AREVA has delivered the first in a new generation of robots, known as RIANA (Robot for Investigations and Assessments of Nuclear Areas), to the French Atomic Energy Commission (CEA). This is a robot for radioactive operations and capable to map areas, take samples or to measure radioactivity.
Robotnik and Tecnalia have collaborated in the development of the robot. Robotnik strengthens its range of mobile robots for applications in the nuclear sector, which also includes a robot for underwater cleaning of the reactor vessel ‘s flange and a robot for cleaning the board of the reactor vessel.
RIANA
RIANA is a motorized platform with interchangeable measurement or sampling modules that can be adapted to the operational situation. Available with four-wheel or caterpillar track drive, this “Swiss army knife” of nuclear robotics is also equipped with 3D and thermal cameras to reconstitute its environment in real time. It also has on-board laser detectors to negotiate its way around obstacles and position itself precisely within a confined space.
RIANA’s Human-Machine Interface (HMI) is based on an innovative technology which facilitates in-zone interventions. Moreover, operations can be executed without necessarily requiring the presence of an operator: an optional guidance program allows the robot to find its own way and to work on a site autonomously. In the event of a signal loss, RIANA is automatically guided back towards its last known location, whether being teleguided by an operator or operating autonomously.
RIANA’s features make it an ideal tool for supporting nuclear dismantling operations, particularly in areas where operator presence is restricted or prohibited.