The vacuum robot can move on any vertical surfaces (2 photos)

The use of special robots capable ofmoving on vertical surfaces in the future will greatly simplify the implementation of many operations related to the construction and maintenance of high-rise buildings. However, if, when moving on a smooth surface, the technical capabilities of robots are quite predictable when using vacuum suction cups, then when moving along a rough surface with an incorrect relief, standard vacuum suction cups do not work due to gaps and vacuum leakage.

Experts from the American Institute of Physics (stateMaryland) Xin Li and Kaiji Shi were able to solve this technical problem by proposing a unique design of a vacuum suction cup. Scientists have proposed using the zero differential method (ZPD) when creating suction cups, which eliminates the possibility of vacuum depressurization.

The method overcame ZPD to limit leakage,uses a high-speed rotating water ring between the surface and the suction cup to maintain a vacuum. The centrifugal force of the rotating water eliminates the pressure drop at the boundary of the vacuum zone, which helps maintain a high vacuum pressure inside the suction cup.

Inventors are currently working onthe problem of water flow during this operation. In the case of creating a closed cycle in which the spider robot will use the same water from an autonomous tank, there will be the possibility of practical use of these devices.

Source: phys