Mobile, climbing endless track robotic system to perform remote inspections on structures
US10315715B2 · kind B2 · utility
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Nov 8, 2011 |
| Grant date | Jun 11, 2019 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Aug 25, 2034 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC B)Performing Operations; Transporting
- CPC primaryB62D55/305
- WIPO fieldTransport
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
An endless-track type mobile climbing vehicle containing a suspension apparatus, transducer manipulator and surface cleaning system to perform non-destructive examination of structures while traversing the structure in all positions. The invention is able to conform to large range of irregularities of the climbing surface while maintaining contact between the track and adhering members and uniformly distributing the climbing loads on the adhering members giving the system a high payload to weight ratio. The invention is moves the inspection transducer over the surface while maintaining correct alignment of the tool relative to the surface. The invention allows an operator to perform an inspection on structures that require cleaning or other preparation prior to inspection. The invention allows an operator to perform an inspection remotely.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.