Robotics and the Future of Pipeline Transportation of Crude Oil
Overview
The implementation of robotics in pipeline transportation of crude oil is a rapidly evolving sector. With advancements in technology, robotics are slated to change the landscape of oil transportation, offering more safety, reliability, and efficiency than ever before. Noteworthy statistics that'll be discussed involve the expected market growth for oil and gas robotics, the rise in pipeline transport, and the reduction in human error occurrences.
The Growing Market of Oil and Gas Robotics
The worldwide market for oil and gas robotics is expected to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 7.01% between 2020 and 2027. With increased focus on operational efficiency and safety, oil and gas companies are turning to robotics to enhance their procedures. According to a report by Grand View Research, the global robotics market in the oil and gas industry was valued at USD 2.85 billion in 2021. As a result, the application of robotics in pipeline transportation is becoming increasingly common, showcasing a potential for significant growth.
The Ascendancy of Pipeline Transportation
Pipeline transportation of crude oil is on the rise. According to the IEA, pipelines transported nearly 70% of all global oil trade in 2019, and this figure is expected to grow in the coming years. The increase can be attributed to the numerous benefits provided by pipeline transportation, such as cost-effectiveness, low risk of spillage, and reduced environmental impact. While inconveniences such as corrosion, leaks, and pipeline failure are prevalent, the introduction of robotics offers an effective solution to these problems.
Increase in Safety and Decrease in Human Error
One of the significant benefits of implementing robotics in pipeline transportation is the decrease in human errors. As per a study done by ABS Group, about 40% of oil pipeline accidents in the U.S. are caused by human error. The incorporation of robotics in pipeline inspection and maintenance can drastically reduce these figures and save on costs associated with human-induced errors and accidents. Furthermore, automated tasks can be performed in harsh environments that could pose risks to human workers, further enhancing safety.
Key Takeaways
- The market for oil and gas robotics is poised for substantial growth, with a projected CAGR of 7.01% between 2020 and 2027.
- Pipeline transportation of crude oil is increasing, accounting for 70% of all global oil trade in 2019.
- The application of robotics can mitigate human error, which causes approximately 40% of oil pipeline accidents in the US.
About 3Laws Robotics
3Laws Robotics is developing state-of-the-art software solutions designed to improve safety and reliability for robotic systems. The firm mainly addresses the significant challenge of certification, a major obstacle for many robotics companies. Through the 3Laws Supervisor software, the firm aims to ease this process, offering robust safety features and providing a system's robustness evidence.
The Supervisor software is constructed on Control Barrier Functions (CBFs), a cutting-edge technology from Caltech that promises unsurpassed safety. Whether in warehouse automation, human-robot interaction, or in dynamic environments, the 3Laws software promises a 40% efficiency gain, reduced downtime, and effective navigation in unpredictable circumstances.
3Laws Robotics provides a future-forward safety solution that supersede traditional e-stop methods, offering a safety-first approach that still utilizes the full potential of robotics. With software compatible with popular middleware like ROS and ROS2, it can adapt to various platforms, including cars, drones, mobile robots, and manipulators, and is safety-certified for ISO 3691-4 and ISO 26262. Thus, 3Laws Robotics stands as a cutting-edge, reliable solution provider for the intersection of robotics and pipeline crude oil transportation.