A consortium of technology and mechanical/civil engineering companies has announced new details about a “first” robot and artificial intelligence (AI) robotic solution for the installation of machinery and public services in tunnel projects.
ARTIS is a robotic AI prototype for tunneling developed by a consortium of five UK-based organizations. (Image: Andrej Zota/Kostein)
The prototype, named ATRIS (Automated Tunnel Robotic Installation System), is able to autonomously select, locate and install the bracket along the tunnel wall.
“In doing so, automated solutions can reduce the risks associated with manual labor in tunnel face operations and improve health and safety on site,” said one of the companies involved in the venture. said Mr. Costain. “For example; working at height in confined spaces, hand arm vibrations experienced by workers during installation, etc.”
Mr Costain said running these services in tunnels using traditional manual methods could be potentially dangerous and require more labor and time.
“Once fully developed, the final system can be implemented in tunnel construction for various sectors such as transport, water and energy,” Costain added. “It is expected that faster installation will increase productivity by 40%, reduce installation costs for new mechanical and electrical systems by 30%, and reduce construction plant movements by 40% to reduce fixed carbon. Masu.”
Robotic AI tunneling solutions for challenging labor markets
This prototype was also developed to compensate for the challenges posed by the lack of a skilled labor market.
said Steve Nesbitt, chief engineer for the built environment at consortium member Manufacturing Technology Center (MTC). Please address these issues. ”
Nesbitt expects further advances in robotics and automation in the tunneling sector to benefit the global segment.
“We are paving the way for construction companies to deploy technology to better manage and structure field work, making infrastructure delivery safer, more productive and more sustainable. ” he said.
About ARTIS Consortium
A total of five organizations are involved in the development of ATRIS: Costain, MTC, Tunnel Engineering Services (TES), i3D robotics (i3D) and VVB Engineering, with all consortiums headquartered in the UK.
Mr Costain said the 22-month project was partly funded by an Innovate UK smart grant and was led by TES, which developed the initial concept in partnership with the consortium. MTC led the design and manufacturing of the robot's end effector, and i3D developed the visualization software for navigation. Costain and his VVB provided industry knowledge and expertise regarding tunneling and compliance requirements.
Lee Bateson, Costain's mechanical engineering manager and head of robotics, said of the initiative: Contributes to the collaborative spirit of the consortium.
“This is a game-changing technology that will bring significant benefits to our tunneling customers.”
