Drall-E
Piloting Inspection Rovers Through Mixed Reality
As part of its Industry 4.0 innovation program, Framatome, a global leader in the nuclear energy sector recognized for its high-value technologies and engineering expertise, sought to rethink inspection processes for hard-to-access environments, such as nuclear pool floors.
To explore new possibilities, we partnered with Framatome to design an prototype, a compact inspection rover remotely operated through mixed reality with HoloLens 2.
This exploratory project aimed to redefine human-machine interaction in constrained industrial contexts, focusing on precision, operator comfort, and situational awareness.
A Compact and Agile Robotic System
The DRALLE prototype combines a Leo Rover mobile platform with a next-generation Kinect 3D camera, providing accurate environmental scanning and visualization.
This setup allows the inspection unit to be smaller, more mobile, and more efficient than traditional inspection vehicles, without compromising data quality.
Immersive Control with HoloLens 2
Using the Microsoft HoloLens 2, operators can remotely control the rover while visualizing a real-time 3D holographic reconstruction of the inspected environment.
This mixed reality interface enhances spatial awareness and enables intuitive interactions with the robot’s sensors, cameras, and movement systems.
Enhanced Comfort and Operational Performance
The immersive interface significantly reduces cognitive fatigue compared to traditional 2D monitoring screens, improving both precision and operator efficiency.
It introduces a new standard for industrial ergonomics, combining safety, intuitiveness, and technological innovation.
Objectives and Outcomes :
Through DRALLE, Framatome and HoloForge Interactive demonstrate how mixed reality can transform industrial inspection, paving the way for smarter, safer, and more connected operations in the nuclear sector.
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