Remote Spray Arm with Camera Feedback for Confined Spaces
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing technologies face challenges in efficiently spraying insulation materials within confined and hard-to-reach spaces, requiring operators to physically access tight areas for effective coverage.
Innovation Solution
A remotely operated robotic device with an extendable electromechanical arm and spray nozzle system, allowing operators to control the spray nozzle from a distance, featuring telescopic extension, modular design, and adjustable angles for precise coverage, along with a camera for feedback and intuitive operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If operators physically access tight areas to spray insulation materials, then effective coverage in confined spaces is achieved, but operator safety and ease of operation deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a remotely operated spray device as an intermediary between the operator and the confined space. The device includes a spray nozzle mounted on an extendable arm or robotic manipulator that can be controlled from outside the enclosed space through a viewing port or opening, eliminating the need for operators to physically enter tight areas while maintaining spraying capability
Solution Approach 2:
The spray system is segmented into separate functional components: the spray nozzle assembly, the extendable support structure, and the remote control mechanism. This segmentation allows the spraying function to be separated from the operator, enabling remote operation through openings while the nozzle accesses confined spaces independently
2Ease of operation
If a remote spray system is implemented, then operator safety is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The remote control mechanism is designed with multi-functionality to reduce overall system complexity. The control system integrates multiple functions including spray activation, nozzle positioning, and material flow control into a single unified interface that the operator can manage from outside the enclosed space
Solution Approach 2:
The system incorporates feedback mechanisms such as cameras or sensors mounted on the spray device that transmit visual or operational data back to the operator. This feedback loop enables the operator to monitor the spraying process and adjust controls in real-time without physical presence in the confined space, simplifying the remote operation
3Device complexity
If the spray nozzle is fixed relative to the elongate member, then device complexity is reduced, but manufacturing precision and coverage accuracy deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The spray nozzle is mounted for movement relative to the distal end of the elongate member, allowing dynamic adjustment of the nozzle position and angle. This dynamic mounting enables the nozzle to be positioned precisely at different locations and orientations to achieve accurate coverage of various surface geometries while maintaining a relatively simple overall device structure
Data Source
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AI summary
Apparatus for spraying a material on a surface comprises at least one elongate member (408) having a distal end and a proximal end, at least one spray nozzle (1404) mounted at the distal end of the elongate member for spraying the material in a spray pattern, a ground-engaging member (1420) mounted at the distal end of the elongate member and arranged to facilitate translational movement of the apparatus over a ground surface, a camera (1406) mounted at the distal end of the elongate member (1408) and connected to a camera output, the camera being arranged for capturing images of the spray pattern and the camera output being arranged to facilitate the viewing of images of the spray pattern from the proximal end of the elongate member, and a control mechanism arranged to control the operation of the spray nozzle from the proximal end of the elongate member.