In July, Signal returned for the third time to Chevron’s Oronite refinery in Normandy, France, to document the final stage of Chevron’s innovative robotics project, developed in partnership with the EU Horizons program.
This visit focused on the SIMAR project, an advanced drone-crawler system equipped with sensors designed to detect corrosion beneath insulation.
By combining robotics with augmented reality, the project seeks to enhance safety in industrial environments by reducing the need for rope access and confined-space entry, ultimately minimizing the risks faced by personnel working at height on complex pipework.
Over the course of five days, the Signal team captured both personnel and drones in action, coordinating logistics, planning shot sequences, managing on-site production, and supporting interviews with key consortium members who have been instrumental in bringing SIMAR to life. From this work, Signal produced a series of short films highlighting specific experiments, alongside a “Hero” film that tells the full story of the project.
These films not only showcase the innovative technology in action but also illustrate how EU Horizons funding has driven advancements in robotics and augmented reality, contributing to safer, smarter working environments across the industrial sector. The SIMAR project also reflects Signal’s ongoing collaboration with Chevron, demonstrating a long-standing partnership through which the company continues to support Chevron’s communications and media initiatives.
More information about the SIMAR project can be found here.
With decades of experience bringing complex, multi-location international projects to life, Signal excels at creating compelling stories. Regardless of subject or setting, the company guides every stage of the production process, ensuring that each story is captured with clarity, creativity, and impact anywhere in the world.