Seaspan Shipyards has awarded a contract to Confined Space Robotics (CSR) to develop and integrate semiautonomous robotic systems to enhance shipbuilding processes for blast and paint operations.
Blast and paint operations are integral to Seaspan’s ship and submarine businesses. Used 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.
Under this contract, CSR leverages Canadian expertise and components to develop several products for use on collaborative robot systems, equipping them with specialized tools such as needle scalers, laser ablation systems, grinders, grit-blasters, and spray-coating tools. These systems will be mounted on mobility platforms for manual manoeuvring and will include custom-developed software to control path planning and user operations.
Using robotic systems reduces workplace injury as they are designed to handle highly repetitive tasks in difficult and hazardous environments. This reduces worker exposure to toxic fumes and particles during removal and application of surface coatings, reduces long-term worker injury and strain, and improves the overall work environment.
The robotic systems also contribute to improved quality and consistency in the manufacturing process, while decreasing the environmental impact of the shipbuilding operations. This will be achieved through the development of intelligent path planning systems that optimize material usage and reduce environmental footprint, contributing to Seaspan’s overall environmental goals and sustainable shipbuilding practices.
This $1.5 million investment with CSR is part of Seaspan’s Value Proposition commitment under the National Shipbuilding Strategy.
