Overview:
Tokyo Electric Power Company Holdings, Inc. (TEPCO) is actively seeking technologies to prevent the accumulation and subsequent falling of snow and ice. When snow and ice build up and eventually fall, damage to ground facilities can be caused.
To date, they have implemented several countermeasures, including snow-proof rings, Teflon tape, and snow-melting lines. Therefore, they are looking for innovative countermeasure technologies.
Specific Technology Requirements
Their highest priority is “anti-adhesion technology” to prevent snow and ice from sticking to overhead power lines. They are also very interested in “adhesion prevention technology” and “technology to remove snow and ice in their early stages before they accumulate. This challenge is open to:
- Developed or commercialized technologies
- Pre-commercialization technologies
- Elemental technologies that may provide incremental improvements
Potential Technology Areas for Solutions
- Drone and robotic technologies
- Equipment-based countermeasure technologies
- Coating technologies, etc.
Effectiveness and Implementation Requirements
The countermeasure technology must be applicable to live power lines. However, it is acceptable if the installation of some devices requires a prior power outage.
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