This solution was developed in close cooperation with a customer. They process countless individual pipes off-shore into one long pipeline that is then sunk onto the seabed. Before the pipes can be welded together in the so-called prep area on a ship, the end caps must be removed. At an earlier stage, after applying the coating in a factory, these caps are attached to protect the coating against moisture and dust.
Advantages:
Quick removal
Safe removal
Autonomous system, no need for settings or adjustments by personnel
Simple to operate, no robotics expertise required!
How it Works
Together we quickly came up with a concept of a robotic arm with a sort of claw attached to it to grip the caps and remove them. According to good custom in our industry, this earned the robot a fitting nickname, the Predator. Using multiple sensors, the Predator searches for the pipe and detects whether or not there is a cap on it, after which the cap is removed and set aside.
The Full Scope:
Industrial robotic system
Secured work environment
