Laser system for removal of graffiti
US5643476A · kind A · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Sep 21, 1994 |
| Grant date | Jul 1, 1997 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Sep 21, 2014 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC B)Performing Operations; Transporting
- CPC primaryB23K26/082
- WIPO fieldMachine tools
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
A laser system for the removal of graffiti from a retro-reflective highway sign or other surface includes a mobile crane adapted to support a laser scanner and an ablating laser under the control of a computer. An optical sensor and target indicator cooperate to function as a target acquisition device for identifying portions of a highway sign covered with graffiti. Responsive to the target acquisition device, the computer controls the laser scanner and laser to automatically ablate the graffiti covered portions of the highway sign to remove the graffiti. If needed, any remaining graffiti is manually brushed away and the highway sign is polished to restore the retro-reflective properties.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.