Technology

Commercialisation plans include initial applications in Hyundai and Kia facilities. (Image source: Hyundai)

Hyundai Motor Company and Kia Corporation have introduced the "X-ble Shoulder," a wearable robot designed to enhance efficiency and reduce musculoskeletal strain in industrial settings.

Debuting at Wearable Robot Tech Day in Goyang, South Korea, the X-ble Shoulder is part of a broader initiative to integrate advanced robotics into various industries, including construction, shipbuilding, aviation, and agriculture.

The X-ble Shoulder operates without the need for batteries, utilising a non-powered torque generation system that reduces shoulder load by up to 60% and muscle activity by 30%. Made from lightweight, impact-resistant materials, it prioritises user safety and comfort, featuring modular components, a washable vest, and adjustability for various tasks.

The device can perform up to 700,000 repetitive actions annually, making it ideal for demanding industrial environments.

Two versions are available: a basic model for dynamic tasks and an adjustable version tailored to repetitive work, offering assistive forces of up to 2.9 kgf and 3.7 kgf, respectively. Following extensive trials with 300 workers, Hyundai and Kia incorporated user feedback to refine the product.

Commercialisation plans include initial applications in Hyundai and Kia facilities, with global market expansion to industries such as construction and agriculture by 2026.

Interested businesses can access consulting services through Hyundai’s Robotics LAB to evaluate the X-ble Shoulder’s suitability for their operations.

Production is slated to begin in 2025, with the Robotics LAB also focusing on developing a comprehensive robotics solution for seamless human-robot collaboration.

“The X-ble Shoulder is a wearable robot that leverages the technical capabilities of the Robotics LAB and implements feedback from actual users,” said Dong Jin Hyun, vice president and head of Robotics LAB at Hyundai Motor and Kia. “Going forward, we aim to expand the availability of wearable robots, creating products that work naturally with users to enhance their daily lives. By pushing technological boundaries, we will make these beneficial products accessible to more people.”

Among the innovations on display will be Synergy DETECT. (Image source: Synectics)

Synectics, a leader in surveillance technology, will introduce a range of cutting-edge solutions to enhance safety and security in the oil and gas sector at ADIPEC 2024.

Located at stand 14545 in the digitalisation zone (Hall 14), Synectics will demonstrate how Artificial Intelligence (AI), COEX cameras with built-in analytics, and new integration capabilities can significantly boost both remote and on-site monitoring for oil and gas facilities.

With nearly four decades of experience, Synectics' solutions are deployed across onshore refineries, pipelines, vessels, FPSOs, and other offshore facilities. The company is the top provider of surveillance equipment for FLNG facilities, a key component in the global energy transition.

Among the innovations on display will be Synergy DETECT, an AI-powered solution that integrates with Synectics' Synergy software, allowing users to customise AI-driven detection capabilities to meet their specific needs.

“When the PPE detection tool is activated, for example,” said Darren Alder, head of oil & gas at Synectics, “an alert is generated whenever a worker appears in the frame without a protective helmet or high-visibility vest. This is a significant benefit for efficient safety protocol enforcement.”

Darren added, “Another safety-related feature I think will be of interest is Fall Detection. It’s common practice for oil and gas teams to have ‘man-down’ sensors linked to their radios, but in reality, this only detects when the radio falls or is placed on the floor. The Fall Detection feature uses AI to immediately spot a slip, trip, or fall – ensuring those in need receive help as quickly as possible.”

Analytics-based risk detection ‘at the edge’ with COEX

“Our cameras have featured edge-based video analytics for a while, but our latest models take things a step forward”, explains Darren. “For instance, where they were previously able to detect left or removed objects or intrusion into areas marked by ‘virtual tripwires’, they can now classify people and vehicle types for improved risk detection and filtering so that surveillance teams can quickly focus in on what matters, and – by reducing the risk of false positives – rule out what doesn’t.

“The flexibility of both COEX cameras and our Synergy security and surveillance software is particularly beneficial for upgrade projects as, whether working with TSIs, EPCs or directly with end users, we can advise on and implement the best options for the existing infrastructure.”

Ross Chapman, international business development manager at Synectics, said, “We’re seeing a great deal of interest from the sector, in particular regarding radiometrics, and with good reason. Wherever visibility is compromised due to operating conditions, or where 24/7 security is non-negotiable, radiometrics integration delivers a range of very clear benefits, making it possible to detect risk through heat variation.”

Remote monitoring for cost and energy-saving

Ross added, “Remote monitoring is a key trend right now, especially offshore, where we are seeing more sites switch to being unmanned or operating with skeleton crews to reduce energy consumption. Monitoring these sites remotely means fewer human resources are needed without compromising safety or security.

“Remote surveillance solutions also appeal to oil and gas operators who wish to centralise process and security monitoring. For management teams, securely viewing live data and dashboard reports from multiple sites, whether in the same country or across an entire continent, is crucial. We look forward to discussing the opportunities available with those attending the show.”

The platform supports AI-driven analytics, delivering real-time data. (Image source: X2M)

Dicode Technologies (Dicode) has announced a strategic partnership with Australian Internet of Things (IoT) provider X2M Connect Limited (X2M) at WETEX, with plans to introduce X2M’s advanced utility platform to the Middle East, starting in the UAE.

 The “pay as you go” model offers gas companies a cost-effective way to modernise their infrastructure using IoT technology with zero upfront capital expenditure (Capex).

The partnership aims to transform the UAE's gas sector by offering a complete end-to-end solution, designed to help companies shift from a Capex to an operational expenditure (Opex) model.

Increasing safety

The service is delivered through a “Platform as a Service (PaaS)” model and includes smart gas meters, LoRaWAN communications powered by Digital DEWA’s InfraX, and X2M’s patented IoT software solution.

The X2M software provides key benefits, such as being device-agnostic, allowing compatibility with a variety of smart meters and sensors. It supports multiple utilities, including gas, water, and electricity, facilitating broader integration and operational efficiency.

With compatibility across various communication protocols, such as Zigbee, WISUN, Modbus, LoRaWAN, NBIoT, and LTE, the platform ensures seamless connectivity. It also includes leak detection features, improving safety and reliability by identifying and preventing leaks.

The software offers flexible deployment options, either on the edge, on-premises, or in the cloud, making it adaptable to different business needs. It can easily integrate with any Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) system for smooth operational transitions.

Additionally, the platform supports AI-driven analytics, delivering real-time data to help gas companies make smarter, more informed decisions.

X2M CEO and MD Mohan Jesudason, said, “We like the digitisation landscape in the Middle East with the UAE being a very logical entry point. X2M has built a strong working partnership with Dicode over a period of time. We are now looking forward to taking our proprietary utility solutions into this market in collaboration with the Dicode team.”

Dicode co-founder and CEO, Satish Chandran, said, “In line with Dicode’s vision of helping Gas Utilities migrate to smart infrastructure, we are proud to enter into partnership with X2M. X2M’s advanced software is a pivotal piece of our PaaS offering. The versatility of X2M software and its on-ground experience will help us rapidly scale the UAE market.”

The HR15 H2E and HR17 H2E can run for up to five days on batteries alone. (Image source: Niftylift).

Niftylift is at the forefront in the mobile elevated work platform (MEWP) sector, offering some of the most fuel-efficient diesel-powered equipment, as well as hybrid and fully electric models.

Recently, it introduced the world’s first hydrogen-electric-powered access platforms – the HR15 H₂E and HR17 H₂E – marking a breakthrough in zero-emission construction in the Middle East.

"When powered by renewable energy, Niftylift’s fully electric platforms provide a dependable zero-emission solution for a wide range of urban jobsites. However, we recognise that not all projects, especially those in remote locations, have access to grid power for charging. This is where the hydrogen fuel cell comes into play. By adding it on top of the electric system, we offer a versatile and practical solution that’s viable for virtually any jobsite," explains Thomas Hadden, global technical sales manager at Niftylift.

The HR15 H₂E and HR17 H₂E can run for up to five days on batteries alone, with the hydrogen system doubling this range. Even with daily use, the hydrogen cylinder only needs replacing every two to three weeks. These boom lifts integrate hydrogen technology seamlessly, maintaining Niftylift's renowned low weight and compact design while emitting only water vapour and heat as by-products. This makes them ideal for both urban and remote sites, aligning with the region’s sustainability goals.

Johnson Arabia became the first rental company in the region to acquire a Niftylift HR15 H₂E, impressed by its performance during a demonstration. The company also added 19 fully electric units to its fleet. The HR15 H₂E is now operational on a high-profile UAE construction site, delivering zero emissions without downtime for refuelling or recharging.

Enhancing safety at sites

Niftylift sees strong potential in the Middle East, driven by the focus on sustainability and safety in construction. “We’ve seen an ever-increasing growth for Niftylift products in the region even given the fierce market competition,” says Thomas. “This surge in demand is largely due to the heightened awareness of safety standards in the region and we are internationally renowned at Niftylift for our advanced safety features, such as SiOPS (sustained involuntary operation prevention system), load-sensing, and tilt-sensing technologies.”

To support growing demand, Niftylift is establishing a regional office in Dubai, serving as a hub for direct sales and support for key account rental companies. This will strengthen its partnerships in Bahrain, Kuwait, and Qatar, and expand its customer base in Saudi Arabia, a key growth market.

Niftylift also maintains close relationships with customers through regular face-to-face meetings and participation in industry events, including sponsorship of the International Powered Access Federation (IPAF) Middle East Conference 2024 in Riyadh.

“The Middle East’s transition to a sustainable future hinges on innovative technologies, such as hydrogen-electric equipment,” Thomas concludes. “As a leader in this field, we at Niftylift are committed to empowering the region’s construction industry to achieve ambitious decarbonisation goals.