Drones have been used as alternatives to human workers more and more the past few years. This is either because of safety reasons, efficiency, or they just want an eye in the sky. Companies big and small have opted into using more and more drones.
These flying machines are also there to do work where people cannot usually go. The environment could be unpredictable, or the task requires carrying devices extremely close to dangerous areas.
Take the site of the nuclear power plant in Fukushima, Japan, for instance. Even though it has been years since the earthquake damaged the reactors, it is still a threat. It is still incredibly unwise for workers to come too close or spend time too long in the area.
That is because of the radiation that still exudes from the area of damage.
Drones have been called upon in light of these events in the Fukushima Power Plant. The damage caused by the earthquake in 2011 still has its effects on the grounds.
The United Kingdom has developed a drone that can map out radiation levels with its sensors. They can use this drone to maneuver within the areas of the nuclear power plant without risking human exposure.
Fukushima’s Rise:
Dubbed RISER (Remote Intelligence Survey Equipment for Radiation), this drone is equipped with highly advanced tools. These include a laser-based obstacle avoidance system, which helps the drone maneuver through damaged and irregular areas.
This is necessary as there are certain points in the plant where GPS can be inconsistent, or nonexistent completely. The drone can go deeper into the building compared to its human counterparts.
The radiation sensors come into play after this. Using the tools, the drone can map a 3D definition of what is in front of it.
A Bedford company called Blue Bear was behind the creation of the RISER drone. Createc, however, is the one responsible for the radiation detecting software. The software company hails in Cockermouth, UK.
The RISER drone is incredibly important in the Fukushima area as it can map the radiation while doing so autonomously. This makes RISER a far superior tool compared to previous attempts, as it can both maneuver through the rubble while also being autonomous in its work.
