MP Chris Skidmore is shown the mini robots which will one day be capable of inspecting and repairing pipes
From contactless medical procedures to underground robots detecting pipe damage, the new Universities and Science Minister Chris Skidmore has seen first-hand how futuristic university research could help to solve some of society's big challenges. The MP for Kingswood visited the University of Bristol today [Friday 4 January] to learn more about its world-leading ultrasonic research. He also heard about the University's plans to create a new enterprise campus in the heart of the city, next to Bristol Temple Meads railway station, which will focus on developing technologies which will deliver real-world benefits. The Minister's visit follows an announcement from the Department for Business, Energy & Industrial Strategy confirming that £7 million of government investment will fund mini robots to be used in underground pipe networks. The development of mini robots, capable of inspecting and repairing pipes, is one of the pioneering projects funded by the Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council (EPSRC) as part of the modern Industrial Strategy. Four universities, including Bristol, are working to develop tiny devices around 1cm long that use sensors, navigation and communication systems to detect, report and mend faults in the pipes and eliminate the need for human intervention. Mr Skidmore, who used to teach history part-time at the University of Bristol, was shown a hands-on demonstration of 'ultrasonic array imaging' - the engineering equivalent of ultrasound used on babies - which will be mounted to the robots to look for cracks.
TO READ THIS ARTICLE, CREATE YOUR ACCOUNT
And extend your reading, free of charge and with no commitment.
