Design and simulation of a 3D-printed wall-climbing robot for high-risk construction tasks

Abstract

This study aims to design and calculate a model for a wall-climbing robot to replace humans in performing dangerous tasks at great heights in construction sites. The research simultaneously addresses three main issues in the process of calculation, design, and simulation of the vertically climbing robot model. Firstly, the study conducts calculations and analyzes the dynamics of the model in various working states. Specifically, it calculates the suction force of the fan in non-contact conditions to ensure the suction capability of the model during practical operations. Secondly, the core content of this method involves utilizing the airflow generated by the engine through a specially designed suction mechanism to increase the airflow velocity significantly, thus creating a low-pressure area capable of adhering to the wall. This suction force calculation method and other forces acting on the robot model are based on numerical simulation software. The boundary conditions in the calculation process for the wall-climbing robot model are derived from the tasks that the robot performs during real operations, replacing humans. Thirdly, the study designs the wall-climbing robot using the non-contact suction force method through a 3D-printed fan model to enhance the model’s durability and optimize the airflow under various conditions. In summary, through this research, the paper aims to construct a robot model using non-contact suction and complete it entirely with 3D printing technology. This model will generate cost-effective and highly efficient robot vehicles that can be widely applied in modern industrial environments.