Calling all robots – Sellafield challenges launched
![Image of an AVEXIS robot](https://assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/image_data/file/91794/s300_Avexis_trials-B142-Rov-13-04-17_WEB.jpg)
Robots are already in use at Sellafield. For example the Avexis (pictured) offers the ability to ‘see’ inside a waste silo via cameras attached to its body.
People from across Sellafield Ltd and the supply chain gathered at a robotics and innovation event in West Cumbria today to hear how the development and innovative use of technology is key to the clean-up of Sellafield.
Working alongside the Robotics and Artificial Intelligence for Nuclear hub, one of 4 robotics hubs in the UK, Sellafield Ltd is developing, testing and deploying new robotics systems fit for nuclear environments.
This investment is already making a difference at Sellafield, including robotic systems that are:
There are also plenty of opportunities for the supply chain to bring their innovations to Sellafield.
Three specific opportunities were launched at the robotics event:
- Deployment techniques to allow remote working at height in high hazardous areas
- Autonomous removal of Special Nuclear Material packages from a store to a transport container for export
- Remote inspection of Special Nuclear Material packages
More information on the challenges can be found on the Game Changes website.
Dr Frank Allison from Game Changers said:
The event highlighted the ways in which robotics and artificial intelligence can be used within Sellafield to support decommissioning. There were exhibitions of cutting-edge robotic technology and three new exciting challenges are now open for the supply chain to find solutions to.
It brought together people from a wide variety of organisations and industries and we’re looking forward to nurturing new relationships and paving the way for some really innovative thinking.
Published 19 September 2019