Robotic platform for traveling on vertical piping network

This invention describes a robot designed to climb vertical pipes, like those in a waste tank, to perform tasks such as inspection or cleaning. It moves by using two sets of roller grippers to hold onto a pipe. Pneumatic cylinders extend to push the upper gripper up, then it re-grips, and the lower gripper releases, allowing the robot to inch its way upwards. It can also shift between adjacent pipes.

Why it matters: Filed before significant advancements in compact, robust robotic control systems and sensor fusion. These improvements could enable more autonomous and precise navigation of complex pipe networks than was feasible in 2011.

Status: Not in forceListed as no longer active. The specific reason is not in the record we hold.
How hard to build: ModerateCustom roller grippers, pneumatic system, control logic.

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