Recently, the results of the 2024 "Edison Award" were revealed, with the "Climbing Spider" developed through a collaboration between the Hong Kong Productivity Council (hereinafter referred to as the Productivity Council) and Smart Art Green Lighting Limited winning the Silver Award in the "Innovative Robotics Solutions" category.
"SpiderClimber" Task. Image provided by the Hong Kong Productivity Council.
The "SpiderClimber" is capable of climbing up to thirty-five meters high lamp poles from the ground for inspection. It utilizes a 360-degree camera to examine and record the corrosion condition of lamp poles. Engineers can conduct inspections from the ground, and the results are displayed on a central monitoring system. Additionally, the "SpiderClimber" features a dual insurance design; if the wireless network connection in the air is insufficient, preventing the robot from receiving instructions from ground engineers, it has a backup transmission system to safely return to the ground.
The "SpiderClimber" is Hong Kong's first innovative robot solution for detecting and maintaining rust on lamp poles. It can be applied in various infrastructure scenarios such as airports, bridges, stadiums, highways, and tunnels. Failure to maintain rusted lamp poles in a timely manner can pose significant threats to the safety of both drivers and pedestrians due to metal surface peeling or even collapse. The robot's flexible operation mode eliminates the need for workers to perform high-altitude work, replacing manual inspection work. It also simplifies the traditional road closure application process required for manual inspections, reducing the economic impact and inconvenience caused by road closures.
The "SpiderClimber" previously underwent on-site trials at Hong Kong International Airport, and overseas airports have expressed interest in adopting this technology and initiating technical integration. The core technology used in the development project is expected to be applicable to detection work in other scenarios in the future, including canals, bridges, nuclear power plants, etc., replacing manual inspection work and empowering the upgrading and transformation of more facilities-related traditional industries.
The "Edison Award," known as the "Oscars of the Innovation World" in the science and technology community, was first held in 1987. It aims to recognize outstanding scientific research achievements and products with originality, creativity, and advanced technology, making it one of the most prestigious global science and technology awards. The award is organized by the non-profit organization Edison Universe, dedicated to promoting innovative thinking.
"SpiderClimber" has received another major award from the Productivity Council after winning one silver and two bronze awards in the "Edison Awards" in 2023. It will also make its debut at the "Artificial Intelligence Application Exhibition Hall" to be unveiled by the Productivity Council soon.
