
As Ontario Power Generation (OPG) prepares to decommission its nuclear power plant in Pickering over the next decade, ensuring the process is safe for both the environment and communities is critical. Ontario Tech University researchers are partnering with OPG and RMUS Canada to test Spot – a four-legged robot – that will help bolster the safety of the nuclear maintenance program at OPG.
Through the program, university researchers will leverage machine learning and artificial intelligence to analyze the data gathered by Spot and determine if the technology could effectively alert personnel of potential on-site safety hazards. Researchers will also test Spot’s capabilities and limitations to conduct remote inspections of OPG facilities, including both Pickering and Darlington nuclear plants, that may be difficult for humans to access.
According to University Affairs, the findings of the research will have a broad impact across industrial applications with the university sharing its findings with Boston Dynamic (Spot’s designer) and user groups across North America, including New Brunswick Power and Quebec Hydro.
For more information, visit Ontario Tech University.