Robot vehicle adapted to operate in pipelines and other narrow passages

摘要

The train (1) of modules (2 to 6) that forms the robot comprises springs (38) to connect the successive modules together enabling curvature of the train in the bends of a pipe. However, cables (41) bring the modules together by compressing the springs when they are pulled, until the conical end faces (39, 40) are engaged in each other; the train is made rigid and can be immobilised inside the pipe to perform different types of machining operations, including welding or cutting joints between successive pipes in the pipework.