Inspection probe manipulator
US4856354A · kind A · utility
Assignee
Inventor
Key dates
| Filing date | Mar 7, 1988 |
| Grant date | Aug 15, 1989 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Mar 7, 2008 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC Y)Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
- CPC primaryY02E30/30
- WIPO fieldEngines, pumps, turbines
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
A manipulator for a fiberscope probe or other inspection probe includes a fixed base 20 and a chassis 96 rotating on a hollow spindle 70 relative to the base. The chassis, spindle and an internal housing 66 rotate together with a translative motor 60 for powering a friction drive and the rotation providing motor 100. The friction drive wheels 26 and 28 oppose idlers 30 and 32 which are movable by means of a tensioner 74 to increase the friction of the drive mechanism. The friction drive wheels extend into a central passage 12 through which the probe passes to drive the probe. The rotation motor acts with a gear fixed relative to base 20 and is controlled through limit switches 122 and 124 for 400.degree. of rotation. A potentiometer 130 monitors rotational positions. An encoder 140, driven by an idler to eliminate slippage, monitors the friction drive of the probe.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.