T-Mobile has been working with InDro Robotics in a bid to make the world safer through improved connectivity for industrial inspection robots, the company said. The firm said trials have been successfully completed using T-Mobile 5G to remotely connect and operate Indro Robotics’ ground-based industrial inspection robots, testing security and inspection capabilities at electrical substations.
According to a statement, InDro Robotics’ Sentinel was chosen by the Electric Power Research Institute (EPRI) to evaluate ground-roving robotics based on its ability to provide 24-hour substation asset inspection and security monitoring.
Sentinel ran constant surveillance while streaming all data back to maintenance teams in near real-time using a custom integrated 5G router connected to T-Mobile’s network. The rover was able to follow preset paths while running autonomously and was remotely controlled by operators over 5G, the statement noted.
In October 2021, the world’s first intelligent painting robot for the construction industry was showcased at Gitex Technology Week. In July 2022, Paul Wallett, Regional Director of Trimble Solutions, Middle East and India told Middle East Construction News (MECN) that AI in construction will save lives.
“Like most robotics, the Sentinel requires an ultra-reliable network with low latency, and T-Mobile 5G proves to be more than capable,” said John Saw, EVP of Advanced & Emerging Technologies at T-Mobile.
He added, “The possibilities to use 5G in ways that keep people safe, make life easier and help businesses save money are endless. And we’ve barely scratched the surface of what’s possible.”
Due to its thermal camera, depth sensor and 30x zoom capabilities, InDro Robotics’ Sentinel rover can read and report on gauge levels while monitoring for abnormalities like fluctuating component temperatures, intruders, wildlife hazards and more. This can be recorded and sent back to maintenance teams almost instantly, meaning fewer roll outs, quicker responses and increased on-site safety.
Late in July 2022, Ibrahim Imam, Co-Founder, Group-Co-CEO, CEO MENA & APAC at PlanRadar said robotics, AI, and IoT can alter the business model and make the process of project completion more efficient. In September 2022, His Highness Sheikh Hamdan launched the Dubai Robotics and Automation Program.