Intelligent inspection robot

By designing intelligent inspection robots and integrating multiple modules and technologies, the problems of inefficiency and high risks of traditional inspection methods are solved, automated and intelligent inspection tasks are realized, and safety and efficiency are improved.

CN222506792UActive Publication Date: 2025-02-18HUBEI LIANTOU CITY OPERATION CO LTD
View PDF 0 Cites 1 Cited by

Patent Information

Application Number
CN202421323936.3
Authority / Receiving Office
CN · China
Patent Type
Utility models(China)
Current Assignee / Owner
Filing Date
2024-06-12
Publication Date
2025-02-18
Estimated Expiration
2034-06-12

AI Technical Summary

Technical Problem

The traditional manual inspection method is inefficient and has high risk, and the early automated inspection equipment has simple functions and low intelligence, making it difficult to adapt to the changing inspection environment and complex task requirements.

Method used

Design an intelligent inspection robot equipped with rotating columns, monitoring modules, identification modules and solar panels, equipped with power modules, body movement modules, obstacle avoidance modules, communication modules, navigation and positioning modules and calculation control modules to realize automated inspection, Environmental monitoring and real-time data transmission.

Benefits of technology

It has realized the automated execution of inspection tasks, reduced manual demand, especially in high-risk areas, accurately monitor environmental parameters, timely detect damage or abnormal facilities, reduce the cost of manual inspection, adapt to various environments, and improve public safety.

✦ Generated by Eureka AI based on patent content.

Smart Images

  • Figure CN222506792U_ABST
    Figure CN222506792U_ABST
Patent Text Reader

Abstract

The utility model provides an intelligent inspection robot. The intelligent inspection robot comprises a power supply module, a machine body movement module, an obstacle avoidance module, a communication module, a navigation positioning module and a calculation control module, the power supply module is used for providing power for all systems and components of the robot; the obstacle avoidance module is used for detecting obstacles on the advancing path of the robot so as to avoid collision; the communication module is used for communication between the robot and an external system; the monitoring module and the identification module are used for collecting environment monitoring data; the navigation positioning module is used for determining the accurate position of the robot and planning an inspection path; and the calculation control module is used for processing the data collected by the monitoring and identification module and executing data analysis and decision. Inspection tasks are automatically executed, and labor requirements are reduced, especially in high-risk areas; the equipped sensor accurately monitors environmental parameters, and timely discovers damage or difference of facilities.
Need to check novelty before this filing date? Find Prior Art

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The utility model relates to the field of automated robots, in particular to an intelligent inspection robot. Background Art

[0002] With the development of science and technology, traditional manual inspection methods have gradually failed to meet the requirements of modern society for high efficiency and safety. In many industries, especially in harsh environments or places where there are potential dangers to humans, manual inspections are not only inefficient but also high-risk. Therefore, there is a growing demand for automated inspection robots to replace or assist manual inspection tasks. Although early automated inspection equipment can reduce human participation to a certain extent, most of them have simple functions and low intelligence levels, making it difficult to adapt to changing inspection environments and complex task requirements. In addition, although traditional sensors and monitoring technologies can provide certain data support, they often lack the ability to continuously monitor and provide real-time feedback.

[0003] The development of artificial intelligence and machine learning technologies has provided new possibilities for the intelligent upgrade of robots. By integrating advanced AI technologies, the capabilities of inspection robots in image recognition, anomaly detection, and autonomous decision-making are expected to be significantly improved. The design and development of intelligent inspection robots need to be innovated and integrated on the basis of existing technologies to achieve a higher level of automation, intelligence, and adaptability to meet the requirements of modern society for safety, efficiency, and reliability. Utility Model Content

[0004] The main purpose of the utility model is to provide an intelligent inspection robot to solve the problems in the above-mentioned background technology.

[0005] In order to solve the above technical problems, the technical solution adopted by the utility model is: comprising a machine body, a rotating column is mounted on the machine body, a monitoring module, an identification module and a solar panel are arranged on the top of the column, a sliding obstacle removal cone is arranged at the front of the machine body, and an interactive interface is arranged at the rear of the machine body;

[0006] It also includes a power module, a body motion module, an obstacle avoidance module, a communication module, a navigation and positioning module, and a computing and control module;

[0007] The power module is used to provide power to all systems and components of the robot;

[0008] The obstacle avoidance module is used to detect obstacles on the robot's path to avoid collisions;

[0009] The communication module is used for communication between the robot and the external system;

[0010] The monitoring module and the identification module are used to collect environmental monitoring data;

[0011] The navigation and positioning module is used to determine the precise location of the robot and plan the inspection path;

[0012] The computing and control module is used to process the data collected by the monitoring and identification module and perform data analysis and decision-making.

[0013] Preferably, the interactive interface is used to display status information collected by the monitoring module and the identification module.

[0014] Preferably, the monitoring module and the identification module are electrically connected to the computing and control module;

[0015] The recognition module includes a camera, which is an infrared camera;

[0016] The monitoring module includes a temperature sensor, a humidity sensor and a noise sensor.

[0017] Preferably, the computing control module includes a central processing unit and a graphics processing unit for advanced data processing;

[0018] The body motion module includes a drive system and a rotation system, which are used to control the movement of the body in real time.

[0019] Preferably, the obstacle avoidance module includes a laser radar, an ultrasonic sensor and a camera for obstacle recognition and avoidance.

[0020] Preferably, the power module includes two power supplies, one for backup and one for use, and the solar panel is electrically connected to the power supply.

[0021] Preferably, the navigation and positioning module includes a high-precision GPS unit and an IMU unit to achieve precise positioning.

[0022] The communication module includes wireless LAN and cellular network for remote connection and Bluetooth-assisted device interaction.

[0023] Preferably, a rotating mechanism is provided between the column and the body, and the rotating mechanism is used to drive the identification module and the monitoring module on the column to rotate.

[0024] Preferably, the obstacle-clearing cone surface is slidably connected to the machine body through a plurality of guide columns, a spring is provided on the outer side of the guide column, and two ends of the spring are respectively against the obstacle-clearing cone surface and the machine body;

[0025] A sliding bearing is arranged between the guide column and the machine body, and a limit block is fixedly arranged at the end of the guide column.

[0026] The utility model provides an intelligent inspection robot, which automatically performs inspection tasks and reduces the need for manpower, especially in high-risk areas; the equipped sensors accurately monitor environmental parameters and promptly detect damage or abnormalities of facilities; the monitoring data is quickly transmitted to the control center for timely response; the cost of manual inspection is reduced, and the solar panels reduce energy consumption; it can adapt to a variety of environments, including indoor and outdoor inspections and night inspections; the navigation and positioning module ensures a rapid response to abnormal situations; it assists in monitoring in crowded areas to improve public safety; it maintains a stable connection with the control center through a variety of communication technologies; the battery pack and solar panels ensure that the robot can operate independently for a long time. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0027] The utility model is further described below in conjunction with the accompanying drawings and embodiments:

[0028] Figure 1 It is a front view of the overall structure of the utility model;

[0029] Figure 2 It is the overall flow chart of the utility model;

[0030] In the figure: body 1; body motion module 2; rotation mechanism 3; column 4; monitoring module 5; identification module 6; solar panel 7; interactive interface 8; obstacle removal cone 9; guide column 10; power module 11; obstacle avoidance module 12; communication module 13; navigation and positioning module 14; calculation and control module 15. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0031] like Figure 1~2 As shown, an intelligent inspection robot comprises a body 1, a rotating column 4 is mounted on the body 1, a monitoring module 5, an identification module 6 and a solar panel 7 are arranged on the top of the column 4, a sliding obstacle removal cone 9 is arranged at the front of the body 1, and an interactive interface 8 is arranged at the rear of the body 1;

[0032] It also includes a power module 11, a body motion module 2, an obstacle avoidance module 12, a communication module 13, a navigation and positioning module 14 and a calculation and control module 15;

[0033] The power module 11 is used to provide power to all systems and components of the robot;

[0034] The obstacle avoidance module 12 is used to detect obstacles on the robot's path to avoid collision;

[0035] The communication module 13 is used for communication between the robot and the external system;

[0036] The monitoring module 5 and the identification module 6 are used to collect environmental monitoring data;

[0037] The navigation and positioning module 14 is used to determine the precise position of the robot and plan the inspection path;

[0038] The computing control module 15 is used to process the data collected by the monitoring and identification modules, and perform data analysis and decision-making. The monitoring module 5 and the identification module 6 can collect the environmental data and equipment operation status of the equipment site, and the obstacle removal cone 9 can remove small and light foreign objects on the road surface to ensure the smooth travel of the road surface.

[0039] The configuration of the monitoring module 5 and the recognition module 6 enables the robot to collect environmental data in all directions, such as environmental parameters such as temperature, humidity, and gas composition, and to monitor the status of specific equipment, such as checking whether the equipment is damaged or abnormally heated through image recognition technology. This capability is crucial for preventive maintenance and immediate fault detection.

[0040] The top-mounted solar panel 7 means that the robot is able to recharge itself when exposed to sunlight, reducing its reliance on external power sources and improving its suitability and endurance in remote or hard-to-reach areas.

[0041] The obstacle avoidance module 12 combines advanced sensor technology and algorithms to ensure that the robot can safely avoid obstacles and reduce accidents. The sliding obstacle removal cone 9 at the front end is cleverly designed to automatically remove small obstacles on the road without interfering with the execution of the main task, keeping the forward route unobstructed.

[0042] The navigation and positioning module 14 and the computing and control module 15 constitute the "brain" of the robot, which can not only achieve precise positioning, but also dynamically adjust the path according to the preset inspection plan and real-time environmental information to ensure inspection efficiency and coverage. The computing and control module is also responsible for processing large amounts of data, making quick responses and decisions, and improving the intelligent level of inspection.

[0043] The interactive interface 8 provided at the tail facilitates the operator to set parameters, assign tasks and obtain inspection reports, thus enhancing the friendliness and work efficiency of human-computer interaction.

[0044] Preferably, the interactive interface 8 is used to display the status information collected by the monitoring module 5 and the identification module 6, so as to facilitate observation and setting of the collected data.

[0045] Convert complex monitoring data into charts, curves, etc., so that the information is clear at a glance and easy to analyze quickly. When the monitoring data exceeds the preset threshold, the interface will immediately issue a warning or alarm signal to prompt the operator to pay attention to potential problems. Users can adjust the robot's working mode, set inspection routes, modify monitoring parameters, etc. through the interactive interface 8 to achieve customized inspection needs. Storing and displaying past inspection records and data analysis results helps track equipment status change trends and evaluate maintenance effects. The interactive interface 8 supports remote access, allowing technicians to monitor, control and diagnose faults even when they are away from the site.

[0046] Preferably, the monitoring module 5 and the identification module 6 are electrically connected to the calculation control module 15;

[0047] The recognition module 6 includes a camera, which is an infrared camera;

[0048] The monitoring module 5 includes a temperature sensor, a humidity sensor and a noise sensor.

[0049] This means that all data collected by the monitoring and identification module will be transmitted to the computing and control module for processing. This design ensures the real-time integration and analysis of data, and the computing and control module 15 makes corresponding decisions or adjustments based on these data, such as instructing the robot to take specific actions, adjust the inspection route, or send an alarm.

[0050] Robots using infrared cameras have night vision or penetrating observation capabilities, and can effectively identify targets in low-light environments or even in complete darkness. This is particularly beneficial for night inspections, confined space monitoring, or tasks that require observation through adverse conditions such as smoke and fog, enhancing the robot's all-weather operation capabilities.

[0051] Temperature Sensors: The ability to measure the temperature of the environment or specific equipment surfaces is critical to preventing overheating, fire risks, and assessing equipment operating status.

[0052] Humidity Sensors: Monitor the humidity level in the air, which is important for protecting electronic devices from moisture damage, assessing environmental comfort, or predicting certain weather events.

[0053] Noise sensor: By monitoring background noise or the sound generated when specific equipment is running, it can help identify abnormal sounds, such as mechanical wear, abnormal noise at the beginning of a failure, etc. It is an effective tool for predictive maintenance and fault diagnosis.

[0054] Preferably, the computing control module 15 includes a central processing unit and a graphics processing unit for advanced data processing;

[0055] The body motion module 2 includes a driving system and a rotation system, and is used to control the movement of the body 1 in real time.

[0056] The computing control module 15 integrates a central processing unit (CPU) and a graphics processing unit (GPU): the robot has powerful data processing and analysis capabilities. The central processing unit is responsible for performing basic logic control, task scheduling and other operations, while the graphics processing unit is particularly good at processing large-scale parallel computing tasks, such as image recognition, deep learning algorithms, etc. This combination can not only efficiently process a large amount of raw data received from the monitoring and recognition modules, but also execute complex algorithm models to achieve higher-level data analysis and intelligent decision-making, such as predictive maintenance analysis, behavior pattern recognition, etc.

[0057] The body motion module 2 is composed of a drive system and a rotation system, which ensures the maneuverability and flexibility of the robot in the actual environment. The drive system provides the necessary power to drive the robot forward, backward, accelerate or decelerate, while the rotation system is responsible for controlling the direction change and steering of the robot, including the flexible rotation of the monitoring and identification module on the column 4 to expand the field of view and monitoring range. The collaborative work of the two enables the robot to adapt to different terrains, accurately execute the established inspection path, and quickly adjust its posture to avoid obstacles when encountering them.

[0058] Preferably, the obstacle avoidance module 12 includes a laser radar, an ultrasonic sensor and a camera for obstacle recognition and avoidance.

[0059] The obstacle avoidance module 12 integrates lidar, ultrasonic sensors and cameras: the comprehensive sensor suite provides multiple safeguards for the robot, ensuring efficient obstacle avoidance capabilities in different environmental conditions.

[0060] LiDAR measures the distance to surrounding objects by emitting laser pulses and receiving reflected pulses, thus building a high-precision three-dimensional environmental map. This technology is particularly good at long-distance measurement and accurate distance measurement, and can work effectively even in dim light or complex environments, providing detailed environmental information for robot navigation and obstacle avoidance.

[0061] Ultrasonic sensors determine the distance of obstacles ahead by sending ultrasonic waves and receiving echoes. They are suitable for close-range detection, especially for providing supplementary information in scenarios where lidar may be limited. Ultrasonic waves also have good recognition capabilities for soft obstacles.

[0062] Cameras, especially if used in conjunction with the previous description with infrared-enabled cameras, can not only provide visual image information and enhance awareness of environmental details, but can also work in low-light or no-light environments, identifying features such as color, texture, and shape, helping to distinguish different types of obstacles and improve the accuracy and safety of obstacle avoidance.

[0063] Preferably, the power module 11 includes two power supplies, one for backup and one for use, and the solar panel 7 is electrically connected to the power supply.

[0064] The power module 11 adopts a two-power design: the robot is equipped with two power systems: the main power supply and the backup power supply. Under normal circumstances, the robot is powered by the main power supply, while the backup power supply is on standby. Once the main power supply fails or runs out of power, the system can seamlessly switch to the backup power supply to continue powering without manual intervention, greatly reducing the risk of operation interruption caused by power problems and ensuring the continuity and stability of inspection tasks.

[0065] The solar panel 7 provides a green and sustainable way to replenish energy for the robot. The solar panel 7 absorbs sunlight and converts it into electrical energy, directly charging the power module or directly supplying power when there is sufficient sunlight. Reliance on external charging facilities is reduced, especially in scenarios where the robot is working outdoors for a long time or is deployed in remote areas, solar power supply becomes an efficient and environmentally friendly energy source. The electrical connection between the solar panel and the power module ensures efficient conversion and storage of energy, allowing the robot to continuously replenish its energy during the day, extend its independent working time, and improve overall energy efficiency and working performance.

[0066] Preferably, the navigation and positioning module 14 includes a high-precision GPS unit and an IMU unit to achieve precise positioning.

[0067] The high-precision GPS unit is a global positioning system unit responsible for receiving signals from satellites and calculating the absolute geographic location of the robot. Compared with standard GPS, high-precision GPS improves positioning accuracy to centimeter level by adopting differential GPS technology or other enhancement technologies. This allows the robot to obtain extremely accurate location information even in open areas or near known coordinates, which is crucial for planning accurate inspection routes and determining target locations.

[0068] The IMU unit contains an accelerometer and a gyroscope, which can measure the robot's angular velocity and linear acceleration, thereby calculating its posture and motion trajectory in three-dimensional space. Even in an environment where the GPS signal is weak or temporarily lost, the IMU can provide continuous motion data to help maintain the robot's heading estimation and short-term positioning, ensuring navigation continuity and stability.

[0069] The communication module 13 includes a wireless local area network and a cellular network, and is used to achieve remote connection and Bluetooth-assisted device interaction.

[0070] By integrating wireless LAN functions, the robot can establish a high-speed connection with the local network in areas covered by WiFi. This enables the robot to upload collected data to a cloud server in real time, or receive instructions and updates from the server to achieve remote monitoring and control. In industrial environments or internal networks, the use of WLAN can ensure efficient and secure data transmission.

[0071] The communication module that supports cellular networks enables the robot to communicate with the remote control center or cloud platform anywhere in the world, as long as there is a cellular signal. This is especially important for intelligent inspection robots that need to perform tasks across a wide geographical area, ensuring that the robot can remain online even in places far away from the base or without WiFi coverage, enabling remote management, data synchronization and emergency response.

[0072] Integrated Bluetooth functionality allows the robot to communicate with other nearby devices or accessories in low-power, short-range wireless communications. This is very useful in scenarios such as device configuration, data exchange, or asset tracking with Bluetooth tags. For example, Bluetooth can be used to connect external sensors, maintenance tools, or operators' mobile devices to facilitate device calibration, data downloads, or quick setting changes, increasing the interactivity and convenience of the robot in practical applications.

[0073] Preferably, a rotating mechanism 3 is provided between the column 4 and the body 1, and the rotating mechanism 3 is used to drive the identification module 6 and the monitoring module 5 on the column 4 to rotate, so that various data can be collected from multiple angles and in all directions.

[0074] The column 4 and the identification module 6 and monitoring module 5 carried thereon can rotate freely in the vertical direction without being affected by the posture of the body 1. This means that even when the body is moving or adjusting its direction, the monitoring and identification modules can continue to track and scan a specific target or environment.

[0075] The recognition module 6 and the monitoring module 5 can achieve 360-degree rotation or adjust up and down within a certain angle range, ensuring full coverage of the surrounding environment and no-blind-angle monitoring. This is essential for capturing target information at different heights and angles, especially in complex or intensive facility inspections, and can more accurately identify potential problems and abnormal situations.

[0076] By flexibly rotating, the robot can adjust the angle and range of monitoring and identification according to actual needs, optimizing the quality of data collection. For example, in a small space, the camera can be rotated upward to view the status of equipment at a high place; in an open environment, a 360-degree panoramic scan can be performed to collect a wider range of environmental data. This dynamic adjustment capability improves the robot's adaptability and inspection efficiency in various environments, ensuring the integrity and accuracy of data collection.

[0077] Preferably, the obstacle-clearing cone 9 is slidably connected to the machine body 1 through a plurality of guide posts 10, and a spring is provided on the outer side of the guide post 10, and the two ends of the spring are respectively against the obstacle-clearing cone 9 and the machine body 1;

[0078] A sliding bearing is provided between the guide column 10 and the body 1 , and a limit block is fixedly provided at the end of the guide column 10 .

[0079] The setting of the spring enables the obstacle-clearing cone 9 to be appropriately compressed when encountering resistance, absorbs the impact force, protects the guide column 10 and the structure of the body 1 from damage, and also helps the cone to automatically return to its original position after the obstacle is cleared. The two ends of the spring are respectively fixed to the obstacle-clearing cone 9 and the body 1, ensuring the stable operation of this automatic recovery mechanism.

[0080] The sliding bearing between the guide column 10 and the body 1 reduces friction, making the telescopic action of the obstacle removal cone 9 smoother and more labor-saving, extending the service life of the mechanical parts and reducing noise.

[0081] The limit block fixed at the end of the guide column 10 plays a limiting role, ensuring that the extension and retraction of the obstacle removal cone 9 are carried out within a safe range, preventing structural damage caused by excessive extension or affecting the balance of the robot.

[0082] Application scenario: In industrial parks, the robot can regularly inspect equipment and pipelines, using its monitoring module 5 and identification module 6 to detect temperature anomalies, equipment wear or leakage, and transmit data to the central monitoring system in real time through the communication module 13.

[0083] The robot can also be used for night patrols. For urban public facilities, the robot can inspect facilities such as street lighting, traffic lights and public seats. Cameras and sensors are used to detect damage or failures and notify the maintenance team through the communication module 13.

[0084] Near public places such as hospitals or schools, robots can be used to monitor ambient noise levels and air quality to ensure a healthy and comfortable environment for people.

[0085] In border patrols or forest reserves, robots can be used to monitor illegal border crossings or logging. Their long endurance and all-weather operation capabilities are particularly suitable for patrolling large areas.

[0086] In underground parking lots or multi-storey parking buildings, the robot can inspect parking order, detect and report any illegal parking or suspicious behavior, while the navigation and positioning module 14 helps to quickly locate the specific area.

[0087] These scenarios demonstrate the diverse applications of intelligent inspection robots in different environments. They improve safety, efficiency and accuracy through automated and intelligent inspection work.

[0088] The above embodiments are only preferred technical solutions of the present invention and should not be regarded as limitations of the present invention. The protection scope of the present invention shall be the technical solutions recorded in the claims, including equivalent replacement solutions of the technical features in the technical solutions recorded in the claims. That is, equivalent replacement improvements within this scope are also within the protection scope of the present invention.

Claims

1. An intelligent inspection robot, characterized by: The invention comprises a body (1), the body (1) is equipped with a rotating column (4), the top of the column (4) is provided with a monitoring module (5), an identification module (6) and a solar panel (7), the front of the body (1) is provided with a sliding obstacle-clearing cone (9), and the rear of the body (1) is provided with an interactive interface (8); It also includes a power module (11), a body motion module (2), an obstacle avoidance module (12), a communication module (13), a navigation and positioning module (14), and a calculation control module (15); The power module (11) is used to provide power to all systems and components of the robot; The obstacle avoidance module (12) is used to detect obstacles on the robot's path to avoid collision; The communication module (13) is used for communication between the robot and the external system; The monitoring module (5) and the identification module (6) are used to collect environmental monitoring data; The navigation and positioning module (14) is used to determine the precise position of the robot and plan the inspection path; The computing control module (15) is used to process the data collected by the monitoring and identification module and perform data analysis and decision making.

2. The intelligent inspection robot according to claim 1, characterized in that: The interactive interface (8) is used to display the status information collected by the monitoring module (5) and the identification module (6).

3. The intelligent inspection robot according to claim 1, characterized in that: The monitoring module (5) and the identification module (6) are electrically connected to the calculation control module (15); The recognition module (6) includes a camera, which is an infrared camera; The monitoring module (5) includes a temperature sensor, a humidity sensor and a noise sensor.

4. The intelligent inspection robot according to claim 1, characterized in that: The computing control module (15) includes a central processing unit and a graphics processing unit for advanced data processing; The body movement module (2) comprises a driving system and a rotation system, and is used to control the movement of the body (1) in real time.

5. The intelligent inspection robot according to claim 1, characterized in that: The obstacle avoidance module (12) comprises a laser radar, an ultrasonic sensor and a camera, and is used for obstacle recognition and obstacle avoidance.

6. The intelligent inspection robot according to claim 1, characterized in that: The power module (11) comprises two power supplies, one for backup and one for use, and the solar panel (7) is electrically connected to the power supply.

7. The intelligent inspection robot according to claim 1, characterized in that: The navigation and positioning module (14) includes a high-precision GPS unit and an IMU unit to achieve precise positioning; The communication module (13) includes a wireless local area network and a cellular network, and is used to achieve remote connection and Bluetooth-assisted device interaction.

8. The intelligent inspection robot according to claim 1, characterized in that: A rotating mechanism (3) is provided between the column (4) and the body (1), and the rotating mechanism (3) is used to drive the identification module (6) and the monitoring module (5) on the column (4) to rotate.

9. The intelligent inspection robot according to claim 1, characterized in that: The obstacle-clearing cone surface (9) is slidably connected to the machine body (1) via a plurality of guide columns (10); a spring is provided on the outer side of the guide column (10), and two ends of the spring respectively abut against the obstacle-clearing cone surface (9) and the machine body (1); A sliding bearing is provided between the guide column (10) and the machine body (1), and a limit block is fixedly provided at the end of the guide column (10).

Citation Information

Cited By

  • Intelligent agricultural robot based on visual positioning

    CN120044952A