Berita

JAKARTA. Clearing high voltage power cables from kites and other debris is a risky task. Due to its vital role in the supply of electricity, this is one task that must be carried out by PLN employees.

To answer this challenge, Iwan Gunawan of PT PLN P3B JB have created a robot to named ROBOLAY (Robot Pembersih Sampah Layangan) which literally means kite litter cleaner robot to handle high voltage power cables. Recent trials have shown its effectiveness in maintaining the power network, while also reducing the risk of work related accidents.

This robot is controlled wirelessly using radio frequencies from below the power cable. It will clear kites, strings, and other forms of litter from the power cables so that electricity may be distributed smoothly.

“We have patented ROBOLAY, along with other inventions designed by our employees, which will be very beneficial for the company” explains PLN President Director, Fahmi Mochtar. He further added that several innovations which have been implemented has proven increase productivity levels. As a company which faces technological challenges on a daily basis, PLN needs to innovate solutions in order to promptly handle those challenges.

PLN has been holding an annual innovation competition, in order to encourage further innovations. “Innovation has been a central part of our company. This event is held to build a healthy competition and as a form of appreciation to our employees” explains Fahmi.

PLN employee Maskur Buchori from its East Java Distribution and associates have also researched on an improved ROBOLAY, named Control Jog Double Way (CJDW) robot which will be able to work on a powered electricity cable.

“CJDW robot has been put into service in PLN’s East Java operations. It is currently being further developed by the Research and Development body and produced by PLN production services” explains Bambang Sentosa, PLN Assistant Deputy Director for Organizational Development. For his work, Buchori received the Dharma Karya ESDM Muda medal.

According to Bambang Santosa, the CJDW robot will be able to carry out tasks such as securing conductors, clearing trees, conductor inspections, and constructing poles. “This robot has a scissor-like arm for clearing trees” concludes Bambang Sentosa.