Game Changers feasibility projects deliver ground-breaking solutions for Sellafield's UAV in confined spaces challenge

UAV innovations revolutionise hazardous facility access for faster, cheaper and safer decommissioning

In an impressive display of innovation, three pioneering SMEs recently showcased ground-breaking Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) technology. heliguy™, Headlight AI and Ice Nice Ltd responded to Sellafield’s call for cutting-edge drone technology to help characterise difficult to access areas. After receiving Game Changers feasibility funding, the three SMEs customised existing drone technology to develop bespoke solutions capable of deployment through extremely small access ports.  

The 12-week feasibility projects culminated in successful demonstrations inside a mock nuclear cell at Sellafield’s Centre of Excellence.

Karim Bahou, Game Changers Project Manager said: “The achievements of these innovative SMEs in only 12 weeks cannot be underestimated. Just being able to develop bespoke drones with custom electronics and custom sensors in this time frame would have been impressive. The fact that they’ve also produced and demonstrated drones that can overcome really challenging size and communication constraints is pretty amazing.” 

The UAV in confined spaces challenge published earlier this year through Game Changers called for cutting-edge drone technology capable of accessing hazardous facilities while carrying a range of sensors and analytical tools. It is anticipated that ongoing funding for further Proof of Concept development will be announced shortly, enabling optimisation of the drone technology with the ultimate goal of deploying UAVs on site in active facilities.

Click here to watch a video showcasing the UAV demonstration