18523359. MOTORIZED APPARATUS INCLUDING WHEELS simplified abstract (GENERAL ELECTRIC COMPANY)

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MOTORIZED APPARATUS INCLUDING WHEELS

Organization Name

GENERAL ELECTRIC COMPANY

Inventor(s)

Todd William Danko of Niskayuna NY (US)

Alexander Kyle Duncan of Niskayuna NY (US)

MOTORIZED APPARATUS INCLUDING WHEELS - A simplified explanation of the abstract

This abstract first appeared for US patent application 18523359 titled 'MOTORIZED APPARATUS INCLUDING WHEELS

Simplified Explanation

The motorized apparatus described in the patent application is designed to maintain a pipe by moving along its sidewall and interacting with it using drive mechanisms. Here is a simplified explanation of the patent application:

  • Body assembly extends along a longitudinal axis
  • Maintenance device(s) coupled to the body assembly
  • Leg assemblies coupled circumferentially around the body assembly
  • Drive mechanisms coupled to the leg assemblies
  • Drive mechanisms include at least two wheels
  • Drive mechanisms can move the body assembly parallel and perpendicular to the longitudinal axis, as well as rotate it around the longitudinal axis

Potential Applications

The motorized apparatus can be used for inspecting and maintaining pipes in various industries such as oil and gas, water management, and construction.

Problems Solved

The motorized apparatus eliminates the need for manual inspection and maintenance of pipes, reducing the risk of human error and improving efficiency.

Benefits

Some benefits of this technology include increased accuracy in pipe maintenance, reduced labor costs, and improved safety for workers.

Potential Commercial Applications

The motorized apparatus can be commercially used by pipeline inspection companies, maintenance contractors, and utility companies for regular maintenance and inspection of pipes.

Possible Prior Art

One possible prior art for this technology could be robotic devices used for pipe inspection and maintenance in industrial settings.

Unanswered Questions

How does the motorized apparatus handle bends or curves in the pipe?

The patent application does not provide specific details on how the motorized apparatus navigates bends or curves in the pipe. Further information on the maneuverability of the device in such situations would be helpful.

What materials are the drive mechanisms made of to ensure durability and longevity?

The patent application does not mention the materials used for the drive mechanisms. Understanding the materials used and their properties would be important for assessing the durability and longevity of the motorized apparatus.


Original Abstract Submitted

A motorized apparatus for use in maintaining a pipe having a sidewall defining an interior cavity is provided. The motorized apparatus includes a body assembly extending along a longitudinal axis, at least one maintenance device coupled to the body assembly, and a plurality of leg assemblies coupled circumferentially around the body assembly. The motorized apparatus also includes a plurality of drive mechanisms coupled to the plurality of leg assemblies. The plurality of drive mechanisms are configured to interact with the sidewall. The plurality of drive mechanisms include at least two wheels. The plurality of drive mechanisms are arranged to move the body assembly in a first direction parallel to the longitudinal axis, move the body assembly in a second direction perpendicular to the longitudinal axis, and rotate the body assembly around the longitudinal axis.