Research and experiment of a novel leak detection robot

Purpose This paper addresses the issue of exterior wall leakage inspection in the construction industry. Currently, leakage inspections primarily rely on manual operation and empirical judgment, which often fail to meet industry standards and result in low efficiency, leading to frequent leakage issues during the operation and maintenance stages. This paper proposes the design of a new leakage inspection robot and a novel control method to enhance effectiveness and efficiency. Design/methodology/approach The robot integrates multiple sensors and maintains operational stability through a posture control strategy. Using technologies such as machine vision, the robot locates the window seam and navigates the sliding platform to the target. The pressure control module ensures that water-spraying factors at the seam meet relevant standards. Findings Compared to manual methods, the robot maintains stable water pressure that complies with relevant standards through collaborative control using IMU, encoders and other sensors, demonstrating superior performance over human labor. Additionally, using machine vision, the robot navigates the sliding platform to the target window seam for the water-spraying test. Originality/value This paper addresses the limitations of traditional leakage inspection methods by developing an innovative leakage inspection robot and control strategy. Significant results have been achieved through various applications, further validating its effectiveness and efficiency.