Magnetic wheel guided carriage with positioning arm
US5853655A · kind A · utility
Inventor
Key dates
| Filing date | Nov 7, 1996 |
| Grant date | Dec 29, 1998 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Nov 7, 2016 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC B)Performing Operations; Transporting
- CPC primaryB23K2101/06
- WIPO fieldMachine tools
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
A remote controlled welding and cutting carriage, with an automated positioning arm, to facilitate welding and cutting of flat and curved surfaces including plate and pipe without the use of track, band or similar carriage positioning or guidance mechanisms. Multiple motor driven precision ground magnetic wheel sets align and propel the carriage across a surface. Precision maintenance of magnetic wheel position is facilitated by use of spring steel axles which resist distortion from impacts. A separate magnetic wheel set alignment adjustment is provided to correct magnetic wheel set positioning. The system of motor driven magnetic wheel sets permits the carriage, or carriages, to transport cutting and welding materials required for welding and cutting around the complete circumference of a pipe or other surface regardless of orientation or slope. One or a plurality of motor driven torch positioning arms with photo sensors will track patterns delineated, for example, with a reflective tape or guidance line for additional accuracy in the positioning of the torch or welding head. The torch positioning arm may additionally be positioned, for simple as well as complex patterns, by compu…
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.