Robot for scanning floors at nuclear power plants

Purpose and goal

The objective is to develop a robot that can automatically search for radioactive contamination over at least 80% of the floor area in a typical room in a nuclear power plant. A prototype for testing the navigation has been tested and can navigate autonomously as defined in the project. To go from prototype to finished product including user interface requires more work. The objectives are not fully met, but important milestones that push the project forward have been completed and create a solid foundation continuing with the project.

Expected results and effects

Since the product is not finished, the end result cannot be assessed. The need for a product according to the project objectives is still highly relevant. The project will be pursued further and a number of important milestones towards the final goal have been completed.

Planned approach and implementation

Software development for autonomous navigation has taken much longer than planned. This has meant that user interfaces and other software development have not been completed according to plan. Due to covid restrictions, travel and consultant visits could not be carried out and this has seriously delayed the project. Two identical robots have therefore been developed. One will be sent to the programming consultant and one must be kept by Nutronic for a test run. The project goals are still relevant and the project will be continued with minor adjustments to the plan.