Osama Tawfik Al-Kusayer, Thamer Mohammad AlShehri, Saud Abdulaziz AlKhaldi
AlRowad School, AlRiyadh, Central, SAUDI ARABIA
Pipe Saving Bot (P.S.B.) is an alternative unmanned solution to inspect, repair and operate offshore and underwater valves and pipes, replacing the traditional SAT diving methods.
PSB uses programmable micro-controller (Parallax or NXT) and eight servo motors assembled to allow PSB to clamp around pipes and climb upward and downward as desired by the operation. The experimental model of PSB used galvanized steel to protect device under water.
The operation of PSB starts by installing it on top of defected pipes with pre-programmed instructions for PSB to climb downward until reaching controlling valves. The PSB then identifies the valve handle and isolates the pipe by turning the valve to closed position.
The current SAT diving methods used for deep under-sea pipes repairs and operations is potentially dangerous (could cause aseptic bone necrosis) and expensive. SAT diving boats equipped for 8-11 divers can cost up to USD 25,000 daily.
PSB was found to be an economical and safer alternative solution for inspecting, operating and repairing water immersed pipes and valves. PSB could also serve as mounting base for pipe advanced inspection devises designed for corrosion and thickness tests.