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Above: Autonomous construction robots bring robotics precision to highly complex utility construction sites.Robotic road construction and excavation system wins 2021 RBR50 award
Ali Asmari, Director of Project Management, ULC Technologies
In recent years, the field-deployed robot market has experienced significant growth, primarily due to advances in sensor technology, processing power, and hardware efficiency. These technological advances are making it increasingly feasible and meaningful to develop robotic solutions to automate everyday repetitive tasks. The energy industry stands to benefit greatly from these innovations. Currently, much of the repair and maintenance work in this field is performed by human operators, often in hazardous environments. By harnessing the power of AI and robotics, we can develop tools that can perform these tasks more safely and efficiently. This transition not only promises improved worker safety and welfare, but also aims to improve operational efficiency and reliability in the maintenance and repair of energy infrastructure.
Who are you and what do you do?
ULC Technologies is a leader in the development and deployment of innovative robotics solutions and technologies for the utilities, energy, and industrial sectors. We specialize in creating advanced robotic systems, AI-driven solutions, and smart inspection technologies designed to improve operational efficiency, reduce environmental impact, and minimize disruption to the public. Masu. Our wide range of products includes solutions for pipeline inspection, infrastructure automation, and utility management that address modern industry challenges while ensuring operational safety and reliability. improve. This includes developing robots that crawl along power lines to delivering autonomous construction robots to utility partners.
Typical robotics engineering companies typically just build robots. Why does a robotics company need a field service department?
ULC Technologies recognizes the special nature of robotic operations, which often require highly trained operators with special safety and operational training. Our field service department is essential because many of our innovative robotic solutions require expert attention that our customers don't have the capacity to manage. This division allows us to maintain a fleet of robotic platforms and employ skilled operators who can effectively deploy these technologies in the field, providing customers who do not wish to own and manage such assets themselves. We can provide full-service solutions. However, for clients interested in owning a robot platform, we also offer services to build these robots, train personnel, and ensure they are fully equipped to meet the needs of their specific industry. These two approaches allow us to meet the needs of a wide range of customers and increase the accessibility and effectiveness of our robotic solutions in the field.
Above: ULC's CISBOT robot fleet remotely seals leaky pipes under roads in New York City, Boston, London, and other areas.
In recent years, ULC Technologies has been making a serious move away from the pipeline market. What are some other challenges your team is working on?
While our team has certainly expanded beyond the basic pipeline market, we continue to maintain a strong presence in this space with underground gas asset inspection and remediation services. We are increasingly cooperating with a number of customers to develop solutions aimed at the energy sector, in particular to support the expansion and development of renewable energy sources. This strategic shift has been primarily driven by public and private initiatives aimed at accelerating grid expansion and integrating more renewable energy resources. These efforts are in line with global trends towards sustainable energy solutions and reflect our commitment to innovations that support a greener future. We call it responsible innovation.
Prototype of power line crossing robot developed for Meta
A machine developed for Con Edison to automate repair work on medium voltage power lines.
How does ULC Technologies ensure a smooth transition between prototype and commercial robotics solutions?
At ULC Technologies, the transition from prototype to commercial robotics solutions is managed through strategic partnerships with both private and public companies within the industry. Throughout the development process, we collaborate with these partners and subject matter experts to ensure that our solutions align with existing industry standards and processes. This collaborative approach ensures that once a proof of concept is developed and validated in the field, scaling up to commercial deployment is a seamless process.
What advice would you like to share for companies looking to start developing bespoke robotic systems?
For companies looking to develop bespoke robotic systems, vital advice from ULC Technologies focuses on the importance of thoroughly understanding the problem. Before embarking on a full development project with a robotics partner, it is important to define and understand the specific problem that needs to be addressed. At ULC Technologies, we prioritize working closely with our customers to define the problem and assess the feasibility of robotic solutions. This fundamental step ensures that development efforts are precisely targeted and that the resulting robotic systems are highly effective and tailored to the client's unique needs and challenges. It is this strategic approach that sets the stage for effective and effective robotic solutions.
About ULC technology:
ULC Technologies partners with leading companies in the construction, energy and industrial sectors to develop bespoke technologies that can be deployed in the field, from robotic systems and autonomous technologies to remote inspection solutions and machine learning. For more information, please visit https://ulctechnologies.com/partner-in-innovation/.
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