Remote visual inspection technology to help identify structural defects

Following impressive results at feasibility 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.