A research team from the United Arab Emirates University (UAEU) has been granted a patent from the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) for the design of an advanced system of transformable smart robots specifically designed to inspect and maintain subsurface pipes using swarm technology.
The team included Dr. Fadi Al-Najjar, a specialist in human-centered artificial intelligence and neurorobotics; Dr. Walid Ahmed, an expert in additive manufacturing and mechanical engineering; Amjad Al-Hassan, a master’s student and research assistant in mechanical engineering; and technical engineer Muthanna Ahmed Aziz.
The system relies on a group of small robots capable of coordinating with each other using a mechanism inspired by the behavior of ants and bees. Tasks are distributed automatically, and the robots react in real time to environmental challenges.
enhancing inspection and maintenance efficiency and reducing the need for human intervention or external excavation.
Dr. Fadi Al-Najjar explained that smart robots were developed to operate within an interconnected group structure that communicates with each other and adapts to complex environments, representing a qualitative leap in pipeline network management and maintenance technologies, especially in challenging environments.
He pointed out that this system will contribute to reducing operational costs, limiting breakdowns, and reducing pollution rates resulting from leaks, in addition to extending the life of vital infrastructure.
He emphasized that this innovation reflects UAEU’s support for applied scientific research and represents a qualitative scientific advance that strengthens its role as a leading center in the fields of artificial intelligence, robotics, and sustainable engineering. He noted that the team aspires to continue developing new innovations that support sustainability and serve the knowledge economy.
source/content: wam.ae (headline edited)
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SABU DHABI, UNITED ARAB EMIRATES