Universities Minister Chris Skidmore visits the UNDT lab
The new Universities and Science Minister Chris Skidmore has seen first-hand how university research on ultrasonics could help to solve some of society’s big challenges, from futuristic robots that could end roadworks to contactless medical procedures.
The MP for Kingswood visited the University of Bristol on Friday 4 January and called on the UNDT lab to learn more about its world-leading ultrasonic research.
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 project, funded by the Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council (EPSRC), is being led by the University of Sheffield, and will see the development of mini robots, capable of inspecting and repairing pipes.
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.
Professor Bruce Drinkwater, of the University of Bristol, said the project would involve around 30 academics, researchers and students at the four universities.
“Here at Bristol, we are developing the sensors that are responsible for navigation, communication between robots and with the base station, and also the detection of leaks, blockages and more subtle damage such as cracking and corrosion,” he said.
“We are absolutely delighted to be involved in this new technology.
“It is also a great topic to talk to people about and enthuse them about engineering.”
Read here the full University press release.
From deploying robots in our pipe network so cutting down traffic delays, to using robots in workplaces to keep people safer, this new technology could change the world we live in for the better. Experts in our top UK universities across the country are well-equipped to develop this innovative new technology.