Deployments
At RAICo our core objective revolves around end-user-centric deployments, aimed at keeping humans away from harm through the implementation of integrated robotics and AI solutions. This entails a strategic de-risking approach involving user feedback on progressive product deployment. We attain our objective by bringing together futuristic technology developments across all RAICo themes and integrate industry capabilities to ensure the delivery of dependable and reliable results.
RoBox
An example of a successful deployment of remote handling technology is functional testing of a robotic glovebox (RoBox) prototype at Culham (UKAEA), and its subsequent installation at UKAEA’s Material Research Facility (MRF). This work has been delivered in collaboration with AtkinsRéalis, Cyclife Aquila Nuclear and Saffron Science Equipment Ltd.
The RoBox is a robotics integrated glovebox systems designed for the safe handling and secure manipulation of hazardous objects and materials. The key standout feature of the RoBox versus a standard glovebox is the pair of commercial off-the-shelf (COTS) collaborative robots (cobots) installed into the ceiling of the glovebox.
We are currently at a technology trials phase of the RoBox prototype, testing and deploying the tele-operative technique, autonomous capability and digital tools such as centralised graphical user interface and digital mock-ups. This will be followed by prototyping trials at the RAICo1 facility, focussing on use in decommissioning.
Working with industry partners, we aim to deliver a fully automated RoBox to the MRF in 2025. It will allow handling of low-active radioactive samples using complete automated robotic sequences rehearsed in the prototype phase.