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The Indian Army is testing an innovative robotic system that could revolutionize the way it maintains its artillery and tank guns. A viral video showcasing the Gridbots VIPER robot in action has highlighted its advanced capabilities in cleaning and inspecting gun barrels.
This cutting-edge technology, currently undergoing trials at select locations, promises to replace the traditional manual cleaning process, bringing greater efficiency, precision, and automation to this critical maintenance task.
Equipped with the zSCAN, one of the most accurate laser 3D profilometers available, the Gridbots VIPER robot offers a comprehensive solution for gun barrel maintenance. This advanced tool allows for thorough inspection and cleaning of various gun barrels, including those used in artillery, tanks, and even submarine and airborne weapon systems.
The traditional method of cleaning gun barrels involves a team of personnel using a steel brush attached to a long rod. This process is not only labor-intensive and time-consuming but also prone to inconsistencies. Manual cleaning struggles to effectively remove residue from the intricate rifling inside the barrels, potentially compromising accuracy and performance.
Moreover, the use of steel brushes can cause wear and tear over time, reducing the barrel's lifespan. In active combat zones or high-intensity environments, manual cleaning becomes even more challenging, potentially leading to suboptimal performance due to unclean barrels.
The VIPER robot addresses these challenges with its advanced features:
- 3D Profilometry: This technology provides a detailed analysis of the barrel's condition, measuring the depth and dimensions of any imperfections and identifying levels of wear or damage.
- Automated Cleaning: The robot utilizes soft nylon brushes to effectively remove carbon deposits, copper slags, fouling, and combustion residues without causing damage to the rifling or the barrel's interior.
- Post-Cleaning Lubrication: After cleaning, the robot applies a protective layer of lubrication to prevent corrosion and extend the barrel's operational life.
- Integrated Drying Mechanism: A built-in drying system ensures the barrel is instantly dry and ready for use after cleaning and lubrication, regardless of environmental conditions.
