Vertical travel robotic tank cleaning system
US11413666B1 · kind B1 · utility
Assignee
Inventor
Key dates
| Filing date | Dec 23, 2018 |
| Grant date | Aug 16, 2022 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Jul 2, 2039 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC G)Physics
- CPC primaryG21F9/22
- WIPO fieldHandling
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
Systems, devices, and methods for passing vertical travel robotic tank cleaning systems through openings while mounted to existing riser structures, the system can extend to the bottom of the tank and horizontally more than approximately 30 feet. Plural systems can be used within a tank to break down solid sludge by placing high-pressure nozzle(s) in close proximity to solid waste providing maximum coverage. A mechanical arm with a nozzle assembly utilizes high- and low-pressure fluid streams to fluidize and liquefy solids while directly moving them to a centrally located transfer pump. The systems work in highly radioactive, chemically aggressive, explosive, high temperature and low temperature environments through hydraulic actuation. Multiple axis of freedom allows the arm and nozzle assembly to navigate and clean around internal obstacles and reach close proximity for maximum nozzle impingement force. Systems can be remotely operated up to approximately 1000 feet away.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.