The challenge
Balfour Beatty partnered with Createc and Leica Geosystems to conduct a robotic survey of a historic tunnel network beneath Leeds city centre. Due to the confined, hazardous conditions and presence of asbestos, human access to the tunnels is both costly and restricted.
This project aimed to survey the tunnels while overcoming logistical barriers, such as limited access points, significant flooding, and the need for continuous, reliable communication and data capture.
The Leeds tunnel network presented numerous challenges:
- Restricted Access: Only two access points existed – a staircase from a substation and a manhole in a busy road, making entry challenging and disruptive.
- Flooding: Some tunnel sections were flooded up to 1.2 meters deep, requiring specialised equipment to navigate and survey submerged areas.
- Communication and Navigation: The depth and structure of the tunnels obstructed radio signals, complicating the remote operation of robotic platforms.
- Hazardour Environment: Abestos contamination and confined spaces limited personnel involvement, necessitating the use of remote-controlled and autonomous robotic systems.
