Industrial
constructions and projects are generally grand. Yet the key to successful
operation depends on little details that are often no easy access for
inspection and maintenance. The snake robotic arm invented by OC Robotics
provides an effective solution to access confined and hazardous space that is
off limits to conventional human or machines.
Designed to be slim
and flexible, the snake arm can skillfully fit and move through small gaps in
between industrial objects. The
snake-like wriggling movement is attributed to the mechanical power provided by
maxon motors (located in an actuator at the base of the robot) and
self-supporting joints to stabilize continuous changes of directions.
After the
“twisted” journey and finally reaching at the designated area, the
robot is then able to perform various tasks as the “snake head” can
be customized with various tools for different applications such as inspection,
maintenance, laser-cutting.
The snake-arm has
found applications under a number of circumstances: nuclear plant inspection
and decommissioning, construction declogging and drilling , aerospace
maintenance andsecurity threat
inspection and removal. The use could be furthered into rescue missions. The OC
Robotics has become the leading robotics manufacturers around the world since
its inception in 1997. The company was acquired by GE Aviation for a
undisclosed amount in Jun 2017.
