Manipulator for remote inspection of difficult to access areas - using a remote inspection system mounted on the free end of a self-supporting wind out chain

摘要

A manipulator for inspection of difficult to access areas especially within the tube bend (6) region of upright steam generators (2). The manipulator comprises an inspection system (8) supported on the free end of a chain (8). The links (10) of the chain are designed so that their two-way angle of rotation is such that the links align approximately linearly (12). A means, comprising a chain guide (30) is provided to align the self-supporting part (10a) of the chain. USE/ADVANTAGE - The manipulator is intended for inspection of difficult to access areas which must nevertheless be regularly inspected. Typical is the visual inspection, using remote video techniques, of the tube bend region and its associated tube clamps (4) in an upright steam generator. The manipulator is easy to use and causes little mounting difficulty.