Robotics in Substation Environments

This project will develop a robot system for
a specific National Grid substation and explore the opportunities for use in managing the
substation assets. The robot will navigate autonomously and provide support for different
types of inspection tools: visual camera, infrared camera, and UV camera for partial
discharge. Data fusion algorithms will be required to combine the information given by
these inspection tools.
The robot will be able to perform autonomous and non-autonomous tasks to supervise
and interact with different instruments in the substation. In autonomous mode, the robot
will use machine learning techniques to identify anomalous behaviour. Teleoperation from
the control room will also be possible using communications with appropriate levels of
security. Augmented reality and haptic tools will be developed to ensure that the
operator is able to complete the required task with minimum training.