Segmented Robotic Abrasive Blaster for Confined Spaces
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing abrasive blasting technologies pose safety concerns due to exposure to toxic materials and noise, particularly in inaccessible areas like shipboard tanks, where human operators face hazardous conditions.
Innovation Solution
A remotely operated abrasive blasting apparatus with a segmented chassis and peristaltic motion, equipped with a conduit for abrasive media and propelling fluid, allows for safe treatment of surfaces without human operators, using sensors and a processor to assess and conduct the blasting operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Object-affected harmful factors
If human operators use traditional abrasive blasting equipment, then the treatment can be performed with simple equipment design, but the operators are exposed to toxic materials and hazardous conditions
Solution Approach 1:
The robotic blasting apparatus is divided into multiple articulated segments that can flex and adapt to confined spaces. Each segment contains blasting nozzles and can be independently controlled, allowing the system to navigate complex geometries while maintaining safety distance from operators
Solution Approach 2:
A flexible robotic arm acts as an intermediary between the operator and the blasting operation. The arm transmits blasting media and propelling fluid through internal conduits to nozzles at the end effector, eliminating direct operator exposure while maintaining control
2Reliability
If remotely operated apparatus is used to eliminate operator exposure, then operator safety is improved, but the equipment complexity and device structure become more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The robotic blasting apparatus integrates multiple functions into a single system: propulsion through confined spaces, surface navigation using grips, abrasive media delivery, and blasting operation. This consolidation reduces the need for multiple separate systems while maintaining operator safety
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses pneumatic propulsion to move the robotic apparatus through confined spaces and hydraulic/pneumatic actuators to control the articulated segments and gripping mechanisms, enabling remote operation without complex mechanical linkages
3Adaptability or versatility
If traditional abrasive blasting equipment is used in confined spaces, then the equipment design can be simpler, but the treatment of inaccessible areas becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The robotic apparatus features dynamically adjustable articulated segments that can change their configuration to adapt to different confined space geometries. The segments can flex, extend, and reposition to access areas that would be inaccessible to rigid traditional equipment
Solution Approach 2:
The robotic arm utilizes flexible structures and thin-walled conduits that can bend and conform to the contours of confined spaces such as shipboard tanks and voids, enabling access to previously inaccessible areas while maintaining structural integrity
4Productivity
If human operators perform abrasive blasting in shipboard tanks, then the work can be completed with standard equipment, but the labor intensity and hazard level increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The robotic blasting apparatus is equipped with autonomous navigation capabilities and self-positioning mechanisms that allow it to move through confined spaces and maintain optimal blasting positions without continuous human intervention, reducing labor intensity while improving safety
Solution Approach 2:
The system incorporates sensors and feedback mechanisms that monitor blasting progress, surface conditions, and apparatus position in real-time, allowing automated adjustment of blasting parameters and navigation to maintain productivity while eliminating operator exposure to hazardous environments
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
The solution enhances operator safety, improves surface treatment quality, and enables efficient handling of hazardous materials like silica, allowing for precise and thorough abrasive blasting in confined spaces.
Implementation Method 1
The abrasive blasting apparatus is moved through a space using peristaltic action to an area to be treated
Implementation Method 2
the segmented chassis including a pump for propulsive fluid, tubing for moving propulsive fluid through the segmented chassis
Implementation Method 3
blasting abrasive propelling fluid and abrasive media at the area to be treated
Data Source
AI summary
A remotely operated abrasive blasting apparatus is provided. Systems incorporating the apparatus, and methods of treating surfaces using the apparatus and systems are also provided. The abrasive blasting apparatus eliminates the need for human operators to be present in the area being treated, and allows areas inaccessible to human operators to be treated.