In 2013, Japanese engineers developed a magnetic robot, called Bridge Inspection Robot Equipping Magnets (BIREM). The BIREM can inspect hard-to-reach places, such as bridges and power lines. The magnetic robot features
strong magnets on its legs that allow it to
climb up the sides of steel structures, moving as quickly as 7.8 inches per second!
According to Osaka-CU, the robot helps roadside engineers diminish the rate of deterioration in Japan's urban centers. With this solution, a remote-controlled device can reach places that human workers cannot. The robot's magnetic feet, shaped similarly to
cylinder magnets, allow the device to climb upside down and dangle without falling.
Magnetic Robots Today
Since then, many companies have developed similar magnetic robots so engineers can inspect hard-to-reach places. For instance,
The Magg, a miniature magnetic crawler,
inspects above ground storage tanks, pressure vessels, wind turbines, ship hulls, and virtually any other steel structures with confined space entry access. The Magg offer real-time video and still images so engineers can monitor inspection of new and aging infrastructure.
Additionally,
Guardian® S by SARCOS is a remote-controlled robot made with
permanent magnets used for inspection and surveillance. This robot is a cost-effective and portable robot that can
traverse challenging terrain and facilitate two-way, real-time video, voice and data communication, all from a safe distance. According to SARCOS, you can use this robot for public safety, HAZMAT, power sector, inspection, and dust extraction applications.
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