camera, thermal camera and LiDAR sensor. Different instruments can be installed on the robotic dog before entering complex environments, depending on the mission requirements.
2. Data from the different detectors is transmitted in real-time back to the operator's handheld remote control via a Mesh Wi-Fi network.
3. The handheld controller with high-definition touchscreen and processor allow the operator to conduct precise and detailed remote inspections of confined spaces from a safe area.
4. The robotic dog wheeled design combines the features of a stepper and wheels, enabling it to climb stairs, cross obstacles, and even navigate narrow pipes.
Key Benefits 1. Remote inspection of confined spaces reduces the need for colleagues to enter these spaces.
2. If working in confined spaces is unavoidable, this solution allows colleagues to conduct more thorough risk assessments beforehand, improving efficiency and safety.
3. The solution optimizes manpower allocation and increases work efficiency.
4. The solution can be used in various scenarios, such as under bridges, plant rooms, pump rooms, and docks.
5. Robotic dog can be equipped with various sensors, such as light meters, decibel meters, and thermal cameras, to detect potential hazards.
Patent and Award
  • Short term Patent: Pending
  • The 5th Asia Exhibition of Innovations and Inventions Hong Kong – Silver Medal
  • Best OHS Enhancement Project Competition - Champion, The Best Green Projects  - Champion
  • The 51st Geneva International Exhibition of Inventions – Gold Medal
Project Reference Site test on Stonecutters Island Sewage Treatment Works, Aberdeen Tunnel, North Point Preliminary Treatment Works, Tai Po Sewage Treatment Works, Siu Ho Wan Sewage Treatment Works, Happy Valley Underground Stormwater Storage