Prototyping and evaluation of a telerobot for remote inspection of offshore wind farms

Abstract

A telerobot can be used for inspection at a location far from where its user is, i.e. remote inspection. This paper presents the design and implementation of a lab for evaluation of remote inspection, consisting of a telerobot prototype and an environment for it to operate in. Remote inspection can be used in many industries, but we argue that it is especially suitable for offshore wind turbines, since these are large, unmanned and complicated machines at difficult to reach locations. Remote inspection of offshore wind turbines has the potential to reduce the maintenance cost, increase the knowledge of the turbines' condition and the predictability of maintenance. The typical user of remote inspection is expected to have expertise in maintenance, not robotics. Therefore we suggest evaluating remote inspection using usability tests, which consider how easy it is to learn, and use a system for its intended purpose.