Purpose#R##N##R##N##R##N##R##N##R##N#This paper aims to focus on the design and testing of a robotic device for power line inspection and cleaning. The focus for this design is on simplicity and compactness with a goal to create a device for linemen and other power line workers to keep in their toolbox.#R##N##R##N##R##N##R##N##R##N#Design/methodology/approach#R##N##R##N##R##N##R##N##R##N#The prototype uses V-grooved wheels to grip the line and can pass obstacles such as splices. It is equipped with a video camera to aid in line inspection and a scrub brush to clean debris from the line. The operator controls the device remotely from a laptop through a wireless connection. The novel way in which this device moves down the power line allows compactness while still being able to overcome in-line obstacles up to a certain size.#R##N##R##N##R##N##R##N##R##N#Findings#R##N##R##N##R##N##R##N##R##N#The device has been tested on a test bed in the lab. The device is able to move down a line and expand to overcome in-line obstacles as it travels. Testing proved the mechanical feasibility and revealed new requirements for a future prototype.#R##N##R##N##R##N##R##N##R##N#Practical implications#R##N##R##N##R##N##R##N##R##N#The device can be used for power line asset management by power companies; line inspection can lead to preventative repairs, leading to less downtime.#R##N##R##N##R##N##R##N##R##N#Social implications#R##N##R##N##R##N##R##N##R##N#It stands to reduce costs related to maintenance and mitigates down time and emergency repairs.#R##N##R##N##R##N##R##N##R##N#Originality/value#R##N##R##N##R##N##R##N##R##N#Innovative features include its size, mobility and control methods. Overall, the impact of this work extends to the utility maintenance sector and beyond.
['Rebecca Miller', 'Farshid Abbasi', 'Javad Mohammadpour']
Power Line Robotic Device for Overhead Line Inspection and Maintenance