Robotic access system including robotic fan crawler for wind blade inspection and maintenance

This invention describes a robotic system designed to climb and inspect the inside surfaces of wind turbine blades. A fan-powered robot sticks to the surface using suction fans that can pivot, and it moves along using driving components, steered by non-powered wheels. It captures images with omnidirectional cameras and stays connected to a base station via a tether for power, communication, and supplies.

Why it matters: Since 2019, advancements in AI-driven image processing have significantly improved the accuracy and speed of automated defect detection from omnidirectional camera feeds. This makes the inspection and data collection tasks outlined in the patent more efficient and reliable today.

Status: Not in forceListed as no longer active. The specific reason is not in the record we hold.
How hard to build: ModerateCustom mechanics, electronics, control software, tether system.

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