Robotic Climbing Frame for Vertical Surface Imaging
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for inspecting substantially vertical surfaces of structures, such as buildings, are hazardous for human operators, limited by weather conditions, and inefficient, as they require manual access and equipment-intensive preparations.
Innovation Solution
A robotic surface imaging system with a frame body parallel to the surface, attached to cables for vertical movement and buffer portions for stabilization, equipped with imaging devices that can capture high-quality images of vertical surfaces, allowing for safe and efficient inspection.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If human operators use harnesses and movable scaffolds to manually inspect vertical surfaces, then they can access and record surface images, but substantial safety risks and human error occur
Solution Approach 1:
The robotic system performs self-propelled movement along the vertical surface using climbing mechanisms with adhesives or friction-based buffers, eliminating the need for human operators to physically access hazardous areas. The system autonomously navigates, images, and returns without human intervention during the inspection process.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical harness and scaffold system with a robotic platform that uses controlled friction, adhesives, or magnetic attachment to climb vertical surfaces. This substitution eliminates the safety risks associated with human-operated mechanical access systems while maintaining the ability to reach and image vertical surfaces.
2Adaptability or versatility
If human inspectors manually access vertical surfaces, then they can perform inspections, but limited physical capabilities and weather constraints reduce effectiveness
Solution Approach 1:
The robotic system is designed with universal adaptability to operate in various weather conditions (rain, wind, temperature extremes) that would limit human performance. The system incorporates weather-resistant electronics, sealed components, and controlled propulsion mechanisms that maintain consistent imaging capability regardless of environmental conditions.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses high-resolution cameras and imaging sensors to create detailed digital copies of the vertical surface, achieving superior image quality compared to human visual inspection. The imaging system captures high-definition photographs and videos that can be analyzed without human physical limitations.
3Length of moving object
If propelled aerial drones are used to access hard-to-reach areas, then they can reach vertical surfaces, but limited load bearing capacity and wind resilience occur
Solution Approach 1:
The robotic system uses dynamic climbing mechanisms that adjust their attachment force and propulsion method based on the specific vertical surface characteristics. The system can switch between adhesive attachment, friction-based climbing, or magnetic attachment depending on the surface material, allowing it to reach high vertical surfaces while distributing load effectively.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of relying on aerial flight in three-dimensional space, the system transitions to two-dimensional surface traversal by climbing directly along the vertical surface. This dimensional change allows the system to achieve greater vertical reach by following the surface contour rather than attempting to hover or fly at extreme heights, thereby reducing wind susceptibility and improving load bearing capacity.
4Productivity
If manual inspection methods are used, then human operators can review findings, but time-consuming preparation and execution occur
Solution Approach 1:
The robotic system performs preliminary autonomous navigation and positioning before imaging begins, allowing for continuous inspection without interruptions for manual repositioning. The system pre-plans its climbing path and automatically sequences its imaging operations, eliminating the time losses associated with manual setup and transitions.
Solution Approach 2:
The robotic system maintains continuous imaging and movement along the vertical surface without interruption. The autonomous control system ensures uninterrupted operation, and the system automatically transitions between climbing and imaging modes without requiring human intervention, thereby maximizing productivity and minimizing total inspection time.
Data Source
AI summary
A frame body may be parallel to and proximate with a surface of a structure and extend substantially horizontally from a first side to a second side. At least one first connecting portion may be attached to a first cable to provide for vertical movement of the frame body, and at least one second connection portion may be attached to a second cable to limit undesired movement of the frame body and/or provide constant tension. At least one buffer portion may be located proximate the first side to move vertically on the surface, and at least one buffer portion may be located proximate the second side to move vertically on the surface. A surface imaging device attached to the frame body may let the system image a structure's substantially vertical surface (e.g., an optical camera may photograph an exterior wall of a building as the frame body is moved).