Autonomous robotic crawler for in-pipe inspection
US7210364B2 · kind B2 · utility
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Oct 17, 2002 |
| Grant date | May 1, 2007 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Feb 1, 2023 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC F)Mechanical Engineering; Lighting; Heating
- CPC primaryF16L55/38
- WIPO fieldMechanical elements
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
The specification discloses a robot for inspection adapted to travel virtually unlimited distances through small-diameter enclosed spaces such as conduits or ducts, preferably using a fluid-driven screw-drive propulsion system. The robot preferably includes a drive module having a plurality of wheels inclined at an angle greater than zero degrees and less than ninety degrees to the longitudinal axis of the pipe, a driver module having a plurality of wheels aligned parallel to the longitudinal axis of the pipe, and a power module. The driver module is preferably connected to the drive module such that the drive and driver modules are capable of providing the locomotive motion of the robot. The power module preferably provides the power to the drive and driver modules.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.