Novel Wall Climbing Robot For Ship Inspection & Maintenance Wins ClassNK Endorsement

A revolutionary wall-climbing robot made especially for steel structures has been introduced by Mitsui O.S.K. Lines, Ltd. (MOL), Sumitomo Heavy Industries, Ltd. (SHI), and MOL Ship Management Co., Ltd. (MOLSHIP).

This robot, precisely designed to support ship inspection and maintenance activities, has passed a demonstration test, reaching a key milestone.

The extraordinary accomplishment has earned the coveted Nippon Kaiji Kyokai (ClassNK) “Innovation Endorsement Certification,” demonstrating its innovative spirit and ability to change maritime operations.

The robot is distinguished by its remarkable agility and unmatched ability to navigate uneven terrain, curved surfaces, and vertical surfaces. It can easily reach high-altitude areas previously thought unreachable by people or other robotic systems.

Its superior imaging capabilities allow it to snap crisp photos and precisely inspect crucial regions.

The robot’s adaptability is further demonstrated by its amazing 0.01mm accuracy when measuring the thickness of steel plates remotely.

This groundbreaking feature reduces the inherent risks of working at heights and eliminates the need for costly scaffolding, resulting in significant labour and infrastructural savings.

Its versatility also makes it possible to operate in restricted spaces, protecting crew members from the possibility of oxygen shortage.

Video Credits: MOL/YouTube

The rigorous demonstration test, conducted under ClassNK’s supervision, validated the robot’s efficacy in various operational scenarios, including navigating corners, acquiring detailed wall inspection images, and accurately measuring plate thickness—an achievement previously impossible with conventional robotics.

The robot has received recognition from ClassNK for its technological brilliance and inventive performance in ship inspection, earning it the prestigious Innovation Endorsement accreditation in the “Product & Solution” category.

This recognition highlights its vital contribution to developing maritime technologies and enabling safer, more effective transportation practices.

The success of the demonstration test has boosted MOL, MOLSHIP, and SHI’s collective capabilities in ship operation, management, and robotic research.

Their coordinated efforts aim to improve the robot’s performance and functionality while using precise data insights to support digital transformation objectives.

The certification marks the beginning of a new age of technological breakthroughs intended to support the sustainability and safety of maritime operations, which is in line with ClassNK’s commitment to supporting innovation within the maritime industry.

These industry giants hope to improve lives and workplaces by promoting innovative projects like the wall-climbing robot and bringing a better maritime transportation future.

Reference: MOL, ClassNK

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