Robotic Crawler for Remote Cable Installation on Storage Tanks
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Solution Overview
Problem
The manual installation of fiber optic cables on structural surfaces, such as storage tanks, is inefficient and costly, requiring significant time, equipment, and posing risks to personnel, while existing methods for cable mapping lack accuracy and integration with 3D models.
Innovation Solution
A robotic crawler equipped with propulsion means, a controller, a cable feeder, and a fastener applicator, which navigates along a predetermined route, feeds the cable onto the surface, and secures it using adhesion mechanisms like magnets or suction, and applies glue for fixation, allowing for precise and remote cable laying.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If manual installation methods are used for cable laying, then personnel can directly handle and position cables, but the process is inefficient, costly, and poses safety risks to workers
Solution Approach 1:
The crawler system performs cable laying autonomously without requiring human workers to physically handle cables on elevated structures. The integrated cable feeder and fastener applicator enable the system to complete the entire installation process self-servingly, eliminating safety risks to personnel while improving installation efficiency
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual mechanical operations with an automated robotic system. The crawler uses controlled propulsion mechanisms, automated cable feeding, and programmed fastener application to substitute human labor, thereby eliminating safety hazards associated with manual cable installation on tanks and towers
2Measurement precision
If traditional cable mapping methods are used, then cable routes can be documented, but the accuracy and integration with 3D models is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The crawler system incorporates sensors and controllers that continuously monitor and record the crawler's position, orientation, and cable laying parameters. This feedback mechanism enables precise tracking of cable routes and automatic integration with 3D digital models, significantly improving mapping accuracy and information completeness
Solution Approach 2:
The system integrates multiple functions including navigation, cable feeding, fastener application, and route mapping into a single platform. The controller simultaneously manages propulsion, cable deployment, and data recording, enabling comprehensive cable route documentation with full 3D model integration in one unified system
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Enables efficient, accurate, and cost-effective cable installation, reducing the need for manual labor and improving safety by allowing continuous monitoring of storage tank components, such as floating roof seals, thereby enhancing environmental protection and compliance with regulatory requirements.
Implementation Method 1
The magnetic wheels are configured to exert an attractive force greater than the weight of the crawler when the crawler is attached to a steel structure
Implementation Method 2
The suction means may comprise a skirt for enclosing a volume between the crawler and the surface, and a fan for evacuating air from the enclosed volume
Implementation Method 3
The fastener applicator may be configured to apply liquid glue to the surface and the cable or cable assembly to fasten the cable or cable assembly to the surface
Data Source
AI summary
Apparatus and methods for remotely laying cable. A crawler comprises a propulsion means for moving the crawler along a surface. A controller stores the route followed by the crawler. As the crawler moves along the surface a cable is fed onto the surface. A fastener is then used to affix the cable to the surface.