Nuclear Fuel Rod Retrieval Robot
Gibbon is a portable, mobile hydraulic robot specifically developed for retrieving nuclear fuel rods in highly radioactive environments exceeding 10⁵ RAD (20,000 mSv per component). This robot is designed with a modular hydraulic manipulator and mobile system, allowing for efficient operation in areas where human access is restricted. Developed in 2016 at the request of a nuclear agency, Gibbon was deployed on-site and is equipped with remote-controlled capabilities to safely collect and transport hazardous materials.
The Gibbon robot system consists of a 5+1 degree-of-freedom(DOF) robotic arm mounted on a mobile platform with four independently driven wheels, enabling it to overcome obstacles such as stairs and uneven terrain. Additionally, the hydraulic power unit (mHPU) has been developed as a compact 4-module system, allowing for the miniaturization and weight reduction of the overall system. The robot weighs 56 kg and has a maximum lifting capacity of 10 kg.
This robot is built using our hydraulic components, allowing for a specialized layout and effective remote control of the system. The innovative Gibbon robot enables safe and efficient operations in highly hazardous environments where human access is limited, earning positive recognition in the industry.