SmartTouch: Towards Autonomous Subsea Robotics for Underwater Pipeline Inspection
Implementing Organization
Subsea Systems Institute
Overview
DWH Project Funding
$40,000
Known Leveraged Funding
$0
Funding Organization
The U.S. Department of Treasury
Funding Program
The RESTORE Act Funds Bucket 5: Centers of Excellence Research Grant Program
Details
Project Category
Science
Project Actions
Engineering and/or Construction
Targeted Resources
Petroleum
Project Description
While subsea pipelines may be engineered to withstand years of high pressure and high temperatures, unexpected events can prematurely cause failure of pipeline structures. Such events are ideally mitigated by timely maintenance and inspection of subsea pipeline structures. However, such routine actions can be excessively costly and when the divers are involved, the issue of safety becomes a major consideration. The goal of this project is to develop transformative robotic and SmartTouch sensing technology, that will lead to a time efficient and cost effective system for underwater pipeline inspection. Tasks will be to develop SmartTouch sensing, design dexterous robotic manipulator for ROVs, develop force feedback sensing and grasping control, and conduct comprehensive testing.
Contact
Airica Rollins7137436273
aarollins@uh.edu
Project Website
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