초록 ▼

A manipulator apparatus carried by a remotely operated vehicle is provided with a suction device capable of gripping underwater objects. The suction portion of the manipulator apparatus utilizes suction chambers isolated from the body of water. When fluid is removed from the suction chambers an appr

A manipulator apparatus carried by a remotely operated vehicle is provided with a suction device capable of gripping underwater objects. The suction portion of the manipulator apparatus utilizes suction chambers isolated from the body of water. When fluid is removed from the suction chambers an appropriately shaped moveable wall moves inwardly thereby forming a suction cavity between the suction device and the object to be moved. The moveable wall may take the form of a rubber-like flexible membrane wall or a piston moveable within the suction portion of the manipulator apparatus.

대표청구항 ▼

Manipulator apparatus adapted for use in manipulating submerged objects, said manipulator apparatus comprising: suction member means having at least one suction chamber containing fluid defined in the interior thereof, said suction member means having a moveable wall formed in a fluid-tight moveable

Manipulator apparatus adapted for use in manipulating submerged objects, said manipulator apparatus comprising: suction member means having at least one suction chamber containing fluid defined in the interior thereof, said suction member means having a moveable wall formed in a fluid-tight moveable manner between a portion of said at least one suction chamber and a surface of said suction member means placed in contact with said object to be manipulated, and suction means placed in fluid communication with and being capable of removing a portion of said fluid from said at least one suction chamber, said fluid when removed causing said moveable wall to move toward the interior of said suction member means and to form a suction cavity between said surface and said object capable of exerting a suction grip on said object.