Fun Friday: Rough Terrain RVI
One of the obstacles of using inspection cameras (RVI) can be the presence of rough, unwelcoming terrain. This makes inspection using robotic crawlers and land based technologies difficult, and while drone RVI is expanding, there are often inspection technologies that are unable to be deployed by drones due to weight restrictions.
Robotics firm Boston Dynamics have been developing what may become a solution to this problem. RHex is a 13.6kg / 30 lb robot designed for mobility on rough terrain. Operated remotely via an RF link that includes a high-resolution video uplink, RHex can operate right-side-up or up-side down, as shown in the video, and goes for up to four hours on one charge of its batteries. RHex has been around for several years, but this version has been redesigned for ruggedness, long battery life, maintainability, and improved mobility. Funded by the US Army’s ‘Rapid Equipping Force’, technologies like these are bound to make their way to the NDT/RVI marketplace in the years to come. Check out the amazing video here:
Jason De Silveira, founder and CEO of Nexxis Technology, has always had a sharp focus on robotics, education, and real-world solutions. Throughout his career, he’s stayed committed to pushing the boundaries of robotics and helping industries strengthen their approach to asset integrity and robotic inspection.
With a background in operations, commissioning, and start-ups of new facilities, Jason leads Nexxis with a hands-on understanding of what real projects demand. Under his leadership, Nexxis has become known for developing innovative robotic systems that deliver better data, boost safety, and take the risks out of confined space and working-at-height inspections.
What makes Jason stand out? A passion for innovation, a proven ability to bring people together, and a genuine drive to help clients get the right solution — not just an off-the-shelf fix. With a strong focus on customisation and future-ready technology, he’s helping to shape the next generation of robotics.
