Autonomous Inspections at a 220kV Power Grid Substation in Inner Mongolia

 

Maintaining the integrity of power grid substations is essential to ensure uninterrupted energy supply, but the challenges of monitoring and inspection in complex environments can be daunting. That’s where advanced robotics comes in. At a 220kV power grid substation in Inner Mongolia, the Unitree B1 quadruped robot has proven itself to be a game-changer, delivering autonomous and intelligent inspections in even the most demanding conditions.

The Challenge

This project primarily took place across outdoor areas of the 220kV and 11kV power distribution systems, the main control room, and the relay protection room. These environments featured obstacles like stairs, ramps, mouse guards, and doors, making manual inspection both time-intensive and hazardous for personnel. The need for reliable, autonomous operations was clear.

The Solution

The Unitree B1 quadruped robot, equipped with cutting-edge technologies, was deployed to meet the unique demands of the site:

• 3D LiDAR System: Enables precise navigation and mapping, allowing the robot to maneuver through complex environments.
• Dual-Light PTZ Camera: Monitors and analyzes instrument data and status in real-time.
• Robotic Arm: Provides the capability to operate switches autonomously, enhancing on-site functionality.
• Wireless Communication Module: Ensures seamless control and real-time monitoring from the central control room.
• Dedicated Charging Station: Allows the robot to recharge autonomously, ensuring uninterrupted operations.

This combination of technologies enabled the robot to handle a wide range of tasks, including:

• Navigating difficult terrain and tight spaces without human intervention.
• Analyzing equipment status and identifying abnormalities in real-time.
• Operating switches as required, adding a layer of operational autonomy.

Real-World Impact

The implementation of the B1 robot transformed inspection processes at the substation. Operators could monitor the robot's activities remotely via the wireless communication module, allowing them to focus on analysis and decision-making rather than manual labor. By autonomously navigating the inspection area and performing tasks like data monitoring and switch operation, the B1 minimized human exposure to potentially dangerous conditions and significantly reduced operational risks.

Expanding the Vision

While this project highlights the B1’s capabilities in the power grid sector, the versatility of Unitree’s robotic solutions makes them ideal for other industries as well:

• Oil and Gas: Autonomous inspection of pipelines, tanks, and hazardous zones.
• Logistics: Monitoring equipment and inventory in large warehouses.
• Energy: Inspection of renewable energy facilities such as wind and solar farms.
• Industrial Facilities: Routine inspections of manufacturing plants, ensuring safety and operational efficiency.

Conclusion

The successful deployment of the B1 quadruped robot at the 220kV power grid substation in Inner Mongolia showcases the future of autonomous inspections. By combining robust hardware with intelligent software, Unitree’s robotic solutions empower industries to enhance safety, efficiency, and productivity.

For more information on the Unitree B1 robot and its applications, visit Robostore.com. As the official US distributor of Unitree Robotics, we’re here to help you transform your inspection processes with cutting-edge technology.