LINE BYPASS SYSTEM
A line bypass system includes a support structure including a first support portion and a second support portion spaced apart from the first support portion. The support structure includes an attachment portion that attaches the first support portion to the second support portion. The first support portion and the second support portion define a first opening on a first side of the attachment portion and a second opening on a second side of the attachment portion. The first opening movably receives a first guide wire and the second opening movably receives a second guide wire.
This application is a continuation of and claims priority to U.S. Non-Provisional patent application Ser. No. 16/807,096, filed on Mar. 2, 2020, which claimed priority to U.S. Non-Provisional patent application Ser. No. 15/424,773, filed on Feb. 3, 2017, which claimed priority to U.S. Non-Provisional patent application Ser. No. 14/217,341 filed on Mar. 17, 2014, which claimed priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 61/801,413, filed on Mar. 15, 2013, all entitled “LINE BYPASS SYSTEM,” all of which are hereby incorporated by reference herein.
TECHNICAL FIELDThe instant application is generally directed towards a line bypass system. For example, the instant application is directed towards a support structure for a line bypass system that allows for a robot to bypass the support structure.
BACKGROUNDRobots can be supported on overhead electric transmission lines, with the robots moving along the lines during inspection. Robots can be used for inspecting transmission line components, right of way conditions, etc.
SUMMARYThis summary is provided to introduce a selection of concepts in a simplified form that are further described below in the detailed description. This summary is not intended to identify key factors or essential features of the claimed subject matter, nor is it intended to be used to limit the scope of the claimed subject matter.
In an example, a line bypass system comprises a support structure comprising a first support portion and a second support portion spaced apart from the first support portion. An attachment portion is configured to attach the first support portion to the second support portion. The first support portion and the second support portion define a first opening on a first side of the attachment portion and a second opening on a second side of the attachment portion. The first opening is configured to movably receive a first guide wire and the second opening is configured to movably receive a second guide wire.
In an example, a line bypass system comprises a support structure comprising a first support portion and a second support portion spaced apart from the first support portion. An attachment portion is configured to attach the first support portion to the second support portion. The first support portion and the second support portion define a first opening on a first side of the attachment portion and a second opening on a second side of the attachment portion. The first opening is configured to movably receive a first guide wire and the second opening is configured to movably receive a second guide wire. A first connecting structure extends between the first support portion and the second support portion. The first connecting structure is spaced apart from the attachment portion to define the first opening.
In an example, a line bypass system comprises a support structure comprising a first support portion and a second support portion spaced apart from the first support portion. An attachment portion is configured to attach the first support portion to the second support portion. The first support portion and the second support portion define a first opening on a first side of the attachment portion and a second opening on a second side of the attachment portion. The first opening is configured to movably receive a first guide wire and the second opening is configured to movably receive a second guide wire. A first guide device is attached to at least one of the first support portion or the second support portion. The first guide device defines a first channel into which a first wire portion of the first guide wire is received.
The following description and annexed drawings set forth certain illustrative aspects and implementations. These are indicative of but a few of the various ways in which one or more aspects can be employed. Other aspects, advantages, and novel features of the disclosure will become apparent from the following detailed description when considered in conjunction with the annexed drawings.
The claimed subject matter is now described with reference to the drawings, wherein like reference numerals are generally used to refer to like elements throughout. In the following description, for purposes of explanation, numerous specific details are set forth in order to provide an understanding of the claimed subject matter. It is evident, however, that the claimed subject matter can be practiced without these specific details. In other instances, structures and devices are illustrated in block diagram form in order to facilitate describing the claimed subject matter.
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It will be appreciated that the term “bypass” used here (e.g., with respect to the line bypass system 100, for example) is a broad term that is not limited to directing the robot 102 from one line to another line (e.g., from a shield wire to a bridge, for example). Indeed, the term “bypass” may include diverting/directing the robot 102 from a first line (e.g., shield wire) to a second line (e.g., bridge) and/or from the second line (e.g., bridge) back to the first line (e.g., shield wire), such as in the examples illustrated in
The shield wire 104 is illustrated generically/schematically and may include any number of constructions. In general, the shield wire 104 may comprise an electrically conductive or non-conductive wire, cable, line, rope, fiber, fiber optic, etc. The shield wire 104 may include any number of materials including metal materials (e.g., conductors), non-metal materials (plastics, composite materials, etc.), or the like, that may or may not be implemented to provide utility services and/or products. The shield wire 104 can support the robot 102 such that the robot 102 can move/traverse 103 along the shield wire 104. In some examples, the shield wire 104 can provide a pathway onto and off of the system as well.
The line bypass system 100 may include a support structure 110. The support structure 110 is illustrated generically/schematically in
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The support structure 110 comprises an attachment structure 202. The attachment structure 202 may be located at an upper side of the support structure 110. The attachment structure 202 may include an attachment opening 204 through which an attachment device can be inserted. In an example, the attachment structure 202 can attach to a suspension device 206 such that the support structure 110 is supported below the suspension device 206. In a possible example, a portion of the suspension device 206 may be inserted through the attachment opening 204 such that the suspension device 206 can hold/attach/support the attachment structure 202.
It will be appreciated that the suspension device 206 is illustrated generically/schematically for illustrative purposes. Indeed, the suspension device 206 is intended to illustrate a possible position of the suspension device 206 with respect to the support structure 110. In other examples, however, the suspension device 206 comprises any number of configurations, sizes, structures, constructions, etc. In general, the suspension device 206 can be directly or indirectly attached to a utility structure, such that the support structure 110 may be suspended and held by the suspension device 206. It will be appreciated that the suspension device 206 may or may not be included as part of the system (e.g., line bypass system 100). Indeed, in some examples, the suspension device 206 may include an arm, fitting, or the like to suspend the support structure 110.
The support structure 110 defines a first channel 210 disposed on a first lateral side 212 of the support structure 110 and a second channel 220 disposed on a second lateral side 222 of the support structure 110. In some examples, the second channel 220 extends parallel to the first channel 210. In such an example, the first channel 210 and the second channel 220 can extend in a direction that is generally perpendicular with respect to a direction along which the suspension device 206 extends. The first channel 210 and the second channel 220 can extend substantially along an entire length of the support structure 110, with the first channel 210 and the second channel 220 each defining a groove, furrow, opening, indentation, or the like into the support structure 110. In at least one example, the first channel 210 and the second channel 220 each have an outer side that is substantially open (e.g., not bordered) while an inner side is bordered by the support structure 110.
The support structure 110 defines a third channel 226 into which the shield wire 104 is received. The third channel 226 may be sized/shaped to receive the shield wire 104. For example, the third channel 226 may have a cross-sectional size that is slightly larger than a cross-sectional size of the shield wire 104 such that the shield wire 104 can be received and extend through the third channel 226. In the illustrated example, the third channel 226 extends substantially parallel to the first channel 210 and the second channel 220. The third channel 226 may be disposed/positioned between the first channel 210 and the second channel 220. In contrast to the first channel 210 and the second channel 220, the third channel 226 may define a substantially continuous circumferential boundary around the shield wire 104, such that the shield wire 104 is generally limited from being inadvertently removed from the third channel 226.
The shield wire 104 can be inserted into the support structure 110 in any number of ways. In one possible example, the support structure 110 comprises a plurality of portions (e.g., a first portion 228 and a second portion 230), with the first portion 228 and the second portion 230 being selectively attachable to each other, such as with mechanical fasteners or the like. In such an example, the first portion 228 and the second portion 230 can be detached from each other to allow for the shield wire 104 to be positioned within the third channel 226. Upon the shield wire's 104 insertion, the first portion 228 and the second portion 230 may be reattached to each other, such that the shield wire 104 is limited from being inadvertently removed from the third channel 226.
A guide wire 240 may be provided for attaching to the shield wire 104. In an example, the guide wire 240 defines a guide wire opening 242 into which the shield wire 104 is received. The guide wire opening 242 extends axially along the guide wire 240 and is sized to receive the shield wire 104. While the guide wire 240 comprises any number of constructions, in this example, the guide wire 240 has a braided design comprising a plurality of uniformly wrapped strands. It will be appreciated that the braided design (e.g., uniformly wrapped strands) of the guide wire 240 comprises one or more individual strands shaped in a similar or identical pattern that may, in some examples, resemble a stretched spring or helix. This allows for the guide wire 240 to secure/attach to the shield wire 104 and provide proper stiffness to support the compression at the robot interface. As such, in some examples, the guide wire 240 may include a plurality of wire portions, such as a first wire portion 244 and a second wire portion 246. The first wire portion 244 and the second wire portion 246, together comprising the guide wire 240, can be braided/attached to define the guide wire opening 242 into which the shield wire 104 is received.
The first wire portion 244 and the second wire portion 246 can be unwrapped/detached, as illustrated in
In this example, the first wire portion 244 and the second wire portion 246 are unwrapped and spaced apart on the first lateral side 212 and the second lateral side 222 of the support structure 110. Extending farther away from the support structure 110, the first wire portion 244 and the second wire portion 246 can be braided/attached to define the guide wire opening 242. Similarly, extending farther away from the support structure 110 on an opposite side of the support structure 110, the first wire portion 244 and the second wire portion 246 can be braided/attached to define the guide wire opening 242. As will be described with respect to
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The second support structure 300 can comprise any number of materials, including metals, plastics, composite materials, or the like. The second support structure 300 can have at least some degree of rigidity/stiffness so as to support and/or receive the shield wire 104, the robot 102, etc. In this example, the second support structure 300 comprises a pair of second support structures 300a, 300b positioned end to end with an interlocking portion 302 attaching the second support structures 300a, 300b. In other examples, any number of second support structures 300 may be provided. The second support structures 300a, 300b illustrated in
The second support structure 300 can define a first channel 310 disposed on a first lateral side 312 of the second support structure 300 and a second channel 320 disposed on a second lateral side 322 of the second support structure 300. In some examples, the second channel 320 extends parallel to the first channel 310. The first channel 310 and the second channel 320 can extend substantially along the entire length of the second support structure 300, with the first channel 310 and the second channel 320 each defining a groove, furrow, opening, indentation, or the like into the second support structure 300. In at least one example, the first channel 310 and the second channel 320 each have an outer side that is substantially open (e.g., not bordered) while an inner side is bordered by the second support structure 300.
The first wire portion 244 and the second wire portion 246 can be unwrapped/detached in a similar manner as described/illustrated with respect to
The second support structure 300 defines a third channel 326 into which the shield wire 104 is received. The third channel 326 may be sized/shaped to receive the shield wire 104. For example, the third channel 326 may have a cross-sectional size that is slightly larger than a cross-sectional size of the shield wire 104 such that the shield wire 104 can be received and extend through the third channel 326. In the illustrated example, the third channel 326 extends substantially parallel to the first channel 310 and the second channel 320. The third channel 326 may be disposed/positioned between the first channel 310 and the second channel 320. In some examples, the third channel 326 may define a substantially continuous circumferential boundary around the shield wire 104, such that the shield wire 104 is generally limited from being inadvertently removed from the third channel 326. In other examples, the third channel 326 may include an opening along a side (e.g., bottom side) of the third channel 326 such that the shield wire 104 can be inserted/removed from the third channel 326.
The second support structure 300 defines a damper opening 340 through which the shield wire 104 extends. The damper opening 340 comprises a gap, space cavity, or the like that extends through the second support structure 300 between a top surface and a bottom surface. In the illustrated example, the damper opening 340 is located between the first channel 310 and the second channel 320. In an example, the damper opening 340 is connected to the third channel 326 such that the shield wire 104 can extend within the damper opening 340.
A damper holder 342 can be provided to extend at least partially within the damper opening 340. In an example, the damper holder 342 can wrap around the shield wire 104, such that the shield wire 104 supports the damper holder 342. In the illustrated example, the damper holder 342 can extend downwardly from the damper opening 340, such that the damper holder 342 is suspended from/below the shield wire 104. In other examples, however, the damper holder 342 is not so limited, and may instead extend upwardly from the shield wire 104 so as to extend above the second support structure 300.
The damper holder 342 can be attached to and/or support one or more damper devices 344. The damper device 344 comprises any number of structures that can dampen/attenuate vibrations of the shield wire 104. For example, the damper device 344 may comprise one or more weights that can assist in dampening/attenuating vibrations. The damper device(s) 344 illustrated in
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The third support structure 400 comprises a body 401. The body 401 can comprise any number of materials, including metals, plastics, composite materials, or the like. The body 401 can have at least some degree of rigidity/stiffness so as to support and/or receive the shield wire 104, the robot 102, etc. The body 401 may include the attachment structure 202. The attachment structure 202 may be generally identical to the attachment structure 202 described above with respect to
The body 401 can define a third channel 402 into which the shield wire 104 is received. The third channel 402 may be sized/shaped to receive the shield wire 104. For example, the third channel 402 may have a cross-sectional size that is slightly larger than a cross-sectional size of the shield wire 104 such that the shield wire 104 can be received and extend through the third channel 402. In some examples, the third channel 402 may define a substantially continuous circumferential boundary around the shield wire 104, such that the shield wire 104 is generally limited from being inadvertently removed from the third channel 402.
The body 401 comprises a first support edge 404 and a second support edge 406 (illustrated in
The third support structure 400 can include a first support portion 420. The first support portion 420 is positioned on a first side 422 of the body 401. The first support portion 420 extends coaxially with respect to the third channel 402 of the body 401. The first support portion 420 comprises any number of materials, including metal materials (e.g., conductors), non-metal materials (plastics, composite materials, etc.), or the like.
The first support portion 420 defines a first channel 424 into which the shield wire 104 is received. The first channel 424 extends coaxially with respect to the third channel 402 of the body 401. In this example, the first channel 424 extends entirely through the first support portion 420 from one end to an opposing end, such that the shield wire 104 can extend completely through the first channel 424. While the first channel 424 comprises any number of sizes/shapes, in some examples, the first channel 424 generally matches a size/shape of the shield wire 104.
The third support structure 400 can include a second support portion 430. The second support portion 430 is positioned on a second side 432 of the body 401. The second support portion 430 extends coaxially with respect to the third channel 402 of the body 401 and with the first support portion 420. The second support portion 430 comprises any number of materials, including metal materials (e.g., conductors), non-metal materials (plastics, composite materials, etc.), or the like.
The second support portion 430 defines a second channel 434 (illustrated with dashed lines since the second channel 434 is obscured from view in
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In this example, a pair of shield wires 104 may be provided, with the shield wires 104 attached to a utility structure 502. To allow for the robot 102 to traverse the shield wires 104 (e.g., to move from one shield wire 104 to another shield wire 104), a bridge 504 may be provided. The bridge 504 can extend between the shield wires 104, and allows for the robot 102 to traverse the bridge 504 while bypassing the utility structure 502. As such, the robot 102 can move from one shield wire 104, across the bridge 504, and to the other shield wire 104. The bridge 504 is illustrated generically/schematically as the bridge 504 includes any number of sizes (e.g., lengths), constructions, etc. Moreover, the bridge 504 is not limited to being provided for the robot 102 to bypass the utility structure 502. Indeed, any number of structures, or line devices attached directly to the line, some of which may not include the utility structure 502, may exist, thus necessitating the use of the bridge 504. The bridge 504 can be a flexible or rigid member.
The second line bypass system 500 can include a fourth support structure 510. The fourth support structure 510 is illustrated generically/schematically in
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The fourth support structure 510 comprises an attachment structure 600. The attachment structure 600 may be located at an upper side of the fourth support structure 510. The attachment structure 600 may include an attachment opening 602 through which an attachment device can be inserted. In an example, the attachment structure 600 can attach to the suspension device 550 (e.g., illustrated in
The fourth support structure 510 can include a first support portion 604 and a second support portion 606 that is spaced apart from the first support portion 604. In an example, an attachment portion 608 can attach the first support portion 604 to the second support portion 606. The first support portion 604 comprises a substantially flat/planar body on which the attachment structure 600 is supported. The first support portion 604 is elongated and includes opposing rounded ends. In other examples, the first support portion 604 is not limited to the illustrated size/shape, and, instead, may include quadrilateral shapes, ovoid shapes, or the like.
The second support portion 606 can have a generally similar or identical size/shape as the first support portion 604. For example, the second support portion 606 comprises a substantially flat/planar body. The second support portion 606 is elongated and includes opposing rounded ends.
The attachment portion 608 can extend between the first support portion 604 and the second support portion 606. In this example, the attachment portion 608 is positioned on an opposite side of the first support portion 604 from the attachment structure 600. The attachment portion 608 can maintain the first support portion 604 spaced apart from the second support portion 606 such that the first support portion 604 and the second support portion 606 are generally immovable/fixed with respect to each other.
The fourth support structure 510 comprises a first connecting structure 620. The first connecting structure 620 can extend between the first support portion 604 and the second support portion 606. The first connecting structure 620 comprises any number of fasteners, including screws, bolts, nails, pins, or the like. In an example, the first connecting structure 620 is spaced apart from the attachment portion 608 to define a first opening 622. The first opening 622 can extend between the first support portion 604 on an upper side and the second support portion 606 on a lower side. The first opening 622 may also be bounded by the attachment portion 608 on one side and the first connecting structure 620 on an opposing side. In the illustrated example, the first opening 622 is defined on a first side 624 of the attachment portion 608.
The fourth support structure 510 comprises a second connecting structure 630. The second connecting structure 630 can extend between the first support portion 604 and the second support portion 606. The second connecting structure 630 comprises any number of fasteners, including screws, bolts, nails, pins, or the like. In an example, the second connecting structure 630 is spaced apart from the attachment portion 608 to define a second opening 632. The second opening 632 can extend between the first support portion 604 on an upper side and the second support portion 606 on a lower side. The second opening 632 may also be bounded by the attachment portion 608 on one side and the second connecting structure 630 on an opposing side. In the illustrated example, the second opening 632 is defined on a second side 634 of the attachment portion 608.
The fourth support structure 510 can include a first guide device 640. In an example, the first guide device 640 extends between a first end 642 and a second end 644. The first end 642 of the first guide device 640 can be attached to the first connecting structure 620. The first guide device 640 can be attached in any number of ways to the first connecting structure 620. In one possible example, the first connecting structure 620 can extend through the first guide device 640 (e.g., such as through an opening, or the like), such that the first guide device 640 is movably attached with respect to the first connecting structure 620.
In the illustrated example, the first guide device 640 defines a first channel 646 disposed on a first lateral side 648 of the first guide device 640. In some examples, the first channel 646 receives a first wire portion 650a of the guide wire 540 (illustrated in
The fourth support structure 510 can include a second guide device 670. The second guide device 670 may be generally identical to the first guide device 640. In an example, the second guide device 670 extends between a first end 672 and a second end 674. The first end 672 of the second guide device 670 can be attached to the second connecting structure 630. The second guide device 670 can be attached in any number of ways to the second connecting structure 630. In one possible example, the second connecting structure 630 can extend through the second guide device 670 (e.g., such as through an opening, or the like), such that the second guide device 670 is movably attached with respect to the second connecting structure 630. The first guide device 640 and the second guide device 670 can support the guide wire (e.g., guide wire loop, for example) to avoid fatigue issues under dynamic tension.
In the illustrated example, the second guide device 670 defines a first channel 676 disposed on a first lateral side 678 of the second guide device 670. In some examples, the first channel 676 receives a first wire portion 680a of the second guide wire 542. The second guide device 670 defines a second channel 684 extending parallel to the first channel 676. In the illustrated example, the second channel 684 is disposed on a second lateral side 686 of the second guide device 670. In some examples, the second channel 684 receives a second wire portion 680b of the second guide wire 542. In the illustrated example of
In operation, the first opening 622 can movably receive at least a portion of the guide wire 540, such as ends of the first wire portion 650a and the second wire portion 650b. As such, the guide wire 540, by being supported by the guide device 640, is movable due to the movable attachment between the guide device 640 and the first connecting structure 620. Likewise, the second opening 634 can movably receive at least a portion of the second guide wire 542, such as ends of the first wire portion 680a and the second wire portion 680b. As such, the second guide wire 542, by being supported by the second guide device 670, is movable due to the movable attachment between the second guide device 670 and the second connecting structure 630.
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The fifth support structure 700 includes at least some structures that are identical to structures of the fourth support structure 510. For example, the fifth support structure 700 may include the first support portion 604, the second support portion 606, the attachment portion 608, the first connecting structure 620, and the second connecting structure 630. Additionally, the fifth support structure 700 may include the guide wire 540 (comprising the first wire portion 650a and the second wire portion 650b) or the second guide wire 542 (comprising the first wire portion 680a and the second wire portion 680b) received within the first opening 622 and the second guide wire 542 (comprising the first wire portion 680a and the second wire portion 680b) received within the first opening 622. The fifth support structure 700 may also include the first guide device 640 and the second guide device 670.
In the illustrated example of
The attachment structure 702 of the fifth support structure 700 defines a third channel 704 into which the shield wire 104 is received. In this example, the third channel 704 comprises an opening, space, gap, or the like that is sized/shaped to receive the shield wire 104. The third channel 704 and, thus, the shield wire 104, may extend in a direction that is non-parallel to a direction along which the fifth support structure 700 extends. As such, in this example, the shield wire 104 is not in-line with the fifth support structure 700 (in contrast to the example of
In some examples, the attachment structure 702 comprises a fastener 710 that allows for the third channel 704 to be selectively opened/closed. For example, the fastener 710 is configured to be loosened, for example, to allow for access to the third channel 704, such that the shield wire 104 may be inserted or removed from the third channel 704. The attachment structure 702 has at least some degree or rigidity/stiffness, such that the attachment structure 702 can hang from the shield wire 104 and support the robot 102.
In operation, the fifth support structure 700 allows for the robot 102 to be diverted to the bridge 504 from the shield wire 104. For example, the robot 102 can traverse/move along the shield wire 104 and the guide wire 240 in a right to left direction in
Similarly, in operation, the fifth support structure 700 allows for the robot 102 to be diverted from the bridge 504 to the shield wire 104. For example, the robot 102 can traverse/move along the bridge 504 in a left to right direction in
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The robot 102 can include a base 800. While the base 800 is illustrated as having a generally rectangular shape, other shapes are envisioned. Moreover, the base can be larger or smaller than as illustrated, and, in some examples, may have grooves, openings, channels, or the like extending therein (e.g., to accommodate for the damper device 344).
The robot 102 can include a first gripping structure 810. The first griping structure 810 may be supported by the base 800, with the first gripping structure 810 selectively movable with respect to the base 800. The first gripping structure 810 comprises any number of structures. In an example, the first gripping structure 810 may include one or more wheels, rollers, or the like. It will be appreciated that the first gripping structure 810 of
The first gripping structure 810 can define a first channel 812. The first channel 812 defines an opening, space, recess, gap, passage, or the like in the first gripping structure 810. The first channel 812 comprises any number of sizes/shapes, and in other examples, may be larger or smaller in size than as illustrated. In general, the first channel 812 can receive and/or hold one or more items/structures therein.
The robot 102 can include a second gripping structure 820. The second gripping structure 820 may be supported by the base 800, with the second gripping structure 820 selectively movable with respect to the base 800. In the illustrated example, the second gripping structure 820 is generally identical to the first gripping structure 810. The second gripping structure 820 comprises any number of structures. In an example, the second gripping structure 820 may include one or more wheels, rollers, or the like. It will be appreciated that the second gripping structure 820 of
The second gripping structure 820 can define a second channel 822. The second channel 822 defines an opening, space, recess, gap, passage, or the like in the second gripping structure 820. The second channel 822 comprises any number of sizes/shapes, and in other examples, may be larger or smaller in size than as illustrated. In general, the second channel 822 can receive and/or hold one or more items/structures therein.
While two gripping structures (e.g., the first gripping structure 810 and the second gripping structure 820) are illustrated in
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The robot 102 can move (e.g., into and/or out of the page) while traversing the shield wire 104. As the robot 102 encounters the guide wire 240 (as illustrated in
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As the robot 102 moves along the guide wire 240 between the positions illustrated in
In this and the following examples, the robot 102, in particular the first gripping structure 810 and the second gripping structure 820, has at least some degree of gripping force to maintain the robot 102 in association with the shield wire 104, the guide wire 240, etc. For example, the first gripping structure 810 and the second gripping structure 820 have a gripping force directed along the movement direction 830 such that the first gripping structure 810 and the second gripping structure 820 can sandwich and hold any structures therewithin. In an example, the first gripping structure 810 is biased towards the second gripping structure 820 while the second gripping structure 820 is biased towards the first gripping structure 810. As such, the robot 102 is generally limited from inadvertently falling off and/or becoming dislodged from the shield wire 104, the guide wire 240, etc.
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In this example, the first channel 210, 310 may be dimensioned to further facilitate disengagement of the robot 102 from the shield wire 104. For example, the robot 102 may move along the shield wire 104 (e.g., before
Likewise, in this example, the second channel 220, 320 may be dimensioned to further facilitate disengagement of the robot 102 from the shield wire 104. For example, due to the second wire portion 246 being positioned in the second channel 220, 320, the second channel 822 of the second gripping structure 820 can receive the second wire portion 246 and, in some examples, a portion of the support structure 101 or the second support structure 300. As such, the second channel 220 of the support structure 110 and the second channel 320 of the second support structure 300 are dimensioned to facilitate engagement of the robot 102 with the second wire portion 246.
In this example, the robot 102 can engage (e.g., grip, hold, etc.) the first wire portion 244 and, in some examples, a portion of the support structure 101 or the second support structure 300. Likewise, the robot 102 can engage (e.g., grip, hold, etc.) the second wire portion 246 and, in some examples, a portion of the support structure 101 or the second support structure 300. As such, the robot 102 can traverse the support structure 110 and/or the second support structure 300.
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In this example, the first wire portion 650a, 680a is positioned in the first channel 646, 676 of the first guide device 640 or the second guide device 670. The second wire portion 650b, 680b may be positioned in the second channel 654, 684 of the first guide device 640 or the second guide device 670. As with the previous examples, the first channel 646, 676 is dimensioned to facilitate engagement of the robot 102 with the first wire portion 650a, 680a. For example, the first gripping structure 810 can receive the first wire portion 650a, 680a within the first channel 812. The robot 102 can traverse the first wire portion 650a, 680a by moving along the guide wire 540, 542 (e.g., into and out of the page).
Likewise, in some examples, the second channel 654, 684 is dimensioned to facilitate engagement of the robot 102 with the second wire portion 650b, 680b. For example, the second gripping structure 820 can receive the second wire portion 650b, 680b within the second channel 822. The robot 102 can traverse the second wire portion 650b, 680b by moving along the guide wire 540, 542 (e.g., into and out of the page). The robot 102 can then traverse the fourth support structure 510 by receiving portions of the fourth support structure 510 within the first channel 812 and the second channel 822, such that the robot 102 engages (e.g., grips, holds, receives) edges of the fourth support structure 510.
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As the robot 102 traverses the first support portion 420 and moves towards the body 401 of the third support structure 400, the robot 102 can disengage from the first support portion 420. In this example, the first support portion 420 may be dimensioned to match a cross-sectional shape of the body 401 of the third support structure 400. As such, the robot 102 can engage the body 401 of the third support structure 400, such as by receiving the first support edge 404 within the first channel 812 and the second support edge 406 within the second channel 822.
The second support portion 430 is dimensioned to facilitate disengagement of the robot 102 from the first support edge 404 and the second support edge 406 of the body 401 and engagement of the robot 102 with the second support portion 430. In this example, the second support portion 430 may be dimensioned to match the cross-sectional shape of the body 401 of the third support structure 400. As such, the robot 102 can disengage from the first support edge 404 within the first channel 812 and the second support edge 406 within the second channel 822. The robot 102 can then engage the second support portion 430, such as by receiving edge portions of the second support portion 430 within the first channel 812 and the second channel 822.
Although the subject matter has been described in language specific to structural features or methodological acts, it is to be understood that the subject matter defined in the appended claims is not necessarily limited to the specific features or acts described above. Rather, the specific features and acts described above are disclosed as example forms of implementing at least some of the claims.
Many modifications may be made to the instant disclosure without departing from the scope or spirit of the claimed subject matter. Unless specified otherwise, “first,” “second,” or the like are not intended to imply a temporal aspect, a spatial aspect, an ordering, etc. Rather, such terms are merely used as identifiers, names, etc. for features, elements, items, etc. For example, a first cover portion and a second cover portion generally correspond to cover portion A and cover portion B or two different or two identical cover portions or the same cover portion.
Moreover, “exemplary” is used herein to mean serving as an example, instance, illustration, etc., and not necessarily as advantageous. As used in this application, “or” is intended to mean an inclusive “or” rather than an exclusive “or.” In addition, “a” and “an” as used in this application are generally to be construed to mean “one or more” unless specified otherwise or clear from context to be directed to a singular form. Also, at least one of A and B or the like generally means A or B or both A and B. Furthermore, to the extent that “includes,” “having,” “has,” “with,” or variants thereof are used in either the detailed description or the claims, such terms are intended to be inclusive in a manner similar to “comprising.”
Also, although the disclosure has been illustrated and described with respect to one or more implementations, equivalent alterations and modifications will occur to others skilled in the art based upon a reading and understanding of this specification and the annexed drawings. The disclosure includes all such modifications and alterations and is limited only by the scope of the following claims.
Claims
1. A line bypass system comprising:
- a guide wire; and
- a support structure defining: a first channel into which a first wire portion of the guide wire is received, and a second channel into which a second wire portion of the guide wire is received, wherein: the first channel is dimensioned to facilitate engagement of a robot with the first wire portion, and the second channel is dimensioned to facilitate engagement of the robot with the second wire portion as the robot traverses the support structure.
2. The line bypass system of claim 1, wherein the support structure defines a third channel into which a shield wire is received, the third channel extending substantially parallel to the first channel and the second channel.
3. The line bypass system of claim 2, wherein a portion of the support structure defining the third channel is configured as a substantially continuous circumferential boundary around the shield wire so as to inhibit removal of the shield wire from the third channel.
4. The line bypass system of claim 1, wherein the support structure defines a damper opening through which a shield wire extends such that the shield wire, within the damper opening, is configured to support a damper device.
5. The line bypass system of claim 1, wherein the guide wire defines a guide wire opening into which a shield wire is received, the guide wire dimensioned to facilitate disengagement of the robot from the shield wire and engagement of the robot with the guide wire.
6. The line bypass system of claim 1, wherein the first channel is disposed on a first lateral side of the support structure and the second channel is disposed on a second lateral side of the support structure.
7. The line bypass system of claim 6, wherein the first lateral side of the support structure is opposite the second lateral side of the support structure.
8. The line bypass system of claim 1, the support structure comprising:
- a first support portion;
- a second support portion spaced apart from the first support portion; and
- an attachment portion configured to attach the first support portion to the second support portion, the first support portion and the second support portion defining a first opening on a first side of the attachment portion and a second opening on a second side of the attachment portion, the first opening configured to movably receive the guide wire and the second opening configured to movably receive a second guide wire.
9. The line bypass system of claim 8, wherein the support structure comprises a first connecting structure extending between the first support portion and the second support portion, the first connecting structure spaced apart from the attachment portion to define the first opening.
10. The line bypass system of claim 9, wherein the support structure comprises a second connecting structure extending between the first support portion and the second support portion, the second connecting structure spaced apart from the attachment portion to define the second opening.
11. A line bypass system comprising:
- a support structure comprising: a body defining a third channel into which a shield wire is received, the body comprising a first support edge and a second support edge extending parallel to the first support edge; a first support portion positioned on a first side of the body and extending coaxially with respect to the third channel of the body, the first support portion dimensioned to facilitate disengagement of a robot from the first support portion and engagement of the robot with the first support edge and the second support edge of the body; and a second support portion positioned on a second side of the body and extending coaxially with respect to the third channel of the body, the second support portion dimensioned to facilitate disengagement of the robot from the first support edge and the second support edge of the body and engagement of the robot with the second support portion.
12. The line bypass system of claim 11, wherein the first support portion defines a first channel into which the shield wire is received, the first channel extending coaxially with respect to the third channel of the body.
13. The line bypass system of claim 12, wherein the first channel extends entirely through the first support portion from one end to an opposing end, such that the shield wire can extend completely through the first support portion.
14. The line bypass system of claim 12, wherein the first channel is defined to match a size of the shield wire.
15. The line bypass system of claim 11, wherein the second support portion defines a second channel into which the shield wire is received, the second channel extending coaxially with respect to the third channel of the body.
16. The line bypass system of claim 15, wherein the second channel extends entirely through the second support portion from one end to an opposing end, such that the shield wire can extend completely through the second support portion.
17. The line bypass system of claim 15, wherein the second channel is defined to match a size of the shield wire.
18. A line bypass system comprising:
- a guide wire; and
- a support structure defining: a first channel into which a first wire portion of the guide wire is received, and a second channel into which a second wire portion of the guide wire is received, wherein: the first wire portion is at least one of unwrapped or detached from the guide wire to be received within the first channel, the second wire portion is at least one of unwrapped or detached from the guide wire to be received within the second channel, and the first wire portion is spaced a distance from the second wire portion with the shield wire extending between the first wire portion and the second wire portion.
19. The line bypass system of claim 18, wherein the support structure defines a third channel into which a shield wire is received, the third channel extending substantially parallel to the first channel and the second channel.
20. The line bypass system of claim 19, wherein a portion of the support structure defining the third channel is configured as a substantially continuous circumferential boundary around the shield wire so as to inhibit removal of the shield wire from the third channel.
Type: Application
Filed: Jun 27, 2023
Publication Date: Oct 26, 2023
Inventors: Adam DEEL (Bay Village, OH), Randy Gene CLOUD (Mayfield Village, OH)
Application Number: 18/342,703