Mobile Wall-Climbing Robot for NDT inspection of vertical concrete structures

Abstract

Concrete structures, such as bridges or viaducts, play an important role in global road infrastructure. These types of structures are relatively expensive to build and they are susceptible to outer external influences, which in time deteriorate and lead to the reduction of their structural resistance. To reduce this effect, regular inspection is needed, which is often done manually by using specialized equipment to reach certain parts of bridges and viaducts. This process is both expensive and dangerous for the inspectors to conduct. Within the research project ASAP (Autonomous System for Assessment and Prediction of Infrastructure Integrity) in order to overcome these challenges, we have developed a prototype of a wall-climbing robot (WCR) for nondestructive testing (NDT). In this paper, different iterations of the developed WCR prototypes are presented. In four consecutive prototype designs, we have evaluated and upgraded the adhesion and locomotion system. Finally, a fifth prototype that carries the NDT equipment is presented. The final version of the WCR is equipped with robust and flexible adhesion that enables the robot to adhere to different types of surfaces. We have also addressed the challenges of integrating NDT equipment into the robot. To successfully conduct an inspection, besides the WCR, a safety system, control, and power systems are needed, which are further presented and discussed.