Robot inspection: A revolution in modern engineering

Inspection robots are essential tools in modern engineering. These automated or remote‑controlled devices can be used to inspect hard‑to‑reach areas such as pipelines, tanks or industrial structures. Their role is to collect visual and technical information in order to diagnose the condition of an infrastructure without exposing technicians to danger. They are generally equipped with high‑definition cameras, sensors and lighting systems, and can move around in confined environments. These robots guarantee efficient and safe inspection while improving the accuracy of technical reports.

Inspection robots are often used in fields such as energy, telecommunications, construction and the chemical industry to check the integrity of installations and anticipate faults. Among these solutions, ITV trolleys and more advanced devices such as Multinnov's Rover Roview2 stand out.

The ITV trolley: a versatile tool for industrial inspection

The ITV (Instrumented Target Vehicle) trolley is a mobile robot designed to inspect infrastructures, particularly confined spaces such as sewers or pipes. It is equipped with cameras and sensors to assess the condition of underground structures and transmits visual data in real time, enabling rapid intervention if anomalies are detected.

Areas of application for the ITV

• Pipe inspection: ITV trucks are commonly used to inspect sewers and water distribution networks. They can be used to detect leaks, cracks or obstructions.
• Industrial pipeline monitoring: They are essential for monitoring the condition of pipelines in the petrochemical and energy industries, identifying wear, corrosion or deposit build‑up.
• Environmental quality control: ITV trucks, equipped with specific sensors, can measure parameters such as air quality or the presence of noxious gases, ensuring a safe and compliant inspection.
• Preventive maintenance: The regular inspections carried out by these trucks help to anticipate problems, reducing the risk of breakdowns and repair costs.

However, while ITV trucks perform well in simple environments, they can have limitations when it comes to rough terrain or situations requiring advanced functionality. This is where Multinnov's Rover Roview2 comes into its own.

Rover Roview2 from Multinnov: an innovative inspection solution

The Rover Roview2 from Multinnov is a wireless ground robot specially designed for ITV inspections. This innovative model stands out for its ability to operate on both land and water, making it particularly versatile in a variety of environments.

Roview2 technical specifications

•  Battery life: The Roview2 can operate for up to 2 hours in motion with the LEDs on, and up to 8 hours when stationary. This makes it a reliable tool for extended inspections.
• 4K camera and 1080P video return: The quality of the images captured is exceptional, enabling detailed inspection. The camera can rotate 360° horizontally and 180° vertically, providing a complete view of the environment.
• Wireless connection: Real‑time data transmission is ensured by a wireless connection, eliminating the need for cables in confined spaces.
• Buoyancy and waterproof hull: The Roview2 can navigate in aquatic environments, making it an ideal choice for inspecting flooded sewers or submerged pipes.
• Obstacle clearance: This robot is able to overcome deposits and obstacles in pipes thanks to its weight/tyre area ratio, ensuring a smooth inspection even in difficult conditions.
• Powerful lighting: With its six LED panels, it can operate effectively in dark environments, such as sewers or tunnels.
• Real‑time telemetry and measurement: In addition to capturing images, the Roview2 can accurately measure structural elements such as distance travelled, which is essential for inspections to standards such as NF13508‑2.
• Stability and safety: It is designed to operate safely, with up to 45° lateral stability and 30° rollover warning, ensuring a risk‑free inspection.

Applications for Roview2

• Inspection of sewers and underground networks: Its ability to float and its watertight hull make it particularly well‑suited to aquatic environments, even in the presence of obstacles.
• Inspection of industrial ducts: Thanks to its high‑definition camera and telemetric measurements, the Roview2 can detect anomalies with great accuracy.
• Measurement of structural defects: Its ability to measure in real time means that defects can be quickly identified and any necessary repairs planned.

Comparison: ITV truck vs Rover Roview2

While ITV trucks are reliable solutions for simple inspection tasks, the Roview2 stands out for its versatility and advanced features. While the ITV truck may struggle to cope with obstacles or complex environments, the Roview2 is designed to overcome these challenges thanks to its ability to negotiate rough terrain and navigate water. What's more, its 4K camera and 1080P video feedback deliver the superior image quality essential for precision inspections.

The Roview2 can also take measurements in real time, making it particularly well‑suited to regulated or high‑precision inspections, where an ITV truck is often limited to simple visual capture. Finally, its ability to operate in complex environments, combined with extended autonomy, makes it the tool of choice for inspections of underground networks and industrial ducts.

In short, while ITV trucks are perfectly suited to basic inspections in confined spaces, Multinnov's Roview2 represents a more advanced and comprehensive solution. Thanks to its many features, its ability to overcome obstacles and to operate in a variety of environments, the Roview2 is an indispensable tool for complex inspections. For companies looking for a high‑performance solution, the Roview2 is the obvious choice.