Nisku, Alberta, is a long way from the ocean, but that hasnât stopped Confined Space Robotics (CSR) from contributing to Canadaâs national shipbuilding strategy, thanks to a partnership with British Columbiaâs Seaspan Shipyards.
The $1.5-million contract is part of Seaspanâs commitment as a partner with the federal governmentâs national shipbuilding strategy
On Feb. 12, CSR, which rents, sells, leases, and trains semiautonomous robots designed to replace human labour in confined or dangerous areas, was awarded a $1.5-million contract to develop and deploy abrasive blasting and painting systems at Seaspanâs Vancouver shipyard.
The $1.5 million is part of Seaspanâs commitment as a partner with the federal governmentâs national shipbuilding strategy, a long-term, multi-billion-dollar program to revitalize Canadaâs domestic marine industry. Under the partnership, Seaspan has invested more than $35 million to support research and skills development in the marine industry. Seaspan has so far delivered four ships under the national shipbuilding strategy, with plans to deliver 23.Â
âThis collaboration allows us to integrate our specialized robotic systems into the shipbuilding process, directly improving personal safety and reducing operational risk,â Ahmed Kawar, director of engineering and projects with CSR, said in a statement.
CSRâs technology uses a four-phased approach that incorporates infrared laser sight to map a work environment and autonomously plan the abrasive blasting motion. An operator can preview plans, make changes, and control blasting speed through a handheld remote control.Â
CSRâs robotic deployment will focus on automating blasting and painting operations, which can require working in tight, hard-to-reach environments where hazardous fumes and particulate matter are common.
âUsed in both new shipbuilding and in complex submarine, ship repair and overhaul projects, this project has a goal to make the blast and paint operations more efficient, safer and higher quality across the breadth of our business,â Seaspan stated in a release.
Aside from an impact on health and safety, CSRâs involvement will also enhance Canadaâs shipbuilding supply chain, ensuring more reliance on domestic partnerships. âThis investment strengthens our domestic supply chain, accelerates the adoption of pioneering industrial technologies, and positions Canadian companies to compete and lead in a rapidly evolving global market,â said minister of industry Melanie Joly in early February.
BetaKitâs Prairies reporting is funded in part by YEGAF, a not-for-profit dedicated to amplifying business stories in Alberta.
Feature image courtesy Seaspan ULC on LinkedIn.