End effector inspection apparatus and method
US7114406B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Sep 16, 2004 |
| Grant date | Oct 3, 2006 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Sep 16, 2024 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC G)Physics
- CPC primaryG01N2291/0422
- WIPO fieldMeasurement
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
An end effector for inspecting a structure is provided. An end effector includes a magnetically coupled attachment member for connecting the end effector to a control system bridge. An end effector also includes a telescoping arm at least partially disposed inside a tube. A force mechanism provides a force to extend the arm from the tube. A probe attachment, connected to the end of the arm opposite the tube, provides motion in at least one axis relative to the arm for an inspection probe attached to the end effector. Cut-off switches can be used to alert a control system to a separation of the end effector from the bridge and proximity of the bridge to a structure under inspection.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.