Introducing AI-based Robodog Technology for Operation and Inspection
- Kommu .
- Apr 15
- 3 min read
Shell has officially approved and deployed AI-powered robot dogs—specifically the Boston Dynamics "Spot" robot
for operational inspection at several of its facilities, including the Shell Scotford Complex in Alberta, Canada. These robotic dogs are equipped with advanced sensors and AI-driven autonomous navigation, enabling them to perform a range of inspection tasks in industrial environments.
Key Details
Robot Model: Boston Dynamics "Spot"
Purpose: The robot dogs are used for remote operation and autonomous sensing to assist with data collection, 3D imaging, thermal scanning, and routine inspections in areas that may be hazardous or difficult for humans to access.
Operational Use: At Shell Scotford, the robots started with simpler inspection and imaging tasks and are being trained to learn more complex routes for broader security and safety roles. In emergencies, they can be sent into dangerous areas to assess conditions before human responders enter, enhancing worker safety.
Technology Integration: The robots can detect gas leaks, perform thermal imaging, and collect high-resolution visual data. Their proximity to the ground allows them to identify small leaks and emissions more reliably than traditional methods.
Cost and Investment: Each Spot robot costs around CAD $100,000, reflecting Shell’s commitment to digitalization and automation in its operations.
Broader Robotics Program: Shell’s robotics initiative also includes drones, tank-feeding robots, and other ground surveillance robots (such as ANYmal and Sensabot) for comprehensive, automated inspection and monitoring across its global sites.
Strategic Benefits
Safety: Reduces human exposure to hazardous environments.
Efficiency: Automates routine and high-risk inspection tasks, improving data quality and operational uptime.
Innovation: Part of Shell’s broader digitalization strategy, integrating robotics and AI for smarter, safer, and more efficient energy operations.
In summary: Shell’s approved AI robot dog for operational inspection is the Boston Dynamics "Spot," now actively used for autonomous and remote inspections, data collection, and safety monitoring at major Shell facilities.
Other Companies
Several oil & gas companies have approved and deployed AI-powered robotic inspection solutions similar to Shell’s use of the Boston Dynamics Spot robot dog. These alternatives are designed for hazardous, complex, or remote environments and are often certified for use in explosive atmospheres (ATEX/IECEx). Here are the leading approved alternatives:
1. ANYmal X by ANYbotics
Certification: ATEX/IECEx Zone 1 (Ex-proof), specifically designed for hazardous and explosive environments.
Capabilities:
Legged robot with advanced mobility (can climb stairs, navigate tight spaces).
Performs autonomous visual inspections, reads analog gauges, checks liquid levels, lever positions, conducts thermography, vibration analysis, and 3D scanning.
Equipped with gas detection sensors (Methane, CO, H₂S, etc.).
Integrates with asset management and digital twin platforms (e.g., Cognite Data Fusion, Woodside Fuse).
Industry Adoption: Deployed by PETRONAS, BASF, Petrobras, and other major operators for routine and emergency inspections in oil & gas and chemical facilities.
2. Taurob Inspector (Taurob)
Certification: ATEX-certified for oil & gas industry use since 2012.
Capabilities:
Fully autonomous mobile robot for preventive and routine inspections.
Gathers video, audio, and sensor data; detects gas leaks; manipulates valves.
Operates in harsh environmental conditions and hazardous areas.
Integrates with cloud-based applications for data analysis and reporting.
Industry Adoption: Used by TotalEnergies, Equinor, ADNOC, Petrobras, and others in joint industry projects and operational deployments.
3. Boston Dynamics Spot (with Cognite Data Fusion, Aker BP)
Certification: Used in offshore and onshore oil & gas environments; not ATEX-certified but deployed in controlled areas.
Capabilities:
Quadruped robot for autonomous and remote inspection.
Collects high-quality data, performs thermal imaging, gas detection, and 3D mapping.
Integrated with Cognite Data Fusion for contextualized data analytics and reporting.
Industry Adoption: Deployed by Aker BP on the Skarv installation in the North Sea for autonomous missions, data capture, and safety inspections.
4. Energy Robotics Platform
Solution: Provides a fleet management platform for various inspection robots (including legged, wheeled, and drone robots).
Capabilities:
Enables autonomous inspection missions at oil & gas facilities, including ATEX/IECEx Zone 1 areas.
Centralized data collection, analysis, and reporting for multiple robot types.
Industry Adoption: Used by operators for both onshore and offshore inspection tasks.
Summary Table
Robot/Platform | Certification | Key Features & Sensors | Notable Deployments |
ANYmal X (ANYbotics) | ATEX/IECEx Zone 1 | Legged, gas detection, thermography, 3D scan | PETRONAS, BASF, Petrobras |
Taurob Inspector | ATEX | Mobile, gas detection, valve ops, video/audio | TotalEnergies, Equinor, ADNOC, Petrobras |
Spot (Boston Dynamics) | Not ATEX, offshore/onshore | Quadruped, thermal, gas, 3D mapping, Cognite Data Fusion | Aker BP, Shell |
Energy Robotics | Multi-robot, ATEX/IECEx | Fleet management, data analytics | Multiple oil & gas operators |
In summary:
Alternatives to Shell’s approved AI robodog for oil & gas inspection include the ANYmal X(ANYbotics), Taurob Inspector (Taurob), and Boston Dynamics Spot (with Cognite Data Fusion, Aker BP). These robots are industry-approved, with several certified for explosive environments, and are actively used by major oil & gas companies for autonomous, AI-driven inspection and safety monitoring.
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