How can we remotely inspect and repair submerged structures and equipment at a hydroelectric power plant safely and efficiently?

Challenge Overview

We are seeking innovative technological solutions for the inspection and repair of submerged structures at hydroelectric power plants. The solution must be remotely operated and capable of performing tasks in challenging underwater environments where human safety is a priority.

The objective is to identify technologies that improve the efficiency and safety of operation and maintenance activities while reducing costs and minimizing impacts on power generation. The solution must operate under specific working conditions, including considerable depths and low-visibility environments.

Proposed solutions must be capable of operating under adverse conditions commonly found in river reservoirs, including:

• Logs and Woody Debris: Floating or submerged debris that may obstruct or interfere with operations.
• Presence of Aquatic Macrophytes: Submerged or floating plants that may affect navigation or interfere with sensor functionality.
• Low Visibility: Limited visibility caused by water turbidity or suspended sediment.
• Water Currents: Water flows that may affect the stability or accuracy of operations.
• Variable Local Atmospheric Conditions: Variations in local temperature and pressure, whether in the surrounding environment or within the respective river reservoir.

The solution should increase the efficiency and safety of operation and maintenance activities, reduce costs, and minimize impacts on power generation, even under adverse operating conditions.

Mandatory Requirements

• Remote Control: Ability to operate without direct physical intervention at the inspection or repair location.
• Power Source: Battery-powered operation to provide greater mobility and autonomy.
• Minimum Operating Depth: Ability to withstand pressure equivalent to a depth of at least 100 meters.
• Visual Monitoring: High-resolution video camera for accurate inspection.
• Expandability: Modular design that supports additional accessories or tools for specific repair activities.

Business Impact

The solution will enable inspections and minor repairs in submerged areas of hydroelectric power plants. This capability will support faster responses to equipment unavailability and other underwater incidents, improve maintenance scheduling, reduce asset downtime, and increase operational efficiency.

• Faster Response: Rapid inspection and repair capabilities will reduce the unavailability of submerged assets.
• Operational Safety: Reduced risks to workers by minimizing the need for divers.
• Maintenance Optimization: Improved planning of corrective and preventive maintenance activities based on accurately collected data.
• Greater Power Generation Efficiency: Reduction of interruptions and impacts on power generation at the respective hydroelectric power plants.

Expected Benefits

• Cost Reduction: Lower operational costs associated with underwater inspections and repairs, as well as savings resulting from reduced power generation downtime.
• Extended Asset Lifespan: Detailed monitoring that helps prevent the premature deterioration of submerged structures and equipment.
• Technological Innovation: Application of robotics and automation to improve competitiveness and asset management efficiency.

Submission Deadline

The proposal submission form will remain available until February 2, 2025.

Questions

For questions or additional information, please send an email and include the title of this Challenge in the subject line to innovationgrid@axia.com.br.

 

 

Robotics | Hydroelectric Power Generation | Generative Artificial Intelligence (GenAI) | Asset Management | Underwater Inspection and Repair