ADAPTABLE CHIMNEY-SEALANT INSTALLATION ASSISTIVE DEVICE

Abstract

An adaptable chimney-sealant installation assistive device comprising of a platform 1 developed to be positioned on a fixed surface of a roof, plurality of motorized wheels 2 are arranged underneath the platform 1 to move the platform 1 on the surface for positioning the platform 1 in proximity to a chimney, an artificial intelligence-based imaging unit 3 to determine gaps around the chimney, a chamber 4 for storing multiple metallic sheets, a robotic arm 5 to acquire a grip of one of the sheet for positioning the sheet on the platform 1, a container for storing multiple tools and components, multiple electronically controlled nozzles 6 to dispense an adhesive solution stored in a vessel arranged on the rod 7, and a pair of robotic grippers 8 to grab a required tool from the container for affixing the cut sheet around the chimney, in a manner that the gaps are sealed.

Specification

Description:FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0001] The present invention relates to an adaptable chimney-sealant installation assistive device that is capable of providing a means to assist a user in installing a chimney-sealant with a chimney by determining gaps around the chimney and accordingly evaluates dimension of a cover required without any requirement of skills thereby prevent chances of error in installing the chimney-sealant.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0002] A chimney is a vertical structure typically found on rooftops, designed to expel smoke, gases, and other by-products of combustion from a fireplace, stove, furnace, or boiler to the outside atmosphere. Importance lies in promoting indoor air quality by preventing the build-up of harmful pollutants, such as carbon monoxide, while also enhancing fire safety by directing heat away from combustible materials. Additionally, chimneys facilitate efficient heating and ventilation systems, making them integral components of residential and industrial buildings alike.

[0003] Traditionally mortar joint sealing method is uses where applying a specialized mortar mix directly into the joints between chimney bricks or stones. However, mortar degrade due to weathering and thermal expansion and contraction, leading to cracks and gaps that allow water infiltration. Additionally, mortar joint sealing may require frequent maintenance and reapplication to remain effective. Another traditional method is flashing installation. Installing metal flashing around the base of the chimney where meets the roof, secured with fasteners and sealed with roofing cement. However, improper installation or deterioration of flashing materials result in water leakage, leading to roof and chimney damage. Flashing also require periodic inspection and maintenance to ensure its effectiveness against water intrusion. Thus, there is a need to develop an innovative tool that provide a more time-efficient and consistent where traditional methods may fall short and to meet the evolving demands of modern requirements.

[0004] CN206010176U discloses the present invention relates to to a kind of pre-manufactured steel chimney shell ring connecting device of steel stack attachment means, which includes the hoop component for being connected between contiguous prefabricated steel stack shell ring, sealing member, and connect the support member of outer tube for pre-manufactured steel chimney shell ring, hoop component includes anchor ear, bolt, nut, anchor ear medial surface is provided with V-shaped groove along anchor ear circular arc direction, the flange docking that V-shaped groove is used for contiguous prefabricated steel stack shell ring in chimney is spacing, anchor ear lateral surface is provided with V-arrangement face along anchor ear circular arc direction, the two ends of anchor ear are fixed with for connecting bolt, the deck of nut.Its structural feature is that deck is provided with the centrage in a bolt connecting hole, the centrage of bolt connecting hole and anchor ear V-arrangement face in same level, and deck is used for the draw-in groove that the side of attaching nut is provided with nut screw connection and limits nut rotation.This utility model simple structure, easy accessibility are laborsaving, and connection reliability is high, is difficult to loosen and deforms, it is adaptable to the connection of pre-manufactured steel chimney shell ring.

[0005] CN210558909U discloses the present invention relates to an intelligent lifting appliance for chimney installation, which is arranged in the inner cavity of a chimney and comprises a lifting rod assembly, an actuating mechanism assembly, a transmission mechanism assembly and an illumination display assembly; the actuating mechanism assembly can be controlled to clamp the chimney through the transmission mechanism assembly, and then the lifting operation of the chimney can be realized through lifting the suspender assembly. This intelligence hoist can remote control realize the lift operation of chimney section, cooperates the illumination to show the assembly effect simultaneously, can be in remote control actuating mechanism, and the jack catch is more accurate with the block of chimney wall pressure muscle draw-in groove.

[0006] Conventionally, many devices exist that is capable of assisting chimney-sealant installation. However, these devices fail in installing a chimney-sealant with gaps of chimney by evaluating dimension of a cover required for the chimney and required tool for affixing cut sheet around the chimney, in a manner that the gaps are sealed.

[0007] In order to overcome the aforementioned drawbacks, there exists a need in the art to develop a device that is capable of assisting a user in installing a chimney-sealant with gaps of chimney by evaluating dimension of a cover required for the chimney along with adding a means to dispense an adhesive solution and accordingly grab a required tool for affixing cut sheet around the chimney, in a manner that the gaps are sealed.

OBJECTS OF THE INVENTION

[0008] The principal object of the present invention is to overcome the disadvantages of the prior art.

[0009] An object of the present invention is to develop a device that is capable of assisting a user in installing a chimney-sealant with gaps of chimney by evaluating dimension of a cover required for the chimney along with cutting of the sheet from the elevated portions without any requirement of skills thereby prevent chances of error in installing the chimney-sealant.

[0010] Another object of the present invention is to develop a device that is capable of adding a means to dispense an adhesive solution and accordingly grab a required tool for affixing cut sheet around the chimney, in a manner that the gaps are sealed, thereby installing the chimney sealant covering around the chimney.

[0011] Yet another object of the present invention is to develop a device that is reliable in nature.

[0012] The foregoing and other objects, features, and advantages of the present invention will become readily apparent upon further review of the following detailed description of the preferred embodiment as illustrated in the accompanying drawings.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0013] The present invention relates to an adaptable chimney-sealant installation assistive device that is capable of assist a user in installing a chimney-sealant with a chimney by determining gaps around the chimney and accordingly evaluates dimension of a cover required without any requirement of skills.

[0014] According to an embodiment of the present invention, an adaptable chimney-sealant installation assistive device, comprising of a platform developed to be positioned on a fixed surface of a roof, plurality of motorized wheels are arranged underneath the platform to move the platform on the surface for positioning the platform in proximity to a chimney, an artificial intelligence-based imaging unit installed on the platform and paired with processor for capturing and processing multiple images in vicinity of the platform, respectively to determine gaps around the chimney, a chamber arranged on the platform for storing multiple metallic sheets, a robotic arm installed on the platform to acquire a grip of one of the sheet for positioning the sheet on the platform, a container arranged on the platform for storing multiple tools and components, the arm to acquire a grip of a cutting unit stored in the container for positioning the cutting unit in proximity to the positioned sheet, plurality of electronically controlled nozzles integrated in the platform by means of a telescopically operated rod for positioning the nozzle in proximity to the chimney, the nozzles to dispense an adhesive solution stored in a vessel arranged on the rod.

[0015] According to another embodiment of the present invention, a pair of robotic grippers integrated on the platform to grab a required tool from the container for affixing the cut sheet around the chimney, in a manner that the gaps are sealed, thereby installing the chimney sealant covering around the chimney, a V-shaped plate is integrated on the platform for enabling the arm to bend the sheet, the tools may include but are not limited to wrench, screw-driver, nuts and bolts, an battery is configured with the device for providing a continuous power supply to electronically powered components associated with the device.

[0016] While the invention has been described and shown with particular reference to the preferred embodiment, it will be apparent that variations might be possible that would fall within the scope of the present invention.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0017] These and other features, aspects, and advantages of the present invention will become better understood with regard to the following description, appended claims, and accompanying drawings where:
Figure 1 illustrates an isometric view of an adaptable chimney-sealant installation assistive device.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0018] The following description includes the preferred best mode of one embodiment of the present invention. It will be clear from this description of the invention that the invention is not limited to these illustrated embodiments but that the invention also includes a variety of modifications and embodiments thereto. Therefore, the present description should be seen as illustrative and not limiting. While the invention is susceptible to various modifications and alternative constructions, it should be understood, that there is no intention to limit the invention to the specific form disclosed, but, on the contrary, the invention is to cover all modifications, alternative constructions, and equivalents falling within the spirit and scope of the invention as defined in the claims.

[0019] In any embodiment described herein, the open-ended terms "comprising," "comprises," and the like (which are synonymous with "including," "having" and "characterized by") may be replaced by the respective partially closed phrases "consisting essentially of," consists essentially of," and the like or the respective closed phrases "consisting of," "consists of, the like.

[0020] As used herein, the singular forms "a," "an," and "the" designate both the singular and the plural, unless expressly stated to designate the singular only.

[0021] The present invention relates to an adaptable chimney-sealant installation assistive device that is capable of assisting a user in installing a chimney-sealant with gaps of chimney by evaluating dimension of a cover required for the chimney along with cutting of the sheet from the elevated portions as well as capable of adding a means to dispense an adhesive solution and accordingly grab a required tool for affixing cut sheet around the chimney, in a manner that the gaps are sealed.

[0022] Referring to Figure 1, an isometric view of an adaptable chimney-sealant installation assistive device is illustrated, comprising a platform 1 integrated with multiple motorized wheels 2 arranged underneath the platform 1 , an artificial intelligence-based imaging unit 3 installed on the platform 1, a chamber 4 arranged on the platform 1, a robotic arm 5 installed on the platform 1, multiple electronically controlled nozzles 6 integrated in the platform 1 by means of a telescopically operated rod 7, a pair of robotic grippers 8 integrated on the platform 1, and a V-shaped plate 9 integrated on the platform 1.

[0023] The proposed device comprises of a platform 1 utilize to develop and position on a fixed surface of a roof. Herein, multiple motorized wheels 2 are arranged underneath the platform 1 to move the platform 1 on the surface for positioning the platform 1 in proximity to a chimney. Each of the wheels 2 are coupled with a DC (Direct Current) motor that is activated by a microcontroller to provide circular motion to the wheels 2. The working principle of a DC motor is based on the interaction between a magnetic field and an electric current. When an electric current flows through the coil of wire, also known as the armature, it creates a magnetic field. This magnetic field interacts with the fixed magnets, known as the stator, causing the armature to rotate. The rotation is achieved by reversing the direction of the current flow in the armature coil using a commutator and brushes that provide continuous movement of the motor results in providing circular motion to the wheels 2 to move the platform 1 on the surface for positioning the platform 1 in proximity to the chimney as per requirements.

[0024] Further, an artificial intelligence-based imaging unit 3 installed on the platform 1 for detecting gaps around the chimney. The imaging unit 3 comprises of a camera and processor that works in collaboration to detect the gaps around the chimney. The AI (artificial intelligence) protocols encrypted with the processor linked with the imagining module to enhance its functionality and capabilities. The AI protocols are used to process and analyses the images captured by the camera enabling it to perform various tasks beyond traditional image capturing. The AI analysis is performed locally on the camera itself and the real-time processing on the camera enables immediate responses and faster decision-making.

[0025] The camera, herein captures images of the vicinity of the platform 1 with the help of specialized lenses designed to capture high-quality visuals. The captured data is now pre-processed via the processor to enhance its quality and prepare it for AI analysis. This pre-processing involves tasks such as noise reduction, image stabilization, or color correction. The processed data is fed into AI protocols for analysis which utilizes machine learning techniques, such as deep learning neural networks, to extract meaningful information present in the images.

[0026] The camera is capable of analysing the vicinity of the platform 1 and providing real-time updates or alerts about the vicinity of the platform 1 based on predefined rules or criteria. Herein, based on extraction of the data from the captured images, the microcontroller analyzes the data to detect the gaps around the chimney. Based on detection, the microcontroller evaluates dimension of a cover required. After that the microcontroller actuates a robotic arm 5 installed on the platform 1 to acquire a grip of one of metallic sheet from a chamber 4 arranged on the platform 1 for positioning the sheet on the platform 1. The robotic arm 5 comprises of a shoulder, elbow and wrist. All these parts are configured with the microcontroller. The elbow is at the middle section of the arm 5 that allows the upper part of the arm 5 to move the lower section independently. Lastly, the wrist is at the tip of the upper arm 5 and attached to the end effector works as hand to grip the sheet and position on the platform 1.

[0027] Further, the microcontroller evaluates particular portions that are to be cut, the microcontroller actuates the arm 5 to acquire a grip of a cutting unit stored in a container stored with multiple tools and components may include but are not limited to wrench, screw-driver, nuts and bolts arranged on the platform 1 for positioning the cutting unit in proximity to the positioned sheet. After that the robotic arm 5 actuate the cutting unit by switching on the cutting unit to cut the sheet from the evaluates portions. Herein, the microcontroller actuates a telescopically operated rod 7 configured with each of multiple electronically controlled nozzles 6 ranging from 4 to 6 in numbers integrated in the platform 1 for positioning the nozzle in proximity to the chimney.

[0028] The rod 7 is equipped with a pneumatic unit that is activated by the microcontroller to provide extension and retraction of the rod 7. The pneumatic unit comprises of an air compressor, air cylinder, air valves and piston. The air valve that allows entry or exit of the compressed air from the compressor. Furthermore, the valve opens and the compressed air enters inside the cylinder thereby increasing the air pressure of the cylinder. The piston is connected to the cylinder and due to the increase in the air pressure, the piston extends due to which the rod 7 extends for positioning the nozzle in proximity to the chimney.

[0029] After that the microcontroller actuates the nozzles 6 to dispense an adhesive solution stored in a vessel arranged on the rod 7. The nozzle, herein includes solenoids, piezoelectric actuators, or motor-driven mechanisms that converts electrical signals into mechanical motion. The nozzle is controlled by a control unit that sends electrical signals to the actuation mechanism. The control unit includes a pulse width modulation (PWM) or analog voltage control. The primary function of the nozzle is to control the opening and closing of the nozzle's orifice or aperture. Upon receiving the appropriate electrical signal by the actuation mechanism, it initiates the motion that opens or closes the nozzle. This action controls the flow of the solution through the nozzle. The nozzle allows precise control over the flow rate and direction of the solution. By modulating the actuation mechanism according to the desired parameters, the nozzle is capable to regulate the flow and provide accurate dispensing solution on the portions.

[0030] Upon dispensing of the cleaning solution on the portions, the microcontroller actuates a pair of robotic grippers 8 integrated on the platform 1 to grab a required tool from the container for affixing the cut sheet around the chimney. The robotic grippers 8 are similar to the robotic arm 5 that acquire grip with tools and affix the cut sheet around the chimney, in a manner that the gaps are sealed, thereby installing the chimney sealant covering around the chimney. Herein, a V-shaped plate 9 is integrated on the platform 1 for enabling the arm 5 to bend the sheet, in case a bent plate 9 structure is required.

[0031] Lastly, a battery (not shown in figure) is associated with the device to offer power to all electrical and electronic components necessary for their correct operation. The battery is linked to the microcontroller and provides (DC) Direct Current to the microcontroller. And then, based on the order of operations, the microcontroller sends that current to those specific electrical or electronic components so they effectively carry out their appropriate functions.

[0032] The present invention works best in following manner that includes the platform 1 developed to be positioned on a fixed surface of a roof. Herein, the motorized wheels 2 are actuate to move the platform 1 on the surface for positioning the platform 1 in proximity to a chimney. The artificial intelligence-based imaging unit 3 detects gaps around the chimney based on which the microcontroller evaluates dimension of a cover required. After that the microcontroller actuates the robotic arm 5 installed on the platform 1 to acquire a grip of one of the sheet for positioning the sheet on the platform 1. Also, the microcontroller evaluates particular portions that are to be cut, based on which the microcontroller actuates the arm 5 to acquire a grip of a cutting unit stored in the container for positioning the cutting unit in proximity to the positioned sheet, followed by actuation of the cutting unit to cut the sheet from the evaluates portions. After that the microcontroller actuates the telescopically operated rod 7 for positioning the nozzle in proximity to the chimney, wherein the microcontroller actuates the nozzles 6 to dispense an adhesive solution stored in a vessel arranged on the rod 7, followed by actuation of the robotic grippers 8 to grab a required tool from the container for affixing the cut sheet around the chimney, in a manner that the gaps are sealed, thereby installing the chimney sealant covering around the chimney.

[0033] Although the field of the invention has been described herein with limited reference to specific embodiments, this description is not meant to be construed in a limiting sense. Various modifications of the disclosed embodiments, as well as alternate embodiments of the invention, will become apparent to persons skilled in the art upon reference to the description of the invention. , Claims:1) An adaptable chimney-sealant installation assistive device, comprising:

i) a platform 1 developed to be positioned on a fixed surface of a roof, wherein plurality of motorized wheels 2 are arranged underneath said platform 1 to move said platform 1 on said surface for positioning said platform 1 in proximity to a chimney;
ii) an artificial intelligence-based imaging unit 3 installed on said platform 1 and paired with processor for capturing and processing multiple images in vicinity of said platform 1, respectively to determine gaps around said chimney, based on which an inbuilt microcontroller evaluates dimension of a cover required;
iii) a chamber 4 arranged on said platform 1 for storing multiple metallic sheets, wherein said microcontroller actuates a robotic arm 5 installed on said platform 1 to acquire a grip of one of said sheet for positioning said sheet on said platform 1;
iv) a container arranged on said platform 1 for storing multiple tools and components, wherein said microcontroller evaluates particular portions that are to be cut, based on which said microcontroller actuates said arm 5 to acquire a grip of a cutting unit stored in said container for positioning said cutting unit in proximity to said positioned sheet, followed by actuation of said cutting unit to cut said sheet from said evaluates portions; and
v) plurality of electronically controlled nozzles 6 integrated in said platform 1 by means of a telescopically operated rod 7 for positioning said nozzle in proximity to said chimney, wherein said microcontroller actuates said nozzles 6 to dispense an adhesive solution stored in a vessel arranged on said rod 7, followed by actuation of a pair of robotic grippers 8 integrated on said platform 1 to grab a required tool from said container for affixing said cut sheet around said chimney, in a manner that said gaps are sealed, thereby installing said chimney sealant covering around said chimney.

2) The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein a V-shaped plate 9 is integrated on said platform 1 for enabling said arm 5 to bend said sheet, in case a bent plate 9 structure is required.

3) The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein said tools may include but are not limited to wrench, screw-driver, nuts and bolts.

4) The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein a battery is configured with said device for providing a continuous power supply to electronically powered components associated with said device.

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