Researchers at the University of Wolverhampton have received £1.3 million to employ AI-powered satellite technology aimed at addressing the expensive and lengthy challenge of identifying water leaks.
Together with South Staffs Water, the group will develop, deploy, and manage a constellation of Low Earth Orbit (LEO) mini satellites capable of detecting leaks “with unparalleled efficiency and accuracy.”
By employing AI technologies alongside high-resolution satellite images, researchers aim to provide quicker, more precise, and economical methods for detecting leaks.
The institution stated that detection costs are expected to be at least one-tenth of those associated with present satellite-based techniques.
Water loss remains a significant problem for the UK industry, where approximately 19% of the water supply is lost before reaching customers, as reported by Water UK. This issue costs around £3.2bn each year within the utility sector.
The institution stated that conventional detection techniques, including acoustic monitoring and tracer gas detection, are time-consuming and not very effective. These methods usually identify less than one leak per day for each team and incur costs ranging from £250 to £2,000 per inspection.
Various satellite-driven technologies have enhanced identification accuracy, yet they remain constrained due to substantial operating expenses and image update frequencies ranging from seven to fourteen days.
With the $2.4 million CAD funding from Water Regulator Service Ofwat’s Innovation Fund, the team stated they can develop high-frequency imagery and obtain new data every six hours at a finer resolution to accurately identify leaks.
The AI-driven detection subsequently cuts expenses and facilitates quick rollout outside the UK, according to the university.
Professor Mohammad Patwarty, who directs the university’s Digital Innovation and Solution Centre (DISC) and leads the project, commented, “Initiated by Ofwat, this venture represents a significant step forward for the UK in terms of innovation. It will boost the efficiency and durability of the water sector’s infrastructure. Moreover, it sets up opportunities for key areas such as energy, transportation, and telecommunications. This initiative also helps establish the UK as a frontrunner in leveraging Low Earth Orbit (LEO) satellites for advancement and increased output.”
The team plans to utilize six satellites for their initiative named Space Eye and collaborate with multiple additional water companies based in the UK.
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More on this story
- Water utility employing drones to identify leaks more quickly
- Can robots prevent billions of liters of water leakage?
Related internet links
- University of Wolverhampton
- South Staffs Water
