RIVIR (Remote Inspection Vehicle with Infra-Red), Poster 40

Over last J-term and summer, the 2016 STEM Innovation Team developed RIVIR (Remote Inspection Vehicle with InfraRed), a modular rover designed to visually evaluate steam pipes and ductwork systems that typically have limited... [ view full abstract ]

Over last J-term and summer, the 2016 STEM Innovation Team developed RIVIR (Remote Inspection Vehicle with InfraRed), a modular rover designed to visually evaluate steam pipes and ductwork systems that typically have limited accessibility. The ultimate goal was industrial application; therefore, reliability of controls, user-end simplicity, and practical packaging were given particular emphasis. Recommendations from the vehicle’s intended user, Middlebury College’s Facilities Department, were actively considered throughout the engineering process to ensure a highly-customized product. With regards to the physical elements of RIVIR’s construction, Actobotics parts, servos, and motor controls were utilized in the structural and mechanical assemblage of the vehicle, while external casings were designed in SolidWorks and subsequently produced via 3D printer, further enhancing the durability and water-resistance of the interior. Visual and thermal data were processed through a FLIR Lepton Camera module in conjunction with a Raspberry Pi. This past fall, the STEM team delivered RIVIR to Facilities Services to improve current strategies for assessing steam trap energy efficiency. The ability to control the vehicle remotely, coupled with the rover’s infrared capabilities, will allow staff to readily detect notable temperature differentials and facilitate their efforts to optimize steam rooms on campus.