Design And Analysis of a Pipe Inspection Caterpillar Robot Using Different Materials

Abstract

The development of a pipe inspection robot employing caterpillar locomotion and constructed with PLA and ABS materials entails a comprehensive process. Beginning with the delineation of specific requirements, such as size and inspection capabilities, the conceptual design is conceived, outlining the robot's features. The subsequent phase involves meticulous 3D modelling using software like SolidWorks, followed by ANSYS analysis to simulate and optimize the robot's structural integrity, stress distribution, and overall performance. PLA and ABS are chosen as 3D printing materials, with PLA offering ease of printing and biodegradability, while ABS contributes durability and temperature resistance. The prototype is then constructed, incorporating motors, sensors, and the caterpillar locomotion system. ANSYS analysis is employed to assess the robot's behaviour under varying conditions, ensuring robustness and reliability. The iterative process of testing and refining the design leads to the optimization of the robot's performance. The final steps involve thorough documentation, regulatory compliance checks, and potential scalability for diverse applications, culminating in the deployment of the caterpillar robot for effective pipe inspection tasks.
 This paper delves into the design and static structural analysis of a caterpillar robot model utilizing ANSYS, with a specific emphasis on assessing two distinct materials: Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene (ABS) and Polylactic acid (PLA). The study involves a comprehensive comparison of various parameters between the two materials, aiming to provide insights into their respective performance and suitability for the caterpillar robot's structural components.