Patent granted to EM&I Group
02/03/2023
EM&I Group’s recent capability development – the NoMan Laser – has been granted a UK patent, number GB2572781.
Forming part of the NoMan Remote Inspection suite of services, the NoMan Laser is an innovative solution that was designed to enhance the quality of data, including thickness measurements, and the safety and efficiency of asset integrity. 
Confined space inspections have long been deemed a significant risk within the offshore energy production sector, with risk levels higher than the acceptable as low as reasonably practicable (ALARP) standard. EM&I launched the NoMan service line in 2016, with the aim of mitigating risks by eliminating the need for humans to enter confined spaces during the inspection process. Remote inspections are carried out using state-of-the-art technology, which provides accurate, reliable and detailed data. Integrity assessment and assurance can then be completed with confidence, ensuring continued safe operation.
The NoMan Laser has further enhanced the remote inspection process, as the new patented technology delivers sharp and accurate results, building 3D models to identify anomalies and to enable thickness measurement, without compromising on safety. Unlike some crawlers, NoMan does not damage coatings, is far faster and with a negligible risk of getting stuck or having to navigate complex structures.
NoMan is not restricted by battery life, with intrinsically safe optical and laser scanners. It does not need human entry to pilot and always knows exactly where it is and what it is ‘looking’ at, making surveyors’ tasks more straightforward.
