Surface adhering tool carrying robot

Details Surface adhering tool carrying robot Surface adhering tool carrying robot

2006-12-26

2006-12-26

Black, Thomas G. (Department: 3661)

Data processing: generic control systems or specific application

Specific application, apparatus or process

Robot control

C700S258000, C180S007100, C180S008100, C180S164000, C318S068000, C318S568120, C015S021100, C015S053400, C015S317000, C015S327100, C294S064200

Reexamination Certificate

active

07155307

ABSTRACT:
A surface clinging robotic device. The device includes a supporting structure or base, on which is mounted (a) a lead pivoting support surface, such as a pivoting wheel, and (b) two or more traction drives, such as drive wheels. Each of the traction drives are independently driven by a separate drive motor. A plurality of vacuum cups are mounted on the bottom of the base. The vacuum cups each have a low friction foot designed for movement over a surface with minimal friction while vacuum is maintained. The low friction foot portion is provided by a generally surface direction oriented C-shaped Teflon skin. The robotic device can move over gaps or obstructions in the surface without losing vacuum in all of the vacuum cups, using a fluid limiting valve at each vacuum cup to interrupt flow in the event of loss of vacuum in that vacuum cup.

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