Omexom teams explore the world of AI and robotics

Local companies like Vector (working with AI to implement asset automated monitoring and predictive maintenance), Transpower (working with robots for asset inspection), Mercury NZ and Orion NZ (using AI and automated robots and drones for preventative maintenance) are on the cutting edge of digital transformation, and Omexom will not be left behind!

On 28th August, 30 colleagues, including HEB Construction and Mercury Energy, gathered at Robot Rampage in Onehunga to learn about where robotics are at in our industry.  Futurists painted a fascinating picture of where this tech is headed – from microchips implanted in your brain to increase your intelligence one million times, and ubiquitous robotics in our cities performing everyday tasks.

Paul Mumby, a robotics expert, shared with the group how to adopt practical and affordable technologies to create solutions for our unique work environments. Paul explained the difference between micro-computer systems.  He also ran a live demo using Co-Pilot, generating code and setup instructions for a motion sensor that produces an audio instruction.  Local automation robotics experts, Automate X, shared transformational business projects integrating robotics, AI, and smart systems for inventory management and logistics.

Builtscan designed and launched an infrastructure inspection business where they use AI for drone flight planning, data capture and processing.  AI then automates defect analysis and creates 3D digital twins.  Later, Wrybill Robotics shared their experience deploying inspection robotics to a Transpower substation, and Mercury Energy’s Mokai Geothermal plant.

The group were also updated on robotics activities taking place in Omexom France, Actemium, VINCI Construction UK, and Leonard.  Participants shared lively discussions with each other about how the technology they learned about could be deployed in their Perimeters.

The event wrapped up with six teams building their own robots for a robot fighting tournament.  This brought out creativity from the group and high amounts of competitiveness!  Ameya Patki and Corentin Legay (a visitor from Actemium France) won the tournament.  Get in touch with Nicholas.Jaques@omexom.co.nz if you want to see how robotics, automation, or sensors could be applied in your work environment.