20240025497. HYBRID SURFACE-TRAVERSING APPARATUS AND METHOD simplified abstract (International Climbing Machines, Inc.)

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HYBRID SURFACE-TRAVERSING APPARATUS AND METHOD

Organization Name

International Climbing Machines, Inc.

Inventor(s)

Samuel J. Maggio of Millport NY (US)

HYBRID SURFACE-TRAVERSING APPARATUS AND METHOD - A simplified explanation of the abstract

This abstract first appeared for US patent application 20240025497 titled 'HYBRID SURFACE-TRAVERSING APPARATUS AND METHOD

Simplified Explanation

The invention is a hybrid surface traversing apparatus that can adhere to a surface (submerged or in air) using a non-flow-through pressure differential. The apparatus includes a frame with a chamber, a seal (such as closed-cell foam) that has a closed seal perimeter defining an opening of the chamber, a suction pump to create the pressure differential and adhere the apparatus to the surface, and a drive to move the apparatus relative to the surface.

  • The apparatus is designed to adhere to a surface using a non-flow-through pressure differential.
  • It includes a frame with a chamber and a seal with a closed seal perimeter.
  • The seal is adapted for rolling relative to the chamber and for contact with the surface to prevent leakage and maintain a non-flow-through seal.
  • A suction pump is used to create the pressure differential and cooperate with the seal to adhere the apparatus to the surface.
  • The apparatus also has a drive mechanism to move it relative to the surface.

Potential applications of this technology:

  • Underwater exploration and inspection: The apparatus can be used to traverse underwater surfaces, allowing for exploration and inspection of underwater structures, pipelines, or marine life.
  • Industrial cleaning: The apparatus can adhere to surfaces in industrial settings, such as tanks or pipes, to perform cleaning operations without the need for manual intervention.
  • Maintenance and repair: The apparatus can be used to access and repair hard-to-reach surfaces, such as the exterior of buildings or bridges, without the need for scaffolding or other support structures.

Problems solved by this technology:

  • Adhesion to surfaces: The apparatus provides a reliable and efficient method of adhering to various surfaces, including submerged or in-air surfaces, without the need for adhesives or other complex mechanisms.
  • Non-flow-through seal: The seal perimeter of the apparatus prevents leakage and maintains a non-flow-through seal with the surface, ensuring that the pressure differential is maintained and the apparatus remains securely adhered.

Benefits of this technology:

  • Versatility: The apparatus can be used on a wide range of surfaces, both submerged and in air, making it suitable for various applications in different environments.
  • Efficiency: The non-flow-through seal and pressure differential mechanism allow for efficient adhesion to surfaces, reducing the need for manual labor or complex equipment.
  • Safety: The apparatus eliminates the need for workers to physically access hazardous or hard-to-reach areas, improving safety during inspection, maintenance, and repair operations.


Original Abstract Submitted

the invention relates to a hybrid surface traversing apparatus adapted to be adhered to a (e.g., submerged or in air) surface by a non-flow-through pressure differential, the apparatus includes a frame forming a chamber; a seal (e.g., closed-cell foam) having a closed seal perimeter (e.g., a closed polygon, a quadrilateral, and the like) defining an opening of the chamber, the seal perimeter adapted substantially for rolling relative to the chamber and for contact with the surface to be traversed to prevent leakage and maintain a non-flow-through seal with the surface; a suction pump structured and arranged to produce the (e.g., negative) pressure differential and cooperate with the seal to adhere the apparatus to the surface; and a drive configured to move the apparatus relative to the surface.