Abstract: The invention is directed to remotely-controlled manipulator carrier systems for use in maintaining and servicing process equipment housed in large-area cells affected by radioactivity wherein industrial processes are conducted. The cells are part of a nuclear facility for reprocessing irradiated nuclear fuel materials. The process equipment is arranged along mutually adjacent walls of the cell and so defines a canyon-like passageway extending in the direction of the longitudinal axis of the cell. The system includes a first overhead bridge crane having a trolley movable thereon in a direction transverse to said longitudinal axis. The trolley includes a hoist for lowering and raising a hook for engaging and moving a component of the process equipment in a first vertical plane transverse to said axis. A second overhead bridge crane is disposed beneath the first bridge crane.

Abstract: The invention is directed to a manipulating device for remotely-controlled anipulation of tools such as an impact wrench or the like. The device includes a support structure for the tool and suspension means for engaging a load hook of a crane pulley or a power manipulator. The support structure includes two side pieces arranged parallel with one another and fixed laterally to the tool. The side pieces contain longitudinally extending slots which connect the end locations which correspond to the horizontal and vertical working positions of the composite assembly made up of the tool and support. The suspension means includes a carrying yoke which can be displaced relative to the support structure. The yoke is guided at its lower end in the longitudinally extending slots. The manipulating device can be moved between its horizontal and vertical working positions without the need for any additional mechanical holding or moving components.