Innovative technologies receive funding to enhance asset inspection through small ports

Two groundbreaking projects have been awarded proof of concept funding to advance technology for asset inspection through 19mm ports. This follows a successful feasibility phase, which included impressive demonstrations of prototype technology.

The challenge, launched in early 2023, sought solutions to enable the remote, visual inspection of long, congested duct systems with restricted access through a 19mm bore inspection port. Inspection of this ductwork and the adjoining tank room areas is required to understand more about their condition and the condition of the assets inside.

Camdroid - Ice Nine Ltd and Design Driven Solutions Ltd

The first project to receive further funding, “Camdroid,” is a collaboration between Warrington-based Ice Nine Ltd and Bristol-based Design Driven Solutions Ltd. This project combines the strengths of prototypes demonstrated during the feasibility study into a singular proof of concept. The 11-month study aims to culminate in a comprehensive demonstration of the Camdroid technology.

Accessing confined spaces and conducting visual inspections through small openings is a significant challenge for current commercially available borescopes. These devices often suffer from poor illumination and limited camera sensor quality, leading to unsatisfactory results when visually characterising hazardous infrastructure. Ice Nine Ltd and Design Driven Solutions are addressing this issue by developing an inspection camera capable of providing high-quality images and videos over larger distances through a 19mm access port.

The Camdroid utilises a unique combination of high-powered LEDs and modern sensors, complete with custom articulated movement, to inspect previously inaccessible areas. This compact tool provides high-resolution images and videos, facilitating detailed inspections and offering reassurance regarding the condition of the asset. This capability allows site personnel to perform targeted maintenance and efficient asset management.

Periscopic - Ice Nine Ltd

The second project, “Periscopic”, also spearheaded by Ice Nine Ltd, introduces a novel periscope design for asset inspection. Ice Nine Ltd has been developing an imaging device accessory designed for deployment through 19mm access ports, enabling high-end imaging equipment to remain outside hazardous environments. This reduces the complexity of passing sophisticated devices through small apertures.

The Periscopic device enables visual inspection of confined space hazardous environments that are currently inaccessible to human personnel. By leveraging centuries-old periscope technology in an innovative package, this solution provides a cost-effective answer to the inspection challenge. It also enhances the image resolution capabilities beyond what is currently available with commercial, off-the-shelf endoscopes and borescopes.

Sellafield is supporting the Periscopic project with a proof of concept for a 9-month period.

An inspection of the entire duct system at Sellafield is scheduled for 2025, and it is hoped that these technologies will provide a significant improvement over existing capabilities to meet this deadline.

These advancements mark a promising step forward in the field of asset inspection, potentially transforming how inspections are conducted in confined and hazardous environments.