Robots for Confined Spaces
There are many industries where gaining access to a confined or hazardous space is a formidable problem. OC Robotics provides the solution in the form of snake-arm robots.
The confined space problem
Confined and hazardous spaces are omnipresent in a variety of industries. Confined spaces are often difficult or impossible to access with a human, but are often also the spaces which require the most inspection and maintenance. The images below present typical confined space challenges in which snake-arm robots can provide a valuable service, including in-wing inspection and working, and nuclear plant inspection and maintenance.
Snake-arm robot solution
Snake-arm robots do not have prominent elbows that potentially snag or cause damage to sensitive equipment, and they are easily manoeuvred into position and retracted back without disturbing their environment.
Nose following principle
The best way to reach inside a confined space is to snake inside, with the body of the snake following the tip. This is called nose-following.
Snake-Arm Simulator
Free simulation software based on our advanced Snake-arm software suite
Solutions
Industrial Applications
OC Robotics has experts dedicated to analysing problems in any industrial setting. The number of different applications for snake-arm® robots is continually increasing to embrace new sectors
Nuclear
With the problems of radiation dosage and confined spaces, the nuclear industry is a clear beneficiary of snake-arm technology. That fact is borne out by the contracts won and snake-arms delivered by OC Robotics to its nuclear clients
Aerospace
OC Robotics is working with aerospace partners, focused on aircraft assembly, to develop a comprehensive toolkit for low access assembly tasks
Technology
Arm
Select arm dimensions and number of articulated links appropriate for the required performance
Tools
Define tool appropriate for the required task
Introduction
Select introduction method. Rail&Rotate™, 3rd party robot, or a mobile vehicle
Actuator pack
Motors and power electronics can be kept accessible and outside the confined or hazardous space
User Interface
Each UI is carefully constructed to the specification and requirements of the client
