Explore, design and build the intelligent robot for conducting remote inspections for the vessels of LPG road tankers [with the capabilities of real-time imaging, Non Destructive Examination (NDE) technique and data analysis]

I&T Wish

Explore, design and build the intelligent robot for conducting remote inspections for the vessels of LPG road tankers [with the capabilities of real-time imaging, Non Destructive Examination (NDE) technique and data analysis]
(REF: W-0374)

Matched I&T Solution

Trial Project

Summary and Challenges

This project aims to overcome the current in-tank inspection constraints met by our personnel, and enhance the safety, efficiency and accuracy of road tanker vessel inspection via exploration of robotic technology.
Some of the current constraints includes the following :
- Only single small manhole of diameter 0.76m to gain access into the vessel
- Confined interior (with presence of baffle plates) making it hard and time-consuming for inspector to shuffle around
- Unpleasant air quality in tank and potential health hazards arising from the chemicals sprayed for the Non-Destructive Examination (NDE)
- Tedious work to trace and re-examine the exact inspected areas with only photographs taken inside the tank

Expected Outcome

A prototype intelligent robot with appropriate on-board surveying modules shall be designed, developed, constructed, tested and commissioned.
The robot shall include the following key features :
- Navigate the tank interiors securely with magnetic wheels
- Capture full-angled visions (e.g. 360° Camera) to reinforce the visual inspection with live footage, and assist report verifications with fortified inspection database
- Measure vessel plate thickness with phased array ultrasonic inspection module
- Examine the weld integrity via ultrasonic inspection module
- Compact size which permits crossing between compartments via baffle plates openings
- Equipped with an intelligent analysis system to process and analyze the data collected for the welds and plate thickness

Expected Trial Duration

9-month

Contact Information

I&T Wish Proposer	:	Electrical and Mechanical Services Department (EMSD)
Contact Person	:	Wong Chun Yin, Anson
Position	:	Engineer/Gas Standards B2 Sub-division/2
Tel	:	2808 3866
Email	:	ansonwong@emsd.gov.hk

Upload Date

2021-07-19

Closing Date

2021-08-02

Propose I&T Solution

Closed

I&T Wish - Explore, design and build the intelligent robot for conducting remote inspections for the vessels of LPG road tankers [with the capabilities of real-time imaging, Non Destructive Examination (NDE) technique and data analysis] 2021-07-14

Explore, design and build the intelligent robot for conducting remote inspections for the vessels of LPG road tankers [with the capabilities of real-time imaging, Non Destructive Examination (NDE) technique and data analysis]