What is ACWA Robotics?
ACWA Robotics provides robotic solutions for controlling drinking water networks. The project is designed to help water utilities manage their water supply network more efficiently by collecting key data at the very heart of water pipes. This initiative works on optimizing repairs and preventing losses while improving clean water infrastructures worldwide. By developing autonomous amphibious robots, ACWA Robotics maps water pipes in both rural and urban areas and determines the condition of these pipes to plan improvement works and leak prevention. It is a revolutionary approach to managing water supply – innovative, precise, and built for the future…
Main Benefits and Key Figures
- Optimizing renewal budgets
- Reducing maintenance work
- Reducing Non-Revenue Water
- Controlling water price
- 0 BILLION M3 of water lost in water supply networks each year
- 0 BILLION EUROS value of the assets of the drinking water network in France
- 0 YEARS needed for a city to renew its entire network
Key figures reveal the tremendous potential of this project. Every item reflects a commitment to cost efficiency, sustainability, and a forward-thinking strategy that brings critical data and timely insights into water network management.
Revolutionary Robotic Solutions
Developing revolutionary robotic solutions has been the cornerstone of this project. The future of in-line robotics is now autonomous, smart, and flexible, thanks to the breakthrough design seen in Pathfinder. Crafted with precision and rigor, these robots navigate intricate water pipe systems collecting indispensable data. It is exciting technology that merges cutting-edge sensors, high-definition visual cameras, and programmed mission pathways to deliver reliable support to water utilities. Such innovation is not merely technical but also transformative – a clear demonstration that the robotics revolution in water management has already begun…
Fieldwork and Success Stories
Fieldwork plays a crucial role in validating the performance of these state-of-the-art robots. Pathfinder, the project’s first solution, has already been tested in real-world conditions. Its first prototype was sent to locate and assess the condition of a pipe for one of ACWA’s partner utilities. Geared up with an HD visual camera and distance sensors, it was programmed to cover a set mission path and collect key data seamlessly. The successful field mission, executed with precision you can almost hear the hum of the machinery, stands as a testament to the practical effectiveness of robotic-driven water network management.
Latest News and Milestones
The project’s momentum has been fueled by several significant milestones and noteworthy developments. A successful first mission for the Pathfinder robot on the Dunkirk water network underlines concrete progress, evidenced in collaboration with partners like SUEZ and Agence. Adding to the excitement, a €4.8M financing round rolling in 2024 promises to accelerate deployment even further. Since July 2023, the technical team has been testing Pathfinder under severe conditions at the Provence Canal Company. These achievements, paired with continuous advancements, keep the narrative dynamic and ever-evolving – a steady stride toward reshaping water network management.
Project Impact on Sustainable Development Goals
- SDG 6: Clean Water and Sanitation – Improved water management and leak prevention contribute to sustainable water systems.
- SDG 9: Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure – Revolutionary robotics drive meaningful innovation in infrastructure management.
- SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities – Enhanced water network monitoring paves the way for smarter, more resilient cities.
- SDG 13: Climate Action – Efficient detection and repair systems help reduce unnecessary water waste and environmental impact.
Partnerships and Recognitions
ACWA Robotics’ advancements have been supported by a robust network of partnerships and recognitions. Esteemed water utilities such as Sartenais, Acqua Publica, SCP, and acqua provide real-world platforms for application and testing. Innovation and R&D have been bolstered by collaborations with leading institutions like inizia, pepiniere, INSA Lyon, LIS TOULON, and IH20. Institutional and financial endorsements from entities including ADEME, cic, banque des territoires, caisse d’épargne, region sud investissement, calao, ui, BPI France, and EIC accelerator further highlight the project’s credibility. Recognition by labels such as EIC ACCELERATOR, FRANCE 2030, Greentech innovation, Label Deeptech BPI, Ilab, and CES 2023 Best of Innovation “Smart cities” underscores the broad impact and potential of ACWA Robotics.
