Robot snake technology scoops sector award

The technology was awarded Best Cross Sector Technology by Game Changers, the nuclear innovation initiative sponsored by Sellafield, in recognition of the engineering team’s achievements in addressing the challenges in nuclear decommissioning.

The snake robot technology has been adapted to be applied to radiation surveys in nuclear hot cells.  Four of these robots have been deployed, contributing to an estimated £5 million in savings for the nuclear industry over the past two years.

The robot is a flexible inspection tool capable of navigating confined and hazardous spaces. It is equipped with cameras, LED lighting, and radiation dosimeters, measuring from 4mm to 40mm in diameter and usually stretching from 3m to 10m in length. It collects vital visual and radiometric data from areas inaccessible to humans. The robot is paving the way for safer and more efficient nuclear decommissioning operations. 

One of the sites it has been used on is Dounreay in Scotland, where it has been adapted to fit through a 30mm gap to investigate a containment-shielded cell. The snake robot is currently undergoing testing at other nuclear sites across the UK to support the sector with radiation surveys.

Dr Xin Dong, Associate Professor at the University of Nottingham, has been involved in the development of snake robots for 14 years. He explains: "The snake robots are controlled like a puppet on wires with a lot of joints, with cables, and you pull to change the orientation. Instead of hands, we can use motors and computers to control snake robots.

“We’re delighted to be recognised for the impact this technology is making in the Nuclear industry, and we hope over the next few years to enable further benefits.”

Alasdair Cairns, Pro Vice Chancellor, Research and Knowledge Exchange at the University of Nottingham said: “This award is a tremendous recognition of Dr Xin Dong and his team’s ability to translate world leading engineering research into solutions with substantial real-world impact. The “snake robot” technology builds on many years of pioneering research in robotics, advanced manufacturing and remote inspection based in our Advanced Manufacturing Building. Its successful transfer into nuclear decommissioning, where four robots have already helped deliver an estimated £5 million in industry savings, demonstrates the exceptional value of sustained investment in research capability, facilities and people. It is an excellent example of how Engineering at Nottingham works across traditional sector boundaries to address complex industrial challenges and deliver tangible benefits for the UK.”

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