Wireless, long-term environmental monitoring 2.pdf

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CHALLENGE AIMSSellafield Ltd are seeking remote monitoring devices that can:<ul><li>Provide regular cell environmental data remotely (temperature, humidity and salinity)</li><li>Provide an alert if alpha radiation levels reach a threshold value</li><li>Be able to transmit measured environmental data from inside the cell through the concrete cell wall to a receiver at the charge face, where it will be transmitted by Wi-Fi or existing plant IT infrastructure to a standalone laptop</li><li>Function within a modified dummy package in SNM package stores, which is a radioactive environment</li><li>Operate for 30+ years</li></ul>In addition to the monitoring device, the solution should consider how the signal will be transmitted from the outside of the cell to the control room several tens of metres through the building fabric. There are pre-existing cables that run up to the control room. The data will be managed through interaction with a user interface that would enable operators to visualise data trends, although this is not an expected output of any feasibility study.Alternative methods of measuring environmental conditions will be considered a bonus.FIND OUT MOREPlease download the challenge statement for full details of this opportunity.You can watch a webinar and Q&amp;A session with the challenge owners for more information and details of how to apply.<iframe class="ql-video" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="true" src="https://player.vimeo.com/video/886638379/"></iframe>The deadline for applications for this challenge is 6pm on Wednesday 29th November 2023.

Wireless, long-term environmental monitoring of nuclear stores

Sellafield Ltd is responsible for the safe, long-term storage of Special Nuclear Materials (SNM), which are the result of spent nuclear fuel reprocessing. Environmental monitoring of the SNM package stores is necessary to demonstrate that the packages remain in a stable environment. Sellafield Ltd would like to explore the installation of sensors within an empty SNM package that can regularly wirelessly transmit data about the environment within the SNM stores.The solution must be able to transmit data from inside the cell through the concrete cell wall to a receiver at the charge face, then onto the control room. Sellafield are seeking a proof of concept within 12 - 18 months, and a deployable solution by 2026.

Sellafield Ltd would like to remotely monitor the environment inside long-term nuclear product storage facilities by using sensors that can regularly transmit data wirelessly

Challenge Statement - Autonomous Transportation of Nuclear Materials.pdf

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CHALLENGE AIMSSellafield Ltd is planning to bring the new storage facility into active commission within 5 years. A solution to fully automate package transfers without the reliance on manual methods is desirable within this timeframe. Sellafield Ltd is looking for a prototype or high-level concept (or combination thereof) in the first instance, with the opportunity for further development to Proof of Concept (PoC) through the Game Changers programme, completing before April 2025. The concept must be able to cope with the increased frequency of journeys. Successful operation is paramount, and any solution must provide constant communications with a base (and ensure communications with CNC). If the solution were to break down, then the solution must be capable of flagging a change in its status to base. Safeguarding of the transfers must be manageable and an eye on approach through the use of technology such as cameras must be available continuously to ensure compliance with regulatory requirements (at all times).Additionally, it is an aspiration to have an intelligent transport system that can understand the overall layout of the Sellafield site in order to service various plants and stores and have the capability to understand obstacles and road closures, as well as navigating and abiding with unmarked crossroads and pedestrian crossings. The Sellafield site is unique in its layout and much of the typical road signage you would commonly see on highways is not always present in some less populated areas of the site.Sellafield Ltd is interested in receiving applications from organisations capable of delivering a full system. Applications outlining how sub-systems of an intelligent delivery system could be implemented are also of interest; for example, the provision of video analytics that could help to identify pedestrians.FIND OUT MOREPlease download the challenge statement for full details of this opportunity.You can watch a webinar and Q&amp;A session with the challenge owners for more information and details of how to apply.<iframe class="ql-video" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="true" src="https://player.vimeo.com/video/886623169/"></iframe>The deadline for applications for this challenge is 6pm on Thursday 30th November 2023.

Autonomous transportation of nuclear materials

Sellafield Ltd is building new long-term facilities to safely and securely store nuclear inventory. Once operational, the new storage facilities will receive packages from a number of legacy stores across the Sellafield site, significantly increasing the number of waste package journeys, from monthly to daily. Investing in automated processes to transport waste and product packages across the Sellafield site will reduce the reliance on driver and vehicle availability. Automating the transfers will improve overall capability to increase Sellafield’s transfer activities in the coming years.

Sellafield Ltd is seeking to automate the transportation process of packages housing nuclear materials from legacy stores into new purpose-built facilities for long-term storage, improving efficiency, and maintaining absolute safety and security of carriage.

Game Changers challenge - automated alpha in-air monitoring 2.pdf

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CHALLENGE AIMSSellafield Ltd is seeking an airborne alpha monitoring system that:<ul><li>Can cope with a dusty environment</li><li>Has an alarm output that allows the operator to distinguish between the genuine detection of alpha or beta radiation and reduced airflow or any other false alarm states</li><li>Reports its status digitally to a central location (long-term goal, not currently required)</li><li>Can act as a first-line defence against alpha or beta contamination and provide reliable safety assurance for operations</li></ul>Sellafield Ltd is aiming to discover the ‘art-of-the-possible’ rather than alternative commercially available products. The ultimate aim is to install a maintenance-free system that requires no intervention.FIND OUT MOREPlease download the challenge statement for full details of this opportunity. Please note that this challenge statement supersedes a version published on 18th October 2023. The updated challenge statement includes the following clarifications:<ul><li>Any proposed monitoring solution must compensate for naturally occurring radon</li><li>The ability to digitally self-report to a central location is an essential requirement</li><li>The available power supply is 110V to 240V AC, 47Hz to 63Hz</li><li>Any device must be suitable for UKCA marking</li></ul>You can watch a webinar and Q&amp;A session with the challenge owners for more information and details of how to apply.<iframe class="ql-video" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="true" src="https://player.vimeo.com/video/886538732/"></iframe>The deadline for applications for this challenge is 6pm on Thursday 30th November 2023.

Automated alpha in-air monitoring

Alpha radiation is the most ionising type of radiation, making it extremely harmful to humans. Sellafield Ltd must have the ability to detect any airborne alpha radiation on-site in order to be alert to loss of containment and to keep personnel safe.There are several types of radioactivity in-air monitors used on the Sellafield site, but they all use the same basic principle of operation. The current monitoring systems require regular maintenance and often go into alarm status because of blocked filter media at the air intake. This results in access to areas being restricted unnecessarily. Sellafield Ltd would like to explore the possibility of implementing a fully automated monitoring system that does not require frequent, routine maintenance and allows operators to discern between genuine alpha radiation detected alarm states and other alarm states due to reduced airflow and other factors.

Sellafield Ltd would like to explore the possibility of implementing a fully automated airborne radiation monitoring system that does not require frequent, routine maintenance.

Challenge Statement - Novel separation and direct measurement technologies.pdf

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CHALLENGE AIMSOne of the challenges Analytical Services at Sellafield encounter is the cost and inefficiency of processes and techniques currently used to analyse radionuclides and other analytes. Sellafield Ltd would like to explore new and novel technologies or techniques to improve upon its current practices.Analytical Services recognise that non-destructive techniques usually require minimal modification for nuclear operations and could deliver quicker and cheaper analysis. The specific areas of interest include:<ul><li>Direct measurement technologies of liquids, solids and powders – where separation of species is not required and the need for chemical separation is negated. These technologies could be deployed on plants or in the laboratory inside cells or glove boxes.</li><li>Simple, efficient and clean separation technology – to separate species of interest from interference from other species (possibly with integrated measurement technology).</li><li>Microfluidic techniques and laser techniques that bring the additional advantage of low waste volume generation.</li></ul>FIND OUT MOREPlease download the challenge statement for full details of this opportunity. You can also watch a webinar and Q &amp; A session with the challenge owners for more information and details of how to apply.<iframe class="ql-video" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="true" src="https://player.vimeo.com/video/873768293/"></iframe>

Analytical Services: Novel separation and direct measurement technologies for radionuclides and analytes

As the UK’s largest nuclear site, Sellafield has played a central role in the history of the nuclear industry in the UK. Throughout all operational phases, Sellafield Ltd’s Analytical Services teams have provided essential support to safe operations, waste processing, and hazard/risk reduction activities. Analytical Services operate in a 70-year-old facility using many analytical protocols, some of which were developed 30 to 40 years ago. Operations in these laboratories are currently being phased out and much of the future work will be performed in the National Nuclear Laboratory Central Lab (NNLCL). The move to the NNLCL creates a great opportunity for new and innovative technologies and techniques to be introduced into the analytical work to improve the efficiency, safety and quality of the analysis. It is vital Analytical Services assess, understand and support the development of new technologies to ensure the potential benefits of the move to updated facilities are achieved.

Sellafield Ltd would like to explore new and novel technologies or techniques to analyse radionuclides and other analytes, to improve upon the current practices used, reducing cost and inefficiencies.

Challenge Statement - Measurement of evolved gases from radioactive samples.pdf

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CHALLENGE AIMSSellafield Ltd wishes to adopt more accurate, efficient and effective techniques and technologies to identify impurities in solid or mixed matric radioactive samples.Typical samples, often in powder form, include plutonium and uranium oxide, with small quantities of impurities-less than 400 μg per gram.The evolved species to be measured and quantified where they exist in the sample include water, chlorine and other halides, carbon (as CO and CO2), tritium, carbon-14 and other species most likely to be in solid form. Any solution must be robust and maintainable and should avoid techniques that create radioactive waste. Ideally, solutions should be able to measure more than one sample in a run. The measurement technology may be deployed directly or could be placed outside containment.FIND OUT MOREPlease download the challenge statement for full details of this opportunity. You can also watch a webinar and Q &amp; A session with the challenge owners for more information and details of how to apply.<iframe class="ql-video" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="true" src="https://player.vimeo.com/video/873768293/"></iframe>

Analytical Services: Measurement of evolved gases from radioactive samples

Sellafield Ltd would like to explore new technologies or techniques for the measurement of impurities from solid or mixed matrix radioactive samples to improve upon current practices.

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a general challenge

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General application

If you think that you have an idea which might be of interest to any of our partners, please submit an application to tell us more.You can get learn about research areas which are of particular interest by reading our <a href="https://www.gamechangers.technology/partners" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">partner pages</a>.Information about the <a href="https://www.gamechangers.technology/projects" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">projects</a> we're currently funding should also help you to decide whether your technology might have application at Sellafield, NNL or Dounreay.In addition, you might like to read some of the historic challenge statements published on our site.If you'd like to explore your idea with us before submitting an application, please get in touch.Please note that applications can take up to 12 weeks to be assessed as funding decisions are made on a quarterly basis.

Applications for the Game Changers scheme are always welcome for any project or technology which could support nuclear innovation. If you have an idea which you think might be of interest to Sellafield, NNL or Dounreay we'd love to hear from you.

Challenge Statement - Identifying Deformities in 500L Drums.pdf

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CHALLENGE AIMSAny method of identifying expansion of drums prior to their removal from their stillage would be highly desirable. This would provide confidence that drums would fit back into the stillage following their removal for inspection.Sellafield Ltd are open to solutions that are deployed from either within or through the window of a drum inspection facility, although preference would be for a solution deployed within the inspection facility. The components of a solution that would be deployed within an inspection facility must be extremely radiation tolerant (see constraints).Any proposed solution should identify any distortions and be capable of measuring the following dimensions of a drum:<ul><li>Vertical height</li><li>Circumference</li><li>Width from the vertical centre line</li></ul>Sellafield Ltd are seeking solutions that can:<ul><li>Assess around 10 stillages (40 drums) within a 2-week window</li><li>Complete a single drum inspection within an hour</li><li>Ideally demonstrate a prototype to Sellafield Ltd within 3 months from the closing date of this challenge</li><li>Be capable of active deployment within 12 - 18 months</li></ul>FIND OUT MOREPlease download the challenge statement for full details of this opportunity. You can also watch a webinar and Q &amp; A session with the challenge owners for more information and details of how to apply.<iframe class="ql-video" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="true" src="https://player.vimeo.com/video/864502592/"></iframe>

Identifying deformities in 500L drums

Sellafield Ltd are responsible for the safe, long-term storage of highly radioactive waste materials that contain magnesium and uranium. This material has been produced by the reprocessing of Magnox fuel. Sellafield Ltd must provide secure containment of this waste for around 100 years of interim storage, that is until the waste is disposed of in a Geological Disposal Facility (GDF).This challenge is focused on 500L stainless steel drums in which uranium containing waste is stored. A method is required for accurately measuring all dimensions of the waste drums and identifying any deformities. The drums are contained within stillages, and Sellafield Ltd would prefer to be able to obtain drum measurements whilst they remain in their stillage.

Sellafield Ltd would like to explore techniques and technology which will enable them to accurately measure the dimensions of waste drums used for long-term storage, and identify any deformities

Game Changers challenge statement asset inspection.pdf

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CHALLENGE AIMSThe solution to this challenge must be capable of providing a detailed visual inspection of an entire duct system, and six adjoining tanks rooms, providing high-quality still images and real time video feed to the operator, where access to the duct system is constrained to a 19mm diameter bore through 0.35m - 1m of concrete.The duct systems (L x W x H: ~270m x 3m x 3m) are long and congested areas, with tank rooms positioned along their length. The deployment system must provide a method of determining the depth of entry of the camera system.Remote operation is required, and the operator can be stationed at the entrance of the access port. The next scheduled inspection is in 2025, and Sellafield are seeking a step-change improvement over the existing capabilities. Due to the time limited nature of this challenge, there will be an emphasis on well-developed technologies.FIND OUT MOREPlease download the challenge statement for full details of this opportunity.You can also watch a webinar and Q &amp; A session with the challenge owners for more information and details of how to apply.<iframe class="ql-video" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="true" src="https://player.vimeo.com/video/816498397/"></iframe> The application deadline for this challenge is 12 noon on 4th May 2023.

Asset inspection through 19mm diameter access ports

Sellafield Ltd are seeking solutions to enable the remote, visual inspection of duct systems. The duct systems are long and congested areas, with tank rooms positioned along their length. Access is restricted to a 19mm bore inspection port through 0.35m - 1m of concrete. Inspection of this ductwork and the adjoining tank room areas are required in order to understand more about their condition and the condition of the assets inside. To-date, this has proven challenging, and this is primarily due to the access constraints.A solution that can be deployed through narrow access ports that provides reliable, high quality images of the areas inside, would be of high interest to Sellafield Ltd and the Nuclear Decommissioning Authority (NDA) estate more widely.

Sellafield Ltd are seeking solutions to enable the remote, visual inspection of duct systems

Salt concentration measurement Game Changers challenge 2.pdf

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CHALLENGE AIMSSellafield are seeking innovative solutions that will enable the measurement of salt concentration on the TMA support structure in the lower plenum.Solutions must be capable of deployment into the vaults via vertical air ducts which contain a series of bends.Solutions should be capable of deployment once Proof of Concept has been established within the next 18 – 24 months.Proposals for solutions which address part, or all of this challenge, are invited. Applications solely describing salt measurement technology are welcome, as are applications solely describing potential deployment solutions.FIND OUT MOREPlease download the challenge statement for full details of this opportunity.You can also watch a webinar and Q &amp; A session with the challenge owner for more information and details of how to apply.<iframe class="ql-video" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="true" src="https://player.vimeo.com/video/764546941/"></iframe>The closing date for applications is Friday 25th November at 12 noon.

Salt concentration measurement

At Sellafield, the birthplace of the UK’s nuclear industry, there are a diverse range of buildings and structures located on a complex site with an area of six square kilometers. Many of these buildings are ageing and effective monitoring and maintenance is fundamental to operating both safely and cost-effectively.The Vitrified Product Store (VPS) was built to store containers of vitrified waste. It is a passively cooled store, using the heat generated by the store contents to draw a cold air stream into the store through a set of cooling air ducts. Sellafield is in a coastal location, so the air surrounding the VPS is humid and salt-laden. The drawn-in air is not conditioned, and therefore the moisture and salt content have the potential to cause corrosion inside the store.The VPS contains a mild steel and stainless steel structure referred to as the Tube Module Assembly (TMA). Man access in the proximity of the TMA is not possible, therefore Sellafield would like to explore different techniques and technologies to allow the remote measurement of salt concentrations on the TMA. This will help to develop an understanding of the corrosion occurring inside the VPS and to inform the design of future storage facilities.

Sellafield Ltd would like to explore techniques and technologies to allow the measurement of salt concentrations within a hazardous environment with constrained access

UAVs in confined spaces challenge statement.pdf

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Challenge AimsAs decommissioning activity on the Sellafield site accelerates, the aspiration is to develop a UAV deployment toolkit that could be tailored to meet the needs of specific challenges as and when they arise. Sellafield are seeking a UAV platform that is capable of:<ul><li>Carrying visualisation equipment</li><li>Deployment through vertical or horizontal inspection ports without the requirement for significant reconfiguration. Ports are typically 140mm in diameter, through concrete up to 1.5m thick</li><li>Providing the operator with its position in real time</li><li>Operating in an entirely consistent and predicable manner in order to build stakeholder confidence</li></ul>Find out morePlease download the challenge statement for full details of this opportunity.You can also watch a webinar and Q &amp; A session with the challenge owner for more information and details of how to apply.<iframe class="ql-video" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="true" src="https://player.vimeo.com/video/763406277/"></iframe> The closing date for applications is Friday 18th November at 12 noon.

Unmanned Aerial Vehicles in confined spaces

There are hundreds of nuclear and non-nuclear facilities which need to be cleaned up on the Sellafield site. Manual decommissioning of Sellafield’s facilities is hazardous for operators and extremely time consuming. Opportunities to undertake decommissioning activities faster, more safely and at a reduced cost are constantly being explored.Sellafield would like to make use of an Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) that can access hazardous facilities whilst carrying a range of sensors and other analytical tools, to facilitate safer and cheaper decommissioning. The aim of this challenge is to develop a UAV modular toolkit that can be easily tailored for deployment in a wide variety of decommissioning scenarios.

Sellafield Ltd would like to support the development of an Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) platform capable of carrying equipment to capture visualisation data, that can be deployed in confined spaces

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Game Changers Technology Talk webinars are aimed at anyone who is interested in technical innovation in the nuclear industry, learning about cutting-edge research developments and understanding how the Game Changers programme helps solve challenges which can’t be met with off-the-shelf solutions.December's webinar featured the following talk:Laser speckle interferometry inspection of reinforced concrete structures - Laser Optical Engineering LtdProfessor John Tyrer, Managing Director of Laser Optical Engineering Ltd, gave a talk about laser speckle interferometry being used to identify subsurface and surface cracks in composites and concrete structures. The equipment used can work on areas up to 1m2 in near real-time and is a non-destructive technique. Results were presented from the successful Game Changers project, set up to identify cracks in concrete beams, mortar and solid walls on the Sellafield site. Quantitative information about the strain energy around the crack now lets technicians begin to identify residual life in the components, helping to determine what repair work needs to be considered.<h2>Watch the recording now:</h2><iframe class="ql-video" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="true" src="https://player.vimeo.com/video/891582539/"></iframe>

December's talk featured the use of laser speckle interferometry to identify subsurface and surface cracks in composite and concrete structures. Recording available.

Technology Talk webinar December 2023

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Game Changers Technology Talk webinars are aimed at anyone who is interested in technical innovation in the nuclear industry, learning about cutting-edge research developments and understanding how the Game Changers programme helps solve challenges which can’t be met with off-the-shelf solutions.Scroll down for a link to a recording of this month's talks which featured:<h2>The creation, development and future of the FIRMArm modular equipment deployment device</h2>Access is a common issue in the nuclear decommissioning industry. Hazardous environments and hard-to-reach areas and buildings need to be inspected using safe, accurate and repeatable methods.Sheffield-based FIRMA Engineering have created FIRMArm, a flexible and cost-effective platform for use in the nuclear industry and beyond. The portable, easy-to-assemble, modular system can be tailored to each application, with quick assembly and no lifting equipment required. The segmented arm itself, which can extend more than 7m into a cell, can be fitted with an array of end-effectors, such as cameras, radiation monitors, suction devices and 3D scanners. The device is also able to deliver existing instruments and tools to remote locations, in a precise and stable manner.The FIRMArm talk will tell the story of development, from genesis to the present day, as well as touching on future work in the pipeline.<h2>Groundwater and contaminant passive flux estimates</h2>In this talk, Andy Gillett will outline the work conducted by GHD, in collaboration with Cavendish Nuclear, iFLUX and Sellafield, to help refine future groundwater remediation requirements at the Sellafield site.Conventional monitoring techniques of groundwater typically rely on a snapshot ‘spot monitoring’ approach, which may not fully represent groundwater conditions. This can result in a limited understanding of overall solute distribution and transport, leading to inefficient risk assessment and unsuitable remediation plans.Solute mass flux measurements can provide a technically more robust approach to assessing solute transport within groundwater. In this Game Changers funded project, GHD, in collaboration with Cavendish Nuclear, iFLUX and Sellafield, tested a new device using groundwater optimised to specific contaminants of concern. The innovative, simple, disposable device, which is left in-situ, has the potential to provide estimates of groundwater and contaminant flux using the existing borehole network at Sellafield.Key findings from the research conducted as part of this collaboration, along with comparisons to traditional methods and learning points, will be described in this talk.<h2>Watch the recording now:</h2><iframe class="ql-video" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="true" src="https://player.vimeo.com/video/838719448/"></iframe><h2>﻿</h2>

This month's talks featured the FIRMArm modular deployment device; and groundwater monitoring using passive flux. Recording available.

Technology Talk webinar June 2023

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If you missed this month's talks and would like to catch up, there's a recording link available at the bottom of this page.Use of near-infrared photo spectrometry to identify and quantify organic compounds at distance and in restricted access locations - I﻿mperial College LondonDuring POCO operations, there is a growing need to identify organic compounds in liquids, cruds, and other solids. In particular, the detection of Tributyl Phosphate (TBP), Dibutyl Phosphate (DBP) and Odourless Kerosene (OK). The analysis of these compounds is often complicated due to the limited access to their location. Commonly, the liquids and solids of interest are located within vessels whose only access is via narrow, long lengths of pipework.Imperial College has developed a novel near-infrared spectrometry with miniaturised probes and extended fibre optic cables. This system allows at distance analysis of most organic compounds of interest (including TBP, DBP and OK). The probe and fibre optic cable can pass through pipes as narrow as 15mm ID over distances of at least 20m.The system can also be used to identify the presence and location of immiscible layers in vessels such as pneumercators.This talk will demonstrate how the novel NIR system can be deployed and used to characterise organic compounds during POCO operations.Contaminated concrete removal using controlled heat-induced spalling - The U﻿niversity of SheffieldIn this talk a team of researchers from The University of Sheffield will discuss the work undertaken within the Proof of Concept phase of the Game Changers project “Contaminated concrete removal using controlled heat-induced spalling”. The project proposes a novel approach to remove layers of contaminated concrete, using heat-induced spalling of concrete as the driving mechanism. Traditionally seen as an uncontrolled and undesirable mechanism in structural fire engineering, heat-induced spalling is here exploited to induce and control the removal of the contaminated concrete layer.Jointly funded by Sellafield Ltd and Dounreay Site Restoration Ltd, The University of Sheffield’s proof of concept project focussed on understanding the main challenges, advancing the proposed technology and producing a prototype system.The talk will outline the proposed technology, highlight scientific and technological challenges and discuss opportunities for further development.<iframe class="ql-video" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="true" src="https://player.vimeo.com/video/813243916/"></iframe>

This month's talks featured near-infrared photo spectrometry and contaminated concrete removal

Game Changers lunchtime Technology Talks March 23

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To view the presentations from the event please click on the links below:<a href="https://www.gamechangers.technology/static/u/Robin.pdf" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">The Importance of Robotics and Innovation in Nuclear Decommissioning</a>- Robin Ibbotson, Chief Technology Officer, Sellafield Ltd and Chris Ballard,Robotics and AI Programme Manager, Sellafield Ltd<a href="https://www.gamechangers.technology/static/u/Nottingham.pdf" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">COBRA: Industrial to Medical Surgery</a>- Abdelkhalik Mohammed Assistant Professor in Mechatronics, University of Nottingham<a href="https://www.gamechangers.technology/static/u/AWS.pdf" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Build for the Future: Cloud Innovation for the Nuclear Industry Amazon Web Services (AWS)</a>- Maria King, Account Manager, AWS&nbsp;<a href="https://www.gamechangers.technology/static/u/Game%20Changers%20WS.pdf" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Game Changers - a success story</a>- Frank Allison, CEO FIS360 Ltd James Hill, Director, Eadon Consulting Ltd Alex Allen, Technical Lead, Sellafield Ltd<a href="https://www.gamechangers.technology/static/u/Game%20Changers%20Challenge.pdf" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Launch of Game Changers challenge Asset Inspection Through 19mm Diameter Access Ports</a>- David Hargreaves, Technical Specialist, Sellafield Ltd Stephen Israel, Spent Fuel Management Technical, Sellafield Ltd Karim Bahou, Project Manager, FIS360 LtdAutonomous Sort and Segregation of Nuclear Waste:<a href="https://www.gamechangers.technology/static/u/Barrnon.pdf" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Barrnon Ltd</a><a href="https://www.gamechangers.technology/static/u/Atkins.pdf" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Atkins Ltd</a><a href="https://www.gamechangers.technology/static/u/RAI%20Event%20Programme%20F.pdf" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">VIEW THE FULL EVENT PROGRAMME AND AGENDA</a>About this event&nbsp;Join us to connect with the robotics and AI community, learn about the latest advancements in the sector and hear from inspirational keynote speakers from diverse industries. Through engaging discussions and hands-on insights, we will highlight how far we have come, the current challenges we are facing, and where we want to go as a community to make technology better for a safer world.&nbsp;&nbsp;What to expect:&nbsp;&nbsp;<ul><li>Stimulating panel discussions with leaders in the fields of robotics, AI and innovation&nbsp;</li><li>Inspirational exhibits&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</li><li>The launch of a new Game Changers challenge</li></ul>And of course, the chance to network with local and national businesses as well as academics working on new and novel solutions for robotics and AI in extreme environments.&nbsp;Event programmeThe agenda, speaker profiles, floor plan, list of exhibitors and descriptions of the workshops and breakout sessions can be viewed in the <a href="https://www.gamechangers.technology/static/u/RAI%20Event%20Programme%20F.pdf" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">full event programme</a>

Bringing together businesses, engineers and academics focussed on the development of robotics and AI solutions, the event will encourage cross-sector collaborations and stimulate ideas and future innovation

Robotics and AI for extreme environments

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This month's talks will feature in-situ solid, liquid and gas analysis using Raman spectroscopy and super absorbent polymers as sub-surface seals

Lunchtime Technology Talk webinar Nov 22

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Tuesday 12th - Thursday 14th JulyNewcastle Race Course, Gosforth, Newcastle upon TyneUnderstanding and proactively managing asset health in the water and nuclear industries is becoming increasingly important. Assets are ageing, demands are increasing and the pressure to keep customer costs low can take away focus on long term industry planning.Join us on this asset health sprint with colleagues from the water and nuclear sectors where we will combine our knowledge on the here and now, and build on this to develop solutions for the future.<a href="https://www.innovationfestival.org/the-festival/sprints/Jacobs/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">REGISTER NOW</a>We'll be focussing on three different topics over the course of the event. You can join us for just one, or all three.Interested organisations will be invited to pitch their ideas at the end of each day. The best ideas will be put forward for Game Changers and Northumbrian Water funding consideration.Day 1, 12 JulyMEASUREMENT AND MONITORING OF ASSET HEALTHHow do we measure and monitor the health of our long life (environmental), medium life (civil structures and pipes) and short life (mechanical and electrical) assets? How do we do this in best value way? How do we take a holistic system view?Day 2, 13 JulyPREDICTING AND FORECASTING FUTURE ASSET HEALTHHow might we predict (shorter term) and forecast (longer term) the future health of our assets to aid decision making? What interventions should we make and when is the best time to make these? How do we take a holistic system view?Day 3, 14 JulyCOMMUNICATING INSIGHTS OF CURRENT AND FUTURE ASSET HEALTHHow can we create a picture of asset health across the system which is useful for all stakeholders including operators, planners, the board, customers and regulators?<a href="https://www.gamechangers.technology/static/u/Robotics%20test%202.pdf" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Agenda</a>

We are delighted to be working with Northumbrian Water in conjunction with Jacobs to launch an&nbsp;asset health sprint&nbsp;at the Northumbrian Water Innovation Festival.Tuesday 12th - Thursday 14th JulyNewcastle Race Course, Gosforth, Newcastle upon Tyne

Asset health sprint with Northumbrian Water

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If you missed this webinar you can catch up by watching the recording below.Remote access in hazardous environments - James Hill, Eadon ConsultingREACH is a high payload capacity, modular system for long-range mapping, data collection and tool deployment in hazardous environments. Offering a reusable and configurable toolkit that can be adapted to suit different instruments, tools and environments. REACH improves efficiency and safety whilst reducing deployment preparation time and cost.Remote scabbling technology for the decommissioning of legacy ponds - Colin Bickersteth, Barrnon Barrnon’s remote scabbling technology has been developed through Game Changers with the aim of allowing the efficient remote decommissioning of legacy ponds at nuclear sites such as Dounreay and Sellafield. The concrete removal head allows the dry retrieval of 50mm depth contaminated concrete from walls or floors in a single pass. It also fully suppresses dust and retrieves the waste via a vacuum to a collection drum. The cutting head is deployed via a hydraulic ROV meaning that it removes operatives from the radioactive work area.<iframe class="ql-video" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="true" src="https://player.vimeo.com/video/726768229/"></iframe>

Details of the latest Game Changers Technology Talks session

This month's talks featured a high payload capacity, modular access system for hazardous environments and remote concrete scabbling technologyRecording available

Lunchtime Technology Talk webinar

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Join us for ice-cream and innovation at the Rosehill Theatre in Whitehaven. Create new connections and learn about cutting edge technology, as well as complex challenges within nuclear. The event will include demos and exhibitions, lightning talks and bookable meeting slots.<a href="https://www.gamechangers.technology/static/u/Final%20programme%202.pdf" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">View event programme</a>.Registration is via Eventbrite <a href="https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/230219240947" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Sign up here.</a>

Join us for ice-cream and innovation at the Rosehill Theatre. An event for challenge owners and innovators to spark new ideas and collaborations.

Game Changers Innovation Festival

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Game Changers Technology Talks are aimed at anyone who is interested in technical innovation in the nuclear industry, learning about cutting-edge research developments and understanding how the Game Changers programme helps solve challenges which can’t be met with off the shelf solutions.This month's webinar featured:Rob Sharratt, Remote Maintenance SystemsThe hazardous and congested environments combined with difficult access, mean that decommissioning and dismantling radioactive nuclear cells and gloveboxes is a complex task.&nbsp;Manual decommissioning is hazardous for the operator and extremely time consuming and therefore the development of an effective remote deployment capability may facilitate safer, cheaper decommissioning and reduce secondary waste generation.RMS is developing a ground-breaking Modular Tube Deployment System (MTDS) to enable access to hazardous nuclear environments efficiently and effectively, while keeping human operatives safely out of harm. The MTDS is a flexible modular solution that can reach diverse different areas within a hazardous environment via an entry point in the roof.&nbsp;Tools and equipment (up to 5kg in mass) can then be deployed into these areas via it, while the operator remains safely outside the area. It is made up of tubes and joints, connected in a series, assembled, and connected from outside the hazardous area using a deployment system.&nbsp;&nbsp;Flexibility of reach comes via the joints which allow +/- 30 degrees of articulation in 10-degree increments.&nbsp;It is infinitely and easily adaptable.&nbsp;&nbsp;In this talk, Rob will provide an outline of the functionality of the MTDS, its possible uses and the staged process of development from initial concept idea through to full scale prototype.&nbsp;Sabrina Shirazi, NNUF Hot RoboticsThe National Nuclear User Facility for Hot Robotics (NNUF-HR) is an EPSRC funded programme. It assists UK academia and industry to deliver ground-breaking, impactful research into the use of robotics and AI&nbsp;in extreme environments, by providing opportunities to access cutting-edge equipment and expertise. The aim of the NNUF-HR is to support the UK ambition for more cost-effective decommissioning, nuclear new-build, advanced modular fission reactors and future fusion powerplants. Sabrina will share the facilities available via Hot Robotics and how you can access them.If you missed this month's Technology Talks you can catch up by watching the recording below:<iframe class="ql-video" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="true" src="https://player.vimeo.com/video/670205211/"></iframe>

Find out about facilities available to you via NNUF hot robotics and hear about the development of a Modular Tube Deployment System, in response to the Game Changers working at heights challenge. Recording available.

January Tech Talk

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If you missed this month's Technology Talks you can catch up by watching the recording below.<iframe class="ql-video" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="true" src="https://player.vimeo.com/video/534376788/"></iframe>From oil well plugs to nuclear seals: successful technology transfer through Game ChangersProfessor Bob Eden, Rawwater Engineering Company LtdAging facilities require unique solutions for life extension and repair. Rawwater’s Molten Metal Manipulation (M3) technology for the nuclear industry can seal large openings or fill micron-sized cracks or pores, preventing fluid leakage.Key unique aspects when compared to other repair technology include reversibility, reapplication and zero curing time. M3 alloys are deployed using kinetic spray techniques or by pressure displacement – technology in development and testing.In this talk, Bob explained the journey Rawwater have embarked upon from their oil and gas heritage, through the Game Changers programme, to an ongoing nuclear offering and beyond.Commercialising Game Changers technology: introducing our Innovation ForumDr Stuart Brown, FIS360 LtdA new initiative is being developed to support the scaling and commercialisation of Game Changers technology. The Game Changers Innovation Forum will provide an opportunity to create connections between organisations receiving funding through the Game Changers process, and the rest of the nuclear supply chain.In this talk, Stuart described how the forum will facilitate commercial relationship development between Game Changers project partners and large supply chain companies, Site Licence Companies, other global nuclear operators and with Game Changers alumni. He also highlighted opportunities for involvement.

An introduction to the new Game Changers Innovation Forum and a successful technology transfer journey from the oil and gas sector to nuclear innovation featured in this month's talksRecording available

March Technology Talk webinar

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Multiple technology demonstrations and a virtual simulation at the Engineering Centre of Excellence in Cumbria marked the culmination of four <a href="https://www.gamechangers.technology/challenge/Asset_inspection_through_19mm_diameter_access_ports" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 255);">restricted-access remote inspection</a> feasibility projects. In just 12 weeks, working prototypes designed to access and inspect size-constrained and light-limited areas have been built and tested. It is hoped that this technology will offer a step-change improvement for Sellafield Ltd in the visual inspection of long and congested areas of ductwork and adjoining areas.In order to address one of the main constraints faced by this potential technology, an inactive demonstration was staged in low light conditions to assess the quality of images provided by the prototypes, with the dimensions of the equipment determined separately.Results of the Extending the Clear View project, trialling the use of commercially available mobile phone camera sensors, were demonstrated by Design Driven Solutions. Warrington-based ICE9 Robotics showcased the outputs of two projects: the Periscopic project makes use of a small, modular, access port imaging inspection device, while Camdroid looks at extending the range of mobile phone cameras through 19mm access ports. The Ultra-High Resolution Imaging Camera for small diameter ports from Jacobs was presented using designs and a simulation of the inspection system.Stephen Israel, Spent Fuel Management Technical at Sellafield Ltd, said “It has been fantastic to see how ideas and diagrams have been translated into demonstrable prototypes in just 12 weeks. The applicants have all produced amazing work as part of the feasibility studies, and the team at FIS360 have ensured that the project as a whole has run smoothly with no issue whatsoever.”An announcement regarding ongoing funding and further development of these solutions is expected shortly.&nbsp;

Multiple technology demonstrations and a virtual simulation at the Engineering Centre of Excellence in Cumbria mark the culmination of four restricted-access remote inspection feasibility projects.

Collective demonstration underlines achievements of remote inspection projects

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Following impressive results at <a href="https://www.gamechangers.technology/news/Water_industry_technology_holds_promise_for_Sellafield" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">feasibility</a> stage, Sunderland-based CC Informatics has been awarded further Game Changers funding for its remote visual inspection AI technology, locating and identifying structural and building defects on the Sellafield site.AssetScan, originally developed for surveying masonry in the water industry, has been adapted for use on concrete, cladding and steel structures more commonly found on nuclear sites. Visual inspection data is used to build a photogrammetric 3D model, which is then overlaid with AI-processed survey images. Further processing then enables any detected defects or deterioration to be measured.In this next stage of testing and development, CC Informatics will trial its product on different structures, as well as on specific defect types, identifying changes over time using repeat surveys throughout the year. Results will be highlighted using an interactive portal, providing users with multiple ways of looking at the data and gaining useful insights.​It is hoped that this flexible, cross-sector solution can be used to help monitor on-site assets at Sellafield and across the wider NDA estate, as part of ongoing decommissioning efforts. The Proof of Concept project is expected to conclude next year.

Sunderland-based CC Informatics awarded further Game Changers funding for its remote visual inspection AI technology, locating and identifying structural and building defects on the Sellafield site.

Remote visual inspection technology to help identify structural defects

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A Dublin-based technology firm specialising in state-of-the-art asset monitoring solutions has been awarded Game Changers funding for a 6-month proof of concept project.Using technology created for environmental monitoring in other sectors, PRAM will develop an IoT device that integrates radar, temperature and humidity sensors, and a microphone in order to understand environmental conditions within ventilation ducting and highlight any potential corrosion.The radar element of the device emits a&nbsp;radar wave which when returned to the sensor can suggest changes in surface properties to help operators remotely assess and predict the development of corrosion inside ventilation ducts. The microphone provides an indication of changes in the HEPA filtration system, using differences in pitch as an early warning sign of potential clogging or failure of the filters.Stephen McNulty, Founder of PRAM, said “We are delighted to be awarded this prestigious funding to develop a new ventilation monitoring technology platform for the Sellafield site. Our technology is ideal for long-term, mission-critical, condition intelligence applications.”Mike Parrish,&nbsp;Lead System Engineer at Sellafield Ltd, said “Ventilation systems play a key role in the nuclear industry in keeping people, plant and the environment safe, both on- and off-site, often beyond the operational use of the building. Long-term condition monitoring of these assets is therefore of critical importance to us and colleagues in the wider nuclear industry. The PRAM technology appears well suited to our requirements, and we look forward to validating the solution.”Fifteen devices are planned to be built ready for an inactive demo as part of the project, which is expected to conclude in the spring.

Dublin-based technology firm has been awarded funding to develop integrated IoT duct monitoring device.

Game Changers is an innovation programme which finds solutions for complex nuclear industry challenges.We work with organisations of all sizes, across all sectors, to identify and develop the most promising technologies.

Game Changers is an innovation programme which finds solutions for complex nuclear industry challenges.

We work with organisations of all sizes, across all sectors, to identify and develop the most promising technologies.