Patent attributes
An automated wind turbine servicing system that includes a rover, and uses an active electro-mechanical gripping roller system to attach to a horizontally positioned airfoil and navigate along it in order to clean, inspect, service, or otherwise maintain the wind turbine airfoil. An electromechanical compression system adapts to various turbine airfoil profiles. Once secured to the airfoil, the rover activates a drive system that propels the rover along the airfoil as it travels along an upper edge, using wind pressure, the rover wheels' frictional adherence to the airfoil, and gravity to assist in coupling the rover to the airfoil. The rover, which preferably includes a robotic arm, is able to utilize multiple tools to perform various tasks such as inspecting, cleaning, sanding, repairing, painting and laying leading edge protection tape as well as vortex generators on the surface of the airfoil.
