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 Robotics / 1740
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Subject: 
PipeXplorer
Newsgroups: 
lugnet.robotics
Date: 
Wed, 23 Dec 1998 00:40:58 GMT
Original-From: 
Laurentino Martins <LAU@MAIL.TELEPAC.ihatespamPT>
Viewed: 
1110 times
  
I'm thinking in building a bot for exploring pipes and conduits with my CyberMaster.

Here's the idea:
It must be small enough to fit inside a pipe and also to be able to make turns without major problems (although turns are not my first priority).
It will "attach" itself to the walls of the pipe by pressing against the sides of it with wheels/tracks in at least 2 opposite directions, and pressing with enough strength to be able to climb a vertical pipe if necessary (important!).
It also must be able to stretch itself to adapt to larger pipes at runtime.
I'm confident the CyberMaster radio link might be able to pick the tower even on long pipes if I place it near the opening, so I might be able to command the unit it by hand using a joystick or keyboard.
Later maybe I may be able to place a light and a camera on it. Of course it would have to drag a cable behind it, but strength to do this should not be a major problem.
Right now I'm more interested in creating the mechanics for this...

Comments?


Laurentino Martins   *<||:-)

[mailto:lau@mail.telepac.pt]
[http://www.terravista.pt/Enseada/2808/]



Message has 5 Replies:
  RE: PipeXplorer
 
(...) The pipe in effect becomes a wave guide. Interesting physics problem. I would be very interested to see whether this works. Good luck. Carl (26 years ago, 23-Dec-98, to lugnet.robotics)
  RE: PipeXplorer
 
(...) <snip> (...) Sounds like an interesting project. Are you planning on doing it in 100% lego as a brain exercise or are you willing to cheat to get it going? Will the tracks be sping mounted to push against the sides of the pipe, or will they be (...) (26 years ago, 23-Dec-98, to lugnet.robotics)
  RE: PipeXplorer
 
It sounds fine! Two simple questions: What the pipes are made of? Some materials can be a problem respect to the radio link. What kind of pipes are you thinking about? I mean, they must have a "big" diameter to allow the bot to move inside. David (...) (26 years ago, 23-Dec-98, to lugnet.robotics)
  RE: PipeXplorer
 
Well, the project didn't even started yet, but I'm thinking on it seriously. I see some problems in design because I'm a LEGO purist and I'm not sure if I can make it small enough to be of any use. Also, I don't know yet if I can devise a way to (...) (26 years ago, 23-Dec-98, to lugnet.robotics)
  Re: PipeXplorer
 
I have no suggestions for the time being, but I am working on a similar project. If your work progresses I would be very glad to share ideas and experiences with you along the way. F-M. Mellbin This E-mail is sent from my work-station, please reply (...) (25 years ago, 4-Jan-99, to lugnet.robotics)

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