Packersystem

Abstract

A packer system (100) is provided for a sewer inspection and / or maintenance system (1), comprising a first packer (10) and a second packer (10'), wherein - the first packer (10) comprises a first housing (11) with a first shell surface (12), wherein a first radially inflatable bellows (13) is arranged on the first shell surface (12), and wherein a first pressure chamber (14) is formed between the first shell surface (12) and the first bellows (13), and - the second packer (10') comprises a second housing (11') with a second shell surface (12'), wherein a second radially inflatable bellows (13') is arranged on the second shell surface (12'), and wherein a second pressure chamber (14') is formed between the second shell surface (12') and the second bellows (13').

Description

Field of invention

[0001] The invention relates to a packer system for a sewer inspection and / or maintenance system, wherein the packer system comprises two packers. Background of the invention

[0002] In the area of ​​sewer inspection and / or maintenance, particularly of wastewater sewers, damaged areas of the sewer or sewer wall can be repaired. For example, cracks in the sewer wall or roots penetrating the sewer wall must be removed. To do this, it is first necessary to locate the damaged area. If water escapes through the sewer wall, the leak is not always visually apparent, for example, if it is hidden behind deposits or encrustations. In this case, the leak can be located using a leak test. For this purpose, the section of sewer to be tested can be sealed with sealing devices inserted through two adjacent manholes, and the sealed section can then be pressurized with compressed air. However, this has the disadvantage that two separate sealing systems are required (one for each manhole).

[0003] During rehabilitation work, such as removing roots or encrustations, milling cutters mounted on a carriage can be used. During milling operations, where significant forces act on the cutter, the carriage can shift within the pipe due to these forces, requiring the carriage and / or the cutter to be repositioned regularly. This can considerably increase the milling time. Furthermore, the carriage to which the cutter is mounted is unavailable for other tasks during the milling process. Object of the invention

[0004] The object of the present invention is therefore to provide solutions that at least partially overcome the aforementioned disadvantages and problems and enable more efficient and simpler inspection and / or rehabilitation of canals. Inventive solution

[0005] This task is solved by a packer system for a sewer inspection and / or maintenance system, comprising a first packer and a second packer, wherein - the first packer comprises a first housing with a first shell surface, wherein a first radially inflatable bellows is arranged on the first shell surface, and wherein a first pressure chamber is formed between the first shell surface and the first bellows, and - the second packer comprises a second housing with a second shell surface, wherein a second radially inflatable bellows is arranged on the second shell surface, and wherein a second pressure chamber is formed between the second shell surface and the second bellows.

[0006] The housings are robustly designed. Because the housings are robustly designed, the packers are also particularly robust. This is because the inflatable bellows is attached to the housing shell. The bellows itself does not need to be robust in this respect, allowing for a wider range of materials and material combinations to be used for the bellows.

[0007] The packer system may further include a compressed air generation unit, wherein the compressed air generation unit is operationally coupled to the first pressure chamber and to the second pressure chamber and is adapted to pressurize the first pressure chamber and the second pressure chamber.

[0008] The compressed air generation unit can be adapted to pressurize the first pressure chamber and the second pressure chamber independently of each other.

[0009] It is advantageous if the first housing is designed as a hollow cylinder with a first interior space and a first housing shell having the first outer surface, wherein the compressed air generation unit is arranged in the first interior space of the first housing.

[0010] This provides a compact packer system with its own integrated compressed air generation unit. External compressed air generation units (compressors) are therefore unnecessary. A further advantage is that no compressed air hoses are required in the ductwork that would otherwise need to be routed to the packer system. A trolley (or pusher) no longer needs to drag compressed air hoses behind it, allowing for a more compact trolley design and reduced energy consumption.

[0011] In the first housing shell, a first through-hole can be formed that connects the first interior space of the first housing with the first pressure chamber, wherein the compressed air generation unit is connected to the first through-hole in a pressure-tight manner on the interior side, preferably via a first compressed air line, so that the first pressure chamber can be pressurized via the first through-hole with the compressed air generation unit.

[0012] It is advantageous if the compressed air generation unit is operationally coupled to the second pressure chamber via a second compressed air line. This means that only a single compressed air generation unit needs to be provided for both packs.

[0013] The second housing can be designed as a hollow cylinder with a second interior space and a second housing shell having the second outer surface, wherein a second through-hole is formed in the second housing shell, which connects the second interior space of the second housing to the second pressure chamber, wherein the second compressed air line is connected to the second through-hole in a pressure-tight manner.

[0014] Packer system according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the first housing is coupled to the second housing in the axial direction via a connecting unit, preferably detachably. This allows the area between the two packers to be increased by decoupling the second packer from the first packer and thus increasing the distance between the first and second packers.

[0015] The connecting unit may contain a compressed air channel that forms a section of the second compressed air line.

[0016] In one embodiment of the invention, the first housing and the second housing can be formed in one piece and together form a one-piece packer housing, wherein the first inflatable bellows and the second inflatable bellows are arranged axially spaced apart from each other on the lateral surface formed by the one-piece packer housing.

[0017] It is advantageous to have a sensor unit positioned between the first and second bellows. This allows the packer system to perform pressure measurements between the two packers.

[0018] The sensor unit can include a pressure sensor, with the sensor unit being located on the first housing or on the second housing.

[0019] The packer system may also include a power supply unit to provide electrical energy for the compressed air generation unit.

[0020] The power supply unit may include a battery (or a capacitor) located in the first interior space of the first housing.

[0021] The packer system can include a control unit that is coupled to and adapted for controlling the compressed air generation unit. This allows the packer to operate completely autonomously. This means that the packer can be operated in the duct without any additional equipment or devices. The packer simply needs to be moved to the desired location in the duct.

[0022] The control unit can be located in the first interior space of the first housing and coupled to the power supply unit, with the control unit being supplied with electrical energy by the power supply unit.

[0023] The compressed air generation unit and / or the power supply unit and / or the control unit can be arranged in a fluid- and / or gas-tight manner within the first interior space of the first housing. This allows the packer to be used even in damp or water-bearing ducts.

[0024] The control unit can be coupled, or capable of being coupled, to a control device located outside the packer system via a wired or wireless communication link. This allows the packer to be controlled, for example, from outside the channel.

[0025] The packer system can include a first coupling unit of a coupling device, with which the packer system can be detachably attached to a transport unit. This allows the packer system, for example, to be moved to the desired location in the sewer using a trolley and then detached from the trolley. The trolley is then available for other tasks.

[0026] The first housing and / or the second housing and / or the first bellows and / or the second bellows may have a drain valve through which overpressure in the first pressure chamber and / or in the second pressure chamber can be reduced.

[0027] The drain valve can be controlled by the control unit.

[0028] A compressed air opening can be provided between the first packer and the second packer, through which the environment of the packer system, in particular the area between the first bellows and the second bellows, can be pressurized.

[0029] The compressed air opening can be operationally coupled to the compressed air generation unit. Brief description of the characters

[0030] Further details and features of the invention, as well as specific, particularly advantageous embodiments of the invention, will become apparent from the following description in conjunction with the drawing. It shows: Fig. 1 a sewer inspection and / or maintenance system comprising a transport unit and a sewer inspection and / or maintenance unit or operating equipment designed as a packer; Fig. 2 a canal inspection and / or maintenance unit designed as a packer; Fig. 3 a transport unit with a canal inspection and / or maintenance unit attached to it; Fig. 4 one transport unit and two canal inspection and / or maintenance units; Fig. 5. A design of a canal inspection and / or maintenance unit designed as a packer; Fig. 6 two end sections of a canal inspection and / or maintenance unit designed as a packer; Fig. 7 two possible cross-sections of a packer housing; Fig. 8 two canal inspection and / or maintenance units designed as packers, connected to each other; Fig. 9 two channel inspection and / or maintenance units designed as packers, which have a common housing; Fig. 10 a coupling device with which a canal inspection and / or maintenance unit can be detachably coupled to a transport unit; Fig. 11 Two canal inspection and / or maintenance units designed as packers, which can be detachably coupled to each other via a coupling device; Fig. 12 a specific design of a packer in a perspective view; Fig. 13 a specific design of a packer in a perspective view with an axial camera attached to it; Fig. 14 a specific embodiment of a packer in a perspective view with a milling tool attached to it; Fig. 15 a specific design of a packer in a perspective view with a pan-tilt camera attached to it; Fig. 16 a specific packer system with two packers (double packer) in a perspective view with an axial camera attached to it; Fig. 17 a specific packer system with two packers (double packer) in a perspective view with a milling tool attached to it; Fig. 18 a specific packer system with two packers (double packer) in a perspective view with a pan-tilt camera attached to it; Fig. 19 a longitudinal section of a perspective view of a specific packer; Fig. 20 a first and a second coupling element; Fig. 21 the in Fig. 20 coupling elements shown for coupling a packer to a carriage; and Fig. 22 the coupling device according to Fig. 10 with the in Fig. 20 coupling elements shown. Detailed description of the invention

[0031] In the following, a sewer inspection and / or maintenance system will also be referred to simply as an "inspection system". A sewer inspection and / or maintenance unit will also be referred to simply as an "inspection unit".

[0032] Fig. Figure 1 shows a sewer inspection and / or maintenance system 1 with a transport unit 22 and a sewer inspection and / or maintenance unit or operating equipment 150 designed as a packer 10.

[0033] The transport unit 22 is designed here as a carriage that can be placed in and moved within a channel 300. Alternatively, the transport unit 22 can also be designed as a pusher that can be moved within the channel 300.

[0034] The transport unit 22, which is designed here as a carriage, contains a compressed air generation unit 15. The compressed air generation unit 15 can be a compressor. This allows the compressed air generation unit 15 to be moved along the carriage 22 in the channel.

[0035] The advantage here is that the compressed air required in the channel, for example for maintenance purposes, can be generated and provided where it is needed.

[0036] This eliminates the need for compressed air hoses, which supply the crawler or other equipment mounted on it with compressed air from a compressor located outside the sewer. Because compressed air hoses no longer need to be pulled into or behind the crawler, the crawler requires less power and therefore consumes less energy. Furthermore, compressed air can be supplied at any point in the sewer, whereas with compressed air hoses, the crawler's reach within the sewer is limited, as the power and traction are insufficient beyond a certain length of trailing hose to extend it further into the sewer. Finally, direct or indirect losses, such as those caused by the length of the compressed air hose or by leaks, are avoided.

[0037] The longer the required compressed air hoses, the more powerful the compressors must be to deliver the compressed air at the desired pressure to the point of use, i.e., to the transport unit 22. However, if a compressed air generation unit 15 is provided in the transport unit 22, compressors with significantly less power can be used to generate compressed air at the required pressure.

[0038] A control unit 18 is arranged in the carriage 22 and coupled to the compressed air generation unit 15. The compressed air generation unit 15 can be controlled by the control unit 18. The control unit 18 can be communicated via a communication link 20, which can be wireless or wired, with a control device located outside the channel 300 (in Fig. (1 not shown) are coupled. The operator can control the compressed air generation unit 15 via the control device. The control unit 18 can receive control commands from the control device and control the compressed air generation unit 15 accordingly. Depending on the equipment being supplied with compressed air, the control unit 18 can limit the maximum pressure to be generated. Control commands from the control device that would increase the pressure, but which is not permissible for the equipment being supplied with compressed air, can thus be ignored by the control unit 18. Equipment can thus be protected from damage or excessive wear.

[0039] The compressed air generation unit 15 can also be directly coupled to the control device located outside the channel 300.

[0040] The compressed air generation unit 15 can also be arranged on the carriage 22, for example in a housing that is attached to the carriage 22 and has a corresponding interface via which the compressed air generation unit 15 can be coupled to the control unit 18. In this case, it may be advantageous if the control unit 18 can be detachably attached to the carriage.

[0041] At the in Fig. In the example shown, the channel inspection and / or maintenance unit or operating equipment 150 is designed as a packer 10. The function of a packer is known from the prior art.

[0042] The compressed air generation unit 15 arranged in the carriage 22 is used here to supply the packer 10 with compressed air. The packer 10 is in Fig. Figure 1 shows the packer 10 detached from the carriage 22, with the packer 10 connected to the compressed air generation unit 15 via a compressed air line 15a. Alternatively, the packer 10 can also be connected to the carriage 22, as shown, for example, in Figure 1. Fig. 4 shown.

[0043] The packer 10 has a housing 11, which can be designed as a hollow cylinder and has an interior 11c and a housing shell 11d. A radially inflatable bellows 13 is arranged on the shell surface 12 of the housing 11. In the region of the end sections of the housing 11, the bellows 13 is airtightly attached to the housing 11 or to the shell surface 12, so that a pressure chamber 14 is formed between the shell surface 12 of the housing 11 and the bellows 13.

[0044] The compressed air generation unit 15 is operationally coupled to the pressure chamber 14 in order to pressurize the pressure chamber 14. For this purpose, a through-hole 16 is formed in the housing shell 11d, which connects the interior 11c of the housing 11 with the pressure chamber 14, thus completely penetrating the housing shell 11d. The compressed air generated and supplied by the compressed air generation unit 15 is fed to the pressure chamber 14 via this through-hole 16.

[0045] The compressed air generation unit 15 is connected to the through-hole 16 on the interior side in a pressure-tight manner. This connection is made via the aforementioned compressed air line 15a.

[0046] With the in Fig. In the embodiment of a channel inspection and / or maintenance system 1 shown, a packer 10 can be placed in a channel 300 with a carriage 22 and filled with compressed air by the compressed air generation unit 15, which is arranged in the carriage 22, without the need to run compressed air hoses to the carriage 22 or to the packer 10.

[0047] In one embodiment, the packer 10 can be detached from the carriage 22 after being filled with compressed air. The carriage 22 can then move away from the packer 10, while the packer 10 remains in the channel 300. In this case, the compressed air line 15a is designed in two parts, with the two sections of the compressed air line 15a being pressure-tightly connectable to each other via a coupling.

[0048] One possible embodiment of a coupling mechanism with which the packer 10 can be coupled to the carriage 22 is shown in Fig. Packer 10.

[0049] In Fig. Figure 1 shows the compressed air generation unit 15 for supplying a packer 10. However, other equipment 150 can also be used with the compressed air generation unit 15 instead of a packer 10. For example, a cleaning nozzle can be provided as equipment 150, which can be used to remove deposits from the inner wall of the channel 300 using compressed air. According to another example, a compressed air-operated milling machine can be provided as equipment 150. These pieces of equipment have in common that they can be coupled to the compressed air generation unit 15 of the transport vehicle, and the compressed air generation unit 15 provides the compressed air required for the operation of the equipment.

[0050] The carriage 22 may also be equipped with a power supply unit 17, which may be designed to supply the compressed air generation unit 15 with electrical energy. The power supply unit 17 may be a battery. Depending on its specific design, the power supply unit 17 is either directly connected to the compressed air generation unit 15 or indirectly connected to it via the control unit 18.

[0051] The carriage 22 can itself be supplied with electrical energy via supply lines (not shown here), for example from a power source located outside the channel. In this configuration, it can be advantageous if the compressed air generation unit 15 is supplied or operated with the externally provided electrical energy, whereby the power supply unit 17 can be used as an additional power source in case the power required by the compressed air generation unit 15 cannot be fully supplied by the external power source.

[0052] According to one embodiment, the compressed air generation unit 15 and the carriage 22 can be supplied with electrical energy exclusively by the power supply unit 17. If the communication link 20 is wireless, the carriage 22, possibly together with the operating equipment, can thus be moved in the channel without the need to drag cables or hoses behind it. However, a particular advantage in all embodiments is that compressed air is generated and supplied by the compressed air generation unit 15 of the carriage 22.

[0053] Instead of a carriage 22, a push rod can also be provided as the transport unit. A housing can be provided at the free end of the push rod, in which the compressed air generation unit 15 is arranged. Alternatively, the compressed air generation unit 15 can be integrated into the free end of the push rod. The compressed air generation unit 15 can be coupled to a sewer inspection and / or maintenance unit 10 or a piece of equipment 150 by means of connecting means in order to supply compressed air to the maintenance unit 10 or the piece of equipment 150.

[0054] Fig. Figure 2 shows a channel inspection and / or maintenance unit or operating equipment designed as a Packer 10.

[0055] According to an advantageous embodiment, a compressed air generation unit 15 can be arranged in or on a piece of equipment 150, or more generally in or on a sewer inspection and / or maintenance unit 10. For example, a compressed air generation unit 15 can be arranged in a compressed air-operated milling machine. The compressed air generation unit 15 provides compressed air for the operation of the respective sewer inspection and / or maintenance unit 10 or for use by the respective sewer inspection and / or maintenance unit 10.

[0056] At the in Fig. The channel inspection and / or maintenance unit shown in Figure 2 is a Packer 10. The purpose of a Packer 10 in a channel is generally known and therefore will not be explained in detail.

[0057] The packer 10 has a housing 11, which is preferably designed as a hollow cylinder. The housing 11 has two end sections 11a, 11b, an interior 11c and a housing shell 11d.

[0058] The outer shape of the housing shell 11d can be largely cylindrical, i.e., the housing 11 can have a round outer cross-section. In an alternative embodiment, the outer shape of the housing shell 11d can also have an egg-shaped cross-section, which is particularly advantageous when the packer 10 is used in duct pipes that have an egg-shaped cross-section.

[0059] The housing 11 can be made of metal. For example, the housing 11 can comprise a metal cylinder.

[0060] A radially inflatable bellows 13 is arranged on the outer surface 12 of the housing 11. The bellows 13 rests against the outer surface 12 around its entire circumference.

[0061] The bellows 13 consists of an airtight rubber mat that rests against the outer surface 12 of the housing 11 and can be stretched radially. Instead of an airtight rubber mat, any material can be used that is flexible, stretchable, airtight, and exhibits a certain degree of stability when stretched.

[0062] Optionally, circumferential and radially projecting flanges 12a, 12b can be provided at the end sections 11a, 11b.

[0063] The bellows 13 can be vulcanized or bonded to the housing 11 or to the outer surface 12 at the end sections 11a, 11b or in the area of ​​the end sections 11a, 11b. Alternatively, the bellows 13 can also be bonded to the flanges 12a, 12b.

[0064] In another alternative, the bellows 13 can be attached to the end sections 11a and 11b by means of circumferential clamping rings 25a and 25b (as in Fig. 6 shown) be firmly connected to or fixed on the flanges 12a, 12b or to the shell 11d of the housing 11.

[0065] Regardless of the chosen method of fixing or attaching the bellows 13 to the housing 11, the fixing or attachment is such that the bellows 13 is airtightly attached to the housing 11 or to the outer surface 12. In the longitudinal direction, that is, along the longitudinal axis LA, the bellows 13 rests against the outer surface 12 when deflated. An airtight pressure chamber 14 is thus formed between the outer surface 12 of the housing 11 and the bellows 13, the axial extent of which is limited by the attachment at the two end sections 11a and 11b.

[0066] If flanges 12a and 12b are provided and the bellows 13 is attached to the outer surface 12 in the area of ​​the flanges, the flanges 12a and 12b can prevent axial expansion of the bellows 13 when it is inflated. This means that the flanges prevent longitudinal expansion or at least minimize it.

[0067] A through-hole 16 is formed in the housing shell 11d. The through-hole 16 completely traverses the housing shell 11d, preferably in a radial direction, that is, it connects the interior 11c of the housing 11 with the pressure chamber 14. The through-hole 16 is designed to pressurize the pressure chamber 14.

[0068] When the pressure chamber 14 is pressurized, the pressure chamber 14 expands and the bellows 13 is inflated in a radial direction, as shown in Fig. 2 shown with the arrow, where the dashed lines show bellows 13 in an inflated state.

[0069] The through-hole 16 can be pressure-tightly coupled to a compressed air generation unit 15, for example via a compressed air line 15a (as also in Fig. 1 shown). The compressed air generation unit 15 can be arranged outside the housing 11 and coupled to the through-hole 16 via a compressed air line 15a.

[0070] In an alternative embodiment, the compressed air generation unit 15 can be arranged in the interior 11c of the housing 11 (as in Fig. (2 shown) and connected to the through-hole 16 via a compressed air line 15a in a pressure-tight manner. This provides a packer 10 which has its own compressed air generation unit 15 (e.g. a compressor) and can thus be used and operated independently of external compressed air generation units (external compressors) in a duct.

[0071] In one embodiment, the packer 10 can optionally include a power supply unit 17, which can be used to provide electrical energy to the compressed air generation unit 15. The power supply unit 17 can be a battery, which can be located in the interior 11c of the housing 11. If the power supply unit 17 is only required to provide additional power to the compressed air generation unit 15 for short periods, the power supply unit 17 can also be designed as a supercapacitor.

[0072] About a in Fig. The battery 17 can be connected to an external power source (not shown) to charge the battery if necessary. If an external power source is provided, the electrical energy for the compressed air generation unit 15 can also be supplied by it – the battery can then be provided to supply additional electrical power to the compressed air generation unit 15 for short periods.

[0073] In one embodiment, the packer 10 can have a control unit 18 which is coupled to the compressed air generation unit 15. The control unit 18 is adapted to control the compressed air generation unit 15. It is advantageous if the control unit 18 is arranged in the interior 11c of the housing 11.

[0074] The power supply unit 17 can be coupled to the control unit 18 to supply the control unit 18 with electrical energy. Alternatively, the control unit 18 can also be coupled to an external power supply unit to supply it with electrical energy.

[0075] In one embodiment, the compressed air generation unit 15, the power supply unit 17, and the control unit 18 can be arranged in a fluid- and gas-tight manner within the interior 11c of the housing 11. For this purpose, it may be sufficient to seal the housing fluid- and gas-tight at both end faces, for example with a (in Fig. 2 (not shown) covers. One of the two covers can be removed, for example to allow access to the interior 11c of housing 11 for maintenance purposes.

[0076] If the packer 10 is coupled with an external power supply unit, a lid may have corresponding interfaces which are preferably integrated into the lid in a fluid- and gas-tight manner.

[0077] In one embodiment, the control unit 18 can be coupled or connectable to a control device 19 located outside the packer 10 via a wired or wireless communication link 20. In the case of a wired communication link 20, corresponding interfaces can be provided in the aforementioned cover, which are also preferably integrated into the cover in a fluid- and gas-tight manner. In the case of a wireless communication link 20, a transmitting and / or receiving antenna can be integrated into the cover; alternatively, the cover itself can be designed as a transmitting and / or receiving antenna.

[0078] If the compressed air generation unit 15, the power supply unit 17, and the control unit 18 are arranged in the interior 11c of the housing 11, and the communication link 20 is designed as a wireless communication link, a packer can be provided that can be used in the duct without pressure hoses to external compressors and without cables for a communication link. This makes the packer 10 particularly easy and flexible to use in the duct.

[0079] In one embodiment, the housing 11 and / or the bellows 13 can have a drain valve 23 through which overpressure in the pressure chamber 14 can be reduced. In the Fig. In the embodiment shown in Figure 2, the drain valve 23 is arranged in the interior 11c of the housing 11. Furthermore, the drain valve 23 is arranged in a fluid line that connects the pressure chamber 14 with the environment of the packer 10. The drain valve 23 and the fluid line are designed to be fluid- and gas-tight from the interior 11c. The drain valve 23 can be coupled to and controlled by the control unit 18.

[0080] In one embodiment, the drain valve 23 can also be operated manually to reduce the overpressure in the pressure chamber 14. For this purpose, for example, a rope can be provided that is connected on one side to the drain valve 23 and on the other side leads out of the channel to the surface and to an operator.

[0081] In one embodiment, the packer 10 can optionally include a pressure sensor 24 with which the pressure in the pressure chamber 14 can be detected. The pressure sensor 24 can be integrated pressure-tight into the housing jacket 11d, as shown in Fig. 2 shown.

[0082] The pressure sensor 24 can be connected to the control unit 18. The control unit 18 can then, for example, be configured to control the compressed air generation unit 15 in such a way that the pressure chamber 14 is pressurized until a certain pressure is reached in the pressure chamber 14.

[0083] Fig. Figure 3 shows a transport unit 22 with a channel inspection and / or maintenance unit 10 attached to it.

[0084] At the in Fig. The channel inspection and / or maintenance unit 10 shown in Figure 3 is a packer 10, whereby only the end section of the packer 10 facing the transport unit 22 is shown. The transport unit 22 is a pusher eel, to the free end of which the packer 10 is attached.

[0085] The packer 10 is attached to the sliding eel 22 by means of a coupling device 21, wherein a first coupling unit 21a of the coupling device 21 is arranged on the packer 10, preferably on an end face of the packer. The first coupling unit 21a can, for example, be provided on the aforementioned cover with which the interior 11c can be closed. A second coupling unit 21b of the coupling device 21 is arranged at the free end of the sliding eel 22.

[0086] The coupling device 21 and the first coupling unit 21a as well as the second coupling unit 21b are designed such that the packer 10 can be detachably arranged on the transport unit 22 – this applies to both a pusher eel and a carriage as the transport unit 22. The first coupling unit 21a can be detachably connected to the second coupling unit 21b. An example of such a coupling unit 21a is shown in Fig. 10 shown. This allows a channel inspection and / or maintenance unit, for example the packer 10, to be inserted into a channel with the transport unit 22 and then decoupled from the transport unit 22.

[0087] Fig. Figure 4 shows a transport unit 22 and two sewer inspection and / or maintenance units 10. The transport unit is a trolley 22 and the two sewer inspection and / or maintenance units are each packers 10.

[0088] A first packer 10 is coupled to the carriage 22 by means of a first coupling device 21, wherein a first coupling unit 21a of the first coupling device 21 is arranged on the carriage 22 and a second coupling unit 21b of the first coupling device 21 is arranged on the first packer 10.

[0089] The second packer 10' has a second coupling unit 21b of a second coupling device, which is arranged on the end face facing the first packer 10. The first packer 10 also has a first coupling unit 21a of the second coupling device, which is arranged on the end face facing away from the carriage 22, i.e., on the end face facing the second packer 10'. The second packer 10' can be detachably attached to the first packer 10 via the second coupling device, i.e., it can be coupled and uncoupled.

[0090] At the in Fig. In the example shown in Figure 4, the second packer 10' was initially coupled to the first packer 10, and the first packer 10 was coupled to the carriage 22. The carriage 22, together with the two packers 10 and 10', was then moved into channel 300.

[0091] After the second packer 10' reached its deployment location, it was inflated by means of a compressed air generation unit 15. That is, the pressure chamber 14' of the second packer 10' was pressurized with compressed air until the bellows of the second packer 10' had completely pressed against the inner wall of the channel. The second coupling device was then released, and the carriage 22 with the first packer 10 attached to it was moved backward.

[0092] In an alternative embodiment, the second packer 10' can be detached from the first packer 10, i.e., placed in the channel 300 before being inflated. After being placed in the channel, the carriage 22, together with the first packer 10 attached to it, can move away from the second packer 10'. The second packer 10' can then, if as in Fig. As shown in Figure 2, the second packer 10' can inflate itself automatically, since the necessary compressed air generation unit 15 is integrated into the second packer 10'. The compressed air generation unit 15 of the second packer 10' can be controlled via a wireless communication link established between the carriage 22 and the second packer 10'. Alternatively, the control can also be handled by the control unit 18 located in the second packer 10'. In one embodiment, the control unit 18 can be configured such that, after the second packer 10' has been lowered or uncoupled, it autonomously initiates and monitors the pressurization of the second pressure chamber 14'.

[0093] The first packer 10, arranged on the carriage 22, can also be detached from the carriage 22 and inflated. In a configuration of the first packer 10 as shown in Fig. As shown in Figure 2, the pressurization of the pressure chamber 14 of the first packer 10 can be carried out by the compressed air generation unit 15 arranged in the first packer 10. Alternatively, the first packer 10 can also be operated as shown in Figure 2. Fig. 1 shown designed - the first packer 10 is then inflated by the compressed air generation unit 15 of the carriage 22, as shown with reference to Fig. 1 described.

[0094] The two in Fig. The coupling devices shown in Figure 4 are designed such that the respective first coupling unit 21a can be coupled to the respective second coupling unit 21b. This makes it possible for the carriage 22 to pick up the first packer 10 placed in the channel. The first packer 10 can then pick up the second packer 10' placed in the channel. Both packers 10 and 10' can then be retrieved from the channel together with the carriage 22 or moved to another location in the channel.

[0095] Fig. Figure 5 shows a configuration of a channel inspection and / or maintenance unit, which here is a packer 10.

[0096] The packer 10 has a housing 11 to which a radially inflatable bellows 13, forming a pressure chamber 14, is attached. The pressure chamber is formed here between the outer surface 12 of the housing 11 and the bellows 13, as described above.

[0097] The housing 11 has an end face 11e (which is perpendicular to the longitudinal axis LA). An image acquisition device 30 is arranged on the end face 11e. The image acquisition device 30 can be a high-resolution digital or analog video camera. However, for packers 10, it can be advantageous to use low-resolution video cameras, since the video camera in the packer 10 is usually used to find the position in the channel where the packer 10 is to be placed, i.e., inflated. Low-resolution video cameras provide video images of sufficient quality for this purpose.

[0098] Shown in Fig. 5 only one image acquisition device 30. However, several image acquisition devices 30 can also be arranged on the packer 10.

[0099] The image acquisition device 30 is coupled here to a control unit 18, which processes the images / video signals (hereinafter also referred to as image data) captured by the image acquisition device 30. In this context, "processing" can mean or include the following: - The image data is transmitted to a control device (which may include a display device) outside the channel, whereby the image data may be processed (e.g., compressed, converted to another format, converted from digital to analog or vice versa) before transmission. - the image data is stored in a storage device of the control unit 18, and / or - The image data is evaluated in terms of content; for example, patterns can be recognized in the image data.

[0100] The image data can be transmitted to a control device outside the channel via a wired or wireless communication link (not shown here). Control commands for the image acquisition device 30 can also be transmitted from the control device to the control unit 18 via this communication link.

[0101] The image capture device 30 can also be controlled by means of the control unit 18, for example the zoom can be adjusted.

[0102] According to one embodiment, the control unit 18 in the packer 10 can also be omitted. In this case, a corresponding control unit can be provided in the image acquisition device 30 itself. Alternatively, signal and control lines can also be routed directly from the image acquisition device 30 to a control device located outside the channel.

[0103] Fig. Figure 5 shows two possible variants of how an image acquisition device 30 can be integrated into a packer 10, with a first variant shown in Figure (a) and a second variant shown in Figure (b).

[0104] According to the variant shown in Figure (a), the image acquisition device 30 is integrated into the front wall of the housing 11. Part of the image acquisition device 30 projects into the interior of the housing 11.

[0105] According to the variant shown in Figure (b), the image acquisition device 30 is attached to the end wall of the housing 11 by means of a fastening means 31. The fastening means 31 is preferably designed to allow the image acquisition device 30 to be detachably attached. Data and / or signal lines, as well as lines for supplying the image acquisition device 30 with electrical power, can be routed from the image acquisition device 30 through the fastening means 31 into the interior of the housing 11.

[0106] In both variants, the image capture device can be designed to swivel 30 degrees.

[0107] Optionally, 10 can be added to the packer according to Fig. 5 also the remaining ones in Fig. The components shown (compressed air generation unit 15, power supply unit 17, through-hole 16, pressure sensor 24, drain valve 23) are arranged as follows. A packer 10 can therefore be arranged according to... Fig. 2 is provided, on which an image acquisition device 30 is arranged at the front. The power supply unit 17 can also be used to supply the image acquisition device 30 with electrical energy.

[0108] Optionally, the in Fig. 5 Packer 10 shown have a first coupling unit 21a of a coupling device 21 with which the packer 10 can be detachably attached to a transport unit 22.

[0109] Figure (a) of Fig. In section 5, the image acquisition device 30 is coupled to the control unit 18, which in turn (not shown here) can be coupled to an external control device 19. Image data from the image acquisition device 30 can be transmitted to the control device 19 via the control unit 18. Conversely, control commands or other data can be transmitted to the image acquisition device 30 via the control unit 18.

[0110] The foregoing refers to Fig. Section 5 describes a packer 10 in which an image acquisition device 30 is integrated. This allows the channel to be monitored during the advancement of the packer 10 in order to find the desired position at which the packer 10 is to be placed.

[0111] Instead of or in addition to the image acquisition device 30, other devices can also be arranged on the packer 10. Such devices can be, for example, milling cutters, drills, grippers or the like.

[0112] If the devices arranged on the packer 10 are pneumatically operated, they can obtain the compressed air required for operation from the compressed air generation unit 15 of the packer 10. For this purpose, a corresponding compressed air interface can be provided on the packer 10, preferably on the end face where the device is arranged.

[0113] The electrical power supply to the devices arranged on the packer 10 can be provided via the power supply unit 17 located in the packer 10. Appropriate interfaces must also be provided on the end face of the packer 10. Alternatively, the power supply can also be provided via an external power supply unit, in which case the corresponding supply lines are routed through the packer 10 to the devices.

[0114] The use of a packer 10 with attached devices has the advantage that the packer 10 is particularly well stabilized in the channel when inflated, both axially and radially. This also stabilizes the device attached to the packer 10 within the channel. For example, forces acting on a milling cutter during the milling process do not cause the packer 10 to slip within the channel, allowing for more precise milling and eliminating the need to reposition the milling cutter due to a shifted base unit (e.g., a carriage).

[0115] A packer 10 of the aforementioned type is also provided, wherein a machining device (milling cutter, drill, gripper, or the like) is arranged on one end face of the packer 10. The machining device can be coupled to the compressed air generation unit 15 of the packer 10.

[0116] Fig. Figure 6 shows two end sections of a channel inspection and / or maintenance unit designed as a packer 10 and Fig. Figure 7 shows two possible cross-sections of the housing of the [device / product]. Fig. 6 Packers shown.

[0117] In Fig. Figure 6 shows the two end sections 11a, 11b of a packer 10. Also shown are two clamping rings 25a, 25b, with which the bellows 13 is attached to the end sections or in the area of ​​the end sections 11a, 11b.

[0118] In Fig. 7 are two possible cross-sections of the in Fig. 6 shown packers 10 along the cutting axis AA.

[0119] According to Figure (a) of the Fig. The housing shell 11d has a circular outer profile. The interior 11c of the housing 11 has a square or rectangular cross-section. The interior 11c of the housing 11 is connected via a through-hole 16 to the pressure chamber 14, which is formed between the bellows 13 and the outer surface 12 of the housing 11.

[0120] According to Figure (b) of the Fig. The housing shell 11d has a circular outer profile. The interior 11c of the housing 11 has a round or largely round cross-section. The interior 11c of the housing 11 is connected via a through-hole 16 to the pressure chamber 14, which is formed between the bellows 13 and the outer surface 12 of the housing 11.

[0121] According to a variant not shown here, the housing 11 or the housing shell 11d can have an egg-shaped outer profile, on the outer surface 12 of which a bellows 13 can also be arranged, as explained above.

[0122] Fig. Figure 8 shows a packer system with two channel inspection and / or maintenance units designed as packers, which are connected or coupled together.

[0123] The packer system 100 has a first packer 10 and a second packer 10'.

[0124] The first packer 10 comprises a first housing 11 with a first outer surface 12, wherein a first radially inflatable bellows 13 is arranged on the first outer surface 12. A first pressure chamber 14 is formed between the first outer surface 12 and the first bellows 13. The first packer 10 essentially corresponds in its function to that described in Fig. The 2 packers shown and in interior 11c essentially show the in Fig. 2 components shown.

[0125] The second packer 10' comprises a second housing 11' with a second outer surface 12', wherein a second radially inflatable bellows 13' is arranged on the second outer surface 12'. A second pressure chamber 14' is formed between the second outer surface 12' and the second bellows 13'.

[0126] The two housings 11, 11' of the two packers 10, 10' are connected to each other via a connecting unit 40, the connecting unit 40 being arranged on one end face of each of the two packers 10, 10', so that the two packers are connected to each other in the axial direction.

[0127] In one embodiment, the connecting unit 40 can be designed as a tubular connecting unit.

[0128] Inside compartment 11c of the first packer 10, as also in Fig. Figure 2 shows a compressed air generation unit 15 arranged with which the first pressure chamber 14 of the first packer 10 can be pressurized (via the compressed air line 15a).

[0129] The compressed air generation unit 15 can also pressurize the second pressure chamber 14' of the second packer 10'. For this purpose, the compressed air generation unit 15 of the first packer 10 is connected to the second through-hole 16' of the second packer 10' via a second compressed air line 15a'. This second compressed air line 15a' runs from the first packer 10 through the connecting unit 40 into the second interior chamber 11c' of the second packer 10'. There, the second compressed air line 15a' is connected pressure-tight to the second through-hole 16'. This means that only one of the two packers needs to have a compressed air generation unit 15.

[0130] When both packers are inflated, the respective bellows 13, 13' lie airtight against the inner wall of the duct. The housings 11 of the packers 10 are also designed to be airtight. This creates a space or ambient space 200 between the two packers, which is airtight in both directions of the duct.

[0131] The connecting unit 40 has a compressed air opening 43 in its wall, which is coupled to the compressed air generation unit 15 via a compressed air line. This allows the area 200 between the two packers to be pressurized.

[0132] The compressed air line 15a, the compressed air line 15a' and the compressed air line to the compressed air opening 43 are connected here to a valve system 44, which in turn is connected to the compressed air generation unit 15. The supply of compressed air from the compressed air generation unit 15 to the individual compressed air lines can thus be controlled via the valve system 44.

[0133] A sensor unit 42 is also provided on or in the wall of the connecting unit 40. The sensor unit 42 can, for example, comprise a pressure sensor, a temperature sensor, or the like.

[0134] A pressure sensor can be used, for example, to measure the tightness of a section of a channel as follows: The packer system 100 is moved to the desired position in the duct, for example, using a trolley or a pusher. The two packers 10, 10' are inflated by the compressed air generation unit 15 until the bellows 13, 13' are in radial contact with the inner wall of the duct. An ambient space 200 is now created between the two packers, which is hermetically sealed in both directions of the duct. Subsequently, the ambient space 200 is pressurized by the compressed air generation unit 15 via the compressed air inlet 43 until a predetermined pressure is reached in the ambient space 200, which can be detected by the pressure sensor 42. After reaching the predetermined pressure, the compressed air inlet 43 is closed (or alternatively, the corresponding valve of the valve control 44). The pressure in the ambient space 200 is then measured by the pressure sensor 42 over a predetermined period.The pressure profile over time then reveals whether the channel in the area between the two packers is sealed or not.

[0135] Optionally, it can also be done during the in Fig. In the embodiment shown in section 8, an image recording device 30 is provided in one of the two packers, preferably in the front packer 10'.

[0136] With reference to Fig. Figure 1 describes a packer system 100 in which two packers are connected to each other via a tubular connecting unit 40. Alternatively, the two packers can also be connected to each other via a coupling device 21, which allows the second packer 10' to be disconnected from the first packer 10. Such an embodiment is shown in Figure 11. A suitable coupling device 21 for this purpose is shown in Figure 1. Fig. 10 shown.

[0137] Fig. Figure 9 shows a packer system 100 with two channel inspection and / or maintenance units designed as packers.

[0138] The two packers 10, 10' are essentially designed as described with reference to Fig. 8 described. In contrast to the design according to Fig. 8 the two packers show 10, 10' at the in Fig. In the embodiment shown in Figure 9, a common housing 11 is formed, which also provides a common interior space 11c of the housing 11. The two bellows 13, 13' of the two packers are again arranged on the outer surface 12 of the housing 11, so that a pressure chamber 14, 14' is formed between each bellows and the outer surface 12. The two bellows 13, 13' are also arranged axially spaced apart from each other on the outer surface 12, so that in the inflated state of the bellows (when the bellows are pressed circumferentially against the inner wall of the channel), an ambient space 200 is created between the two packers or between the two bellows 13, 13', which is airtight in both directions of the channel.

[0139] The two pressure chambers 14, 14' are also pressurized by the compressed air generation unit 15, as described in relation to Fig. 8 explained.

[0140] Between the two bellows 13, 13', the housing 11 can have a radially projecting elevation, which is designed as a radially circumferential elevation 12c. This elevation 12c assumes the function of the flanges 12a, 12b for both bellows. Thus, the two bellows are bounded at the end sections 11a, 11b of the common housing 11 by the respective flanges 12a, 12b and between the two bellows by the radially circumferential elevation 12c. This prevents axial expansion of the bellows when they are inflated, even with a common housing 11.

[0141] The sensor unit 42 (e.g. a pressure sensor) and the compressed air opening 43 can be arranged here on / in or in the elevation 12c.

[0142] Even at the in Fig. In the embodiment shown in Figure 9, an image acquisition device 30 or other devices (e.g., milling cutters, drills, grippers, or the like) can be arranged in or on the housing 11 of the packer 10. If required, this can be coupled to the compressed air generation unit 15.

[0143] Fig. Figure 10 shows a coupling device 21 with which a channel inspection and / or maintenance unit (such as a packer 10) can be detachably coupled to a transport unit (such as a trolley 22).

[0144] The coupling device 21 is described below using a packer 10 as an example. However, other sewer inspection and / or maintenance units can also be coupled to a transport unit using the coupling device 21. A pusher eel can also be used as the transport unit.

[0145] The coupling device 21 has a first coupling unit 21a and a second coupling unit 21b. The first coupling unit 21a is arranged on the packer 10, the second coupling unit 21b is arranged on the carriage 22.

[0146] The first coupling unit 21a has a first coupling element 50a, and the second coupling unit 21b has a second coupling element 50b corresponding to the first coupling element 50a. The first coupling element 50a and the second coupling element 50b are designed such that they can be detachably connected to each other. "Corresponding" in this context means that they are designed and interact in such a way that the two coupling units 21a and 21b can be detachably connected to each other.

[0147] One embodiment of a specific coupling device 21 is described with reference to Fig. 20 and Fig. 22 described.

[0148] This allows the packer 10 to be attached to the carriage 22 by means of the coupling device 21. Inside the channel, the packer 10 can be detached from the carriage 22, for example, to remain in the channel while the carriage 22 is being retrieved. In one embodiment, the packer 10, which remained in the channel, can be reattached to the carriage 22 while still in the channel.

[0149] To ensure a secure coupling of the first coupling unit 21a to the second coupling unit 21b, it is provided that the first coupling unit 21a has a first alignment unit 51a and the second coupling unit 21b has a second alignment unit 51b corresponding to the first alignment unit 51a.

[0150] The two alignment units 51a, 51b are designed such that the first coupling unit 21a can be coupled to the second coupling unit 21b in an axial direction along a longitudinal axis LA of the coupling device 21 and in a predetermined orientation relative to the second coupling unit 21b. This means that when the two coupling units 21a, 21b are brought together, the first coupling unit 21a is aligned relative to the second coupling unit 21b in such a way that it can be coupled to the second coupling unit 21b.

[0151] The first alignment unit 51a and the second alignment unit 51b can be designed such that they can be engaged with each other, in particular in a form-fit manner. Such a design is shown in Fig. Figure 10 shows that the first alignment unit 51a is funnel-shaped and the second alignment unit 51b is correspondingly frustoconical. During the joining of the two coupling units, the first coupling unit 21a is adjusted radially relative to the second coupling unit 21b. Furthermore, the inclination of the first coupling unit 21a relative to the second coupling unit 21b is adjusted so that the longitudinal axes of the two coupling units are parallel to each other and coincide in the finally coupled state.

[0152] The first alignment unit 51a and the second alignment unit 51b can optionally also be designed such that, when the two coupling units are joined, the rotation angle of the first coupling unit 21a relative to the second coupling unit 21b is brought to a predetermined rotation angle. For this purpose, the alignment units 51a and 51b can, for example, have suitable guide elements.

[0153] At the in Fig. In the embodiment shown in Figure 10, the alignment units 51a and 51b are designed to be rotationally symmetrical. This means that the two coupling units can be coupled to each other independently of the rotation angle. In this case, it is advantageous if the first coupling element 50a and the second coupling element 50b are designed such that they can be detachably connected to each other regardless of the rotation angle.

[0154] In one embodiment, the first alignment unit 51a can be operationally coupled to a first interface 52a for signal and / or power transmission. Similarly, the second alignment unit 51b can also be operationally coupled to a second interface 52b for signal and / or power transmission.

[0155] In a special embodiment, the first alignment unit 51a can form the first interface 52a for signal and / or energy transmission, and the second alignment unit 51b can form the second interface 52b for signal and / or energy transmission.

[0156] For this purpose, corresponding contact surfaces can be provided in or on the alignment units, for example, electrically conductive rings arranged in concentric circles that reliably make contact when the two coupling units are coupled. The electrically conductive rings can be spring-mounted in at least one of the two alignment units, ensuring contact with the respective rings of the other alignment unit in any case. Designing the interfaces as electrically conductive rings arranged in concentric circles is advantageous when coupling the two coupling devices is to be possible regardless of the angle of rotation.

[0157] Data and electrical energy transmission between the two coupling units, independent of the rotation angle, can also be achieved on an inductive or capacitive basis.

[0158] If it is intended that the two coupling units can only be coupled to each other at a certain rotational angle, then the interfaces 52b, 52b for signal and / or energy transmission can also be designed in the form of a pin-sleeve connection.

[0159] In one embodiment, the first coupling unit 21a can have a first signal processing unit 53a and the second coupling unit 21b can have a second signal processing unit 53b, wherein the first signal processing unit 53a is operationally coupled to the first interface 52a and the second signal processing unit 53b is operationally coupled to the second interface 52b.

[0160] On the other hand, the first signal processing unit 53a can be operationally coupled with the packer 10 and the second signal processing unit 53b can be operationally coupled with the carriage 22.

[0161] If the coupling elements 50a and 50b are electrically or electromagnetically actuated or switchable, they can also be coupled to the signal processing unit of the respective coupling unit. The coupling and uncoupling can then be controlled by means of the signal processing unit.

[0162] In a particular embodiment of the coupling device 21, it may be provided that the two coupling units 21a, 21b also have a compressed air interface (in Fig. 10 not shown). Such a compressed air interface can be advantageous in several ways: - At the in Fig. In the embodiment of a channel inspection and / or maintenance system 1 shown in Figure 1, comprising a carriage 22 and a packer 10, the packer 10 can be coupled to the carriage 22 by means of the coupling device 21. The compressed air supplied by the compressed air generation unit 15 of the carriage 22 can be fed to the packer 10, i.e., to the pressure chamber 14 of the packer 10, via the compressed air interface provided in the coupling device 21. - At the in Fig. In the embodiment of a packer system 100 shown in Figure 8, the connecting unit 40 between the first housing 11 and the second housing 11' can be configured as a coupling device 21 with a compressed air interface. The compressed air provided by the compressed air generation unit 15 of the first packer 10 can be supplied to the second packer 10', i.e., to the pressure chamber 14' of the second packer 10', via the compressed air interface provided in the coupling device 21.

[0163] A coupling device 21, which incorporates a compressed air interface, allows a packer 10 to be coupled to the carriage 22, and another packer 10 can be coupled to the packer 10 coupled to the carriage 22 using such a coupling device 21. This allows, for example, the Fig. 4 implement the system shown, wherein the compressed air generation unit 15 can in this case be arranged in the carriage 22, as in Fig. 1 shown.

[0164] Fig. Figure 11 shows two channel inspection and / or maintenance units designed as packers, connected by a coupling device according to Fig. 10 can be solvably coupled together.

[0165] A first coupling unit 21a is arranged on the end face of the first packer 10 (on the side facing the second packer 10'). A second coupling unit 21b is also arranged on the end face of the second packer 10' (on the side facing the first packer 10). The two coupling units are configured as described with reference to Fig. 10 described. This allows the second packer 10' to be coupled and uncoupled from the first packer 10 (where in Fig. (Figure 11 shows the two packers in their uncoupled state). If, for example, the first packer 10 can be detachably coupled to a carriage 22, then both packers can be placed in the channel. The second packer 10' can then be uncoupled, and the carriage 22 can move away from the second packer 10' with the first packer 10. If the first packer 10 is a certain distance from the second packer 10', the first packer 10 can be uncoupled from the carriage 22, and the carriage 22 can be removed from the channel or used elsewhere.

[0166] The coupling unit 21a of the first packer 10 is connected to the control unit 18 of the first packer 10, while the coupling unit 21b of the second packer 10' is connected to the control unit 18' of the second packer 10'. Via the interfaces 52b, 52b for signal and / or power transmission between the two packers, control data can be transmitted from the first packer 10 (if, for example, it is mounted on a carriage 22) to the second packer 10'. Conversely, camera data, for example, can be transmitted from the second packer 10' to the first packer 10. Electrical power can also be transmitted from the first to the second packer.

[0167] The two in Fig. The 11 packers shown each have a compressed air generation unit 15, 15', one (in Fig. 11 (not shown) energy supply unit and a control unit 18. This allows both to be inflated independently of each other, i.e. the pressure chamber 14 of the first packer 10 can be pressurized with compressed air by the respective compressed air generation unit 15, 15' independently of the pressure chamber 14' of the second packer 10'.

[0168] Because the second packer 10' can be decoupled from the first packer 10, the ambient space 200 formed between the two packers (when both packers are inflated) can be adjusted by changing the distance between them. This is particularly advantageous when a leak in the duct can initially only be located very roughly. In this case, it is advisable to initially place the two packers a greater distance apart in the duct. The first packer 10 can then be successively moved towards the second packer 10' (of course, the air must be released from the first packer before this process, for example, using a release valve, as shown in [reference]). Fig. (as shown in Figure 2, which can be achieved), thereby reducing the distance between the two packers and thus also the space to be checked between the two packers. For the purpose of leakage measurement, the first packer 10 has a corresponding pressure sensor 42. For pressurizing the surrounding space 200, the first packer 10 can also have a compressed air opening 43, which is connected directly to the compressed air generation unit 15 or indirectly to the compressed air generation unit 15 via a valve unit 44.

[0169] Since the second packer 10' has its own compressed air generation unit 15', its own power supply unit, and its own control unit 18', it is possible to decouple the packer 10' and inflate it only after decoupling. This can be achieved, for example, by having the control unit 18' detect that packer 10' has been decoupled.

[0170] In the following described Fig. 12 to Fig. 14. Packers are each depicted in two figures, with figure (a) showing the packer in its uninflated state and figure (b) showing it inflated. The information in these Fig. 12 to Fig. The packers 10 shown in Figure 14 each have a housing on the outer surface of which the bellows 13 is arranged. The bellows is connected to the outer surface at both end sections in the region of the flanges 12a, 12b and is bounded by the two flanges 12a, 12b. Each packer 10 is coupled to a sliding eel 22, which serves as a transport unit. The coupling device described above with reference to Fig. The coupling device 21 described in section 10 is used. The packers each have a compressed air generation unit.

[0171] Fig. Figure 12 shows a specific embodiment of a packer 10 in a perspective view. The packer 10 here only includes the inflatable bellows and the modules required for pressurizing the pressure chamber (compressed air generation unit, optionally a power supply unit, and optionally a control unit), which are arranged inside the housing.

[0172] Fig. Figure 13 shows a specific embodiment of a packer in a perspective view with an axial camera mounted on it. The axial camera 30 is located at the free end of the packer 10. Data and power cables for the axial camera 30 can be routed from the pusher eel through the packer 10 to the axial camera 30. Alternatively, the power supply for the axial camera 30 can also be provided by a power supply unit located in the packer 10.

[0173] Fig. Figure 14 shows a specific embodiment of a packer in a perspective view with a milling tool 400 attached to it. The milling tool 400 is arranged at the free end of the packer 10. The milling tool 400 is preferably pivotable and rotatable about the longitudinal axis of the packer 10. If the milling tool 400 is operated with compressed air, the required compressed air can be supplied by the compressed air generation unit 15 of the packer 10.

[0174] A particular advantage of this design is that the inflated packer 10 provides particularly good stabilization of the milling tool 400 in the channel.

[0175] Fig. Figure 15 shows a specific embodiment of a packer in a perspective view with a pan-tilt camera 30 mounted on it. The design of the packer 10 corresponds to that described with reference to Fig. 12 to Fig. As described in Figure 14, the pan-tilt camera 30 is located at the free end of the packer 10. Data and power cables for the pan-tilt camera 30 can be routed from the pusher eel through the packer 10 to the pan-tilt camera 30. Alternatively, the pan-tilt camera 30 can also be powered by a power supply unit located within the packer 10. The pan-tilt camera 30 is designed to be swiveling and rotatable about the longitudinal axis of the packer 10.

[0176] In the following described Fig. 16 and Fig. 17. Packer systems 100 are each illustrated in two figures, with figure (a) showing the packer system 100 in the uninflated state and figure (b) in the inflated state. Each packer system 100 has two packers 10, 10' which are coupled to each other via a connecting unit 40, as shown in Fig. 8 shown. The ones in these Fig. 16 and Fig. The packers 10, 10' shown in Figure 17 each have a housing on the outer surface of which the respective bellows 13, 13' is arranged. Each packer 10 is coupled to a push rod 22, which serves as a transport unit. The coupling device between the push rod and the packer 10 can be the one described above with reference to Fig. The coupling device 21 described in section 10 can be used. Instead of the connecting unit 40, a coupling device 21 can also be provided, as shown in section 10. Fig. Figure 11 shows that each packer has a compressed air generation unit, whereby according to one embodiment only one of the two packers needs to have a compressed air generation unit and the other packer is supplied with compressed air by this compressed air generation unit.

[0177] Fig. Figure 16 shows a specific embodiment of a packer system 100 in a perspective view with an axial camera 30 attached to it. The axial camera 30 is located at the free end of the second packer 10'. Data and power cables for the axial camera 30 can be routed from the pusher eel through the two packers 10, 10' to the axial camera 30. Alternatively, the power supply for the axial camera 30 can also be provided by a power supply unit located in the packer system 100.

[0178] Fig. Figure 17 shows a specific embodiment of a packer system 100 in a perspective view with a milling tool attached to it. The milling tool 400 is arranged at the free end of the second packer 10'. The milling tool 400 is preferably pivotable and rotatable about the longitudinal axis of the packer system 100. If the milling tool 400 is operated with compressed air, the required compressed air can be supplied by the compressed air generation unit 15 of the packer system 100.

[0179] A particular advantage of this design is that the inflated packer system 100 allows for particularly good stabilization of the milling tool 400 in the channel.

[0180] Fig. Figure 18 shows a specific embodiment of a packer system 100 in a perspective view with a pan-tilt camera mounted on it. The design of the packer system 100 corresponds to that described with reference to Fig. 16 and Fig. As described in Figure 17, the pan-tilt camera 30 is located at the free end of the packer 10. Data and power cables for the pan-tilt camera 30 can be routed from the pusher eel through the packer system 100 to the pan-tilt camera 30. Alternatively, the pan-tilt camera 30 can also be powered by a power supply unit located within the packer system 100. The pan-tilt camera 30 is designed to be swiveling and rotatable about the longitudinal axis of the packer system 100.

[0181] Fig. Figure 19 shows a longitudinal section of a perspective view of a specific packer 10, with Figures (a) and (b) showing the housing 11 with the bellows 13 attached to it and an empty interior 11c. Figures (c) and (d) show the housing 11 with the bellows 13 attached to it and the compressed air generation unit 15 located in the interior 11c of the housing.

[0182] The housing 11 is designed here as a hollow cylinder, with radially circumferential flanges 12a, 12b visible at the two end sections, between which the bellows 13 is arranged on the outer surface of the housing shell 11d. For clarity, the end covers of the housing 11 are not shown here.

[0183] In Figures (a) and (c), the bellows 13 lies almost entirely against the outer surface of the housing shell 11d (in the uninflated state), so that the pressure chamber 14 has virtually no volume. In Figures (b) and (d), the bellows 13 is inflated, so that the pressure chamber 14, formed between the outer surface of the housing shell 11d and the bellows 13, is visible.

[0184] The housing shell has a through-hole 16 which connects the pressure chamber 14 with the interior 11c of the housing 11.

[0185] In the figure (c) and in the figure (d) the compressed air generation unit 15 (compressor) is arranged in the interior 11c of the housing 11 and is connected to the through-hole 16 via a compressed air line 15a in a pressure-tight manner.

[0186] Fig. Figure 20 shows a first coupling element 50a and a second coupling element 50b. These two coupling elements can also be used as a first coupling unit 21a and a second coupling unit 21b, respectively. Figure (a) shows the two coupling elements in the uncoupled state in a perspective longitudinal section and in a longitudinal section. Figure (b) shows the two coupling elements in the coupled state in a perspective longitudinal section and in a longitudinal section.

[0187] The first coupling element 50a has a substantially cylindrical housing that tapers conically at its free, i.e., front, end. This conical end forms a centering section 59 of the first coupling element 50a. The centering section 59 of the first coupling element 50a can, in particular, be designed as a truncated cone. A recess 63, preferably cylindrical, is provided in the housing of the first coupling element 50a, which tapers conically in the region of its front end.

[0188] In the conical area of ​​the recess 63, a radial through-hole is provided in the wall of the housing, which serves as a bolt guide 61. It is advantageous if at least two bolt guides 61 are provided, preferably offset by 180°.

[0189] Without taking into account the bolt guide 61, the entire housing is preferably designed to be rotationally symmetrical.

[0190] Each of the bolt guides 61 contains a bolt 55, which is radially movable or displaceable outwards and inwards. The bolt guides 61 and the bolts 55 arranged therein are designed such that the bolts 55 cannot fall out of the respective bolt guide 61, but can only be displaced radially within the respective bolt guide 61 until they reach a stop.

[0191] The bolts 55 are designed such that, when moved to their stop in the bolt guide 61, both ends of a bolt 55 protrude from the respective opening of the bolt guide 61. The length of the bolts 55 is selected such that, when the bolt 55 reaches its stop, it protrudes from the stop-side opening of the bolt guide 61, but does not protrude from the opposite opening of the bolt guide 61. The radially inner end of the bolt 55 may be hemispherical.

[0192] Each bolt 55 is associated with a spring element 56, which exerts a spring force on the bolt 55. The spring force of the spring element 56 acts on the bolt 55 in such a way that the bolt 55 is pressed or moved radially inwards within the bolt guide 61. In one embodiment, the spring element 56 is arranged within the bolt guide 61.

[0193] A drive element 58 is received in the recess 63 of the housing of the first coupling element 50a. The drive element 58 is operationally coupled to an actuating element 57. The actuating element 57 is designed to move or displace the bolts 55 radially outwards. In the Fig. In the embodiment shown in Figure 20, the actuating element is designed as an axially displaceable spreading cone 57, which tapers towards the front end of the coupling element 50a. Alternatively, the front end of the spreading cone 57 can also be wedge-shaped. A rear section of the spreading cone 57 can be cylindrical. The spreading cone 57 is moved axially forward or backward by the drive element 58.

[0194] The drive element 58 can be a linear actuator, a solenoid, or a pneumatic device. The only important requirement is that the drive element 58 is designed to axially displace the spreading cone 57 in both directions.

[0195] In Fig. Figure 20 shows the spreading cones 57 in two parts, with each part of the spreading cone 57 being able to be moved independently of each other with the drive element 58.

[0196] However, it is advantageous if the spreading cone 57 is designed in one piece.

[0197] The expanding cone 57 and the bolts 55 are arranged in the housing or in the bolt guides 61 such that the longitudinal axes of the bolts 55 are perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the expanding cone 57.

[0198] The spreading cone 57 is in a passive position when it is positioned at the rear in the recess 63 (such a position is assumed in Fig. 20 the lower part of the spreading cone 57). The spreading cone 57 is in an active position when it is positioned at the front in the recess 63 (such a position is assumed in Fig. 20 the upper part of the spreading cone 57).

[0199] When the expanding cone 57 is in the passive position, the two bolts 55 are pressed radially inwards by the spring force of the spring element 56, so that the radially inner end sections of the bolts 55 protrude into the recess 63. The radially outer end sections of the bolts 55 do not protrude from the recesses 63 (such a position of the bolts is not possible in the following context). Fig. 20 the lower bolt).

[0200] When the expanding cone 57 is moved from the passive position to the active position, the front, conical section of the expanding cone 57 slides between the inner end sections of the bolts 55. This pushes the bolts 55 radially outwards against the spring force of the spring element 56, so that the bolts protrude from the radially outer opening of the bolt guide 61 (such a position of the bolts occurs in Fig. 20 the upper bolt).

[0201] When the spreading cone 57 is moved from the active position to the passive position, the bolts 55 are pushed radially inwards again by the spring force of the spring element 56.

[0202] The second coupling element 50b has a housing which has a receiving opening 62 into which the first coupling element 50a can be engaged.

[0203] A radially circumferential cam 60 is formed on the inner wall of the receiving opening 62. The width of the cam 60 corresponds essentially to the diameter of the bolts 55.

[0204] The receiving opening 62 is designed such that the first coupling element 50a can be inserted into the receiving opening 62. The diameter of the area of ​​the receiving opening 62, in which the cam 60 is provided, corresponds essentially to the outer diameter of the housing of the first coupling element 50a in the area in which the bolt guides 61 are provided.

[0205] The receiving opening 62 and the first coupling element 50a are also designed such that the first coupling element 50a can be inserted into the receiving opening 62 at least far enough that the bolt guide 61 and the cam 60 are opposite each other. This position of the first coupling element 50a relative to the second coupling element 50b is shown in Figure (b) of the Fig. 20 shown.

[0206] An internal end section of the receiving opening 62 is designed as a centering section 59a, which corresponds to the centering section 59 of the first coupling element 50a. These two centering sections serve to center and align the two coupling elements when they are brought together. Once the first coupling element 50a is fully inserted into the receiving opening 62, the centering section 59 of the first coupling element 50a rests against the centering section 59a of the second coupling element 50b. In this position, the bolt guide 61 and the cam 60 are opposite each other, as shown in Figure (b).

[0207] As soon as the bolt guide 61 and the cam 60 are opposite each other when the first coupling element 50a is inserted into the second coupling element 50b, the expanding cone 57 can be moved from the passive position to the active position. The bolts 55 are then moved radially outwards and engage in the surrounding cam. The two coupling elements are now coupled. To decouple the two coupling elements, the expanding cone 57 is moved axially backwards again. The two bolts 55 are then moved radially inwards again by the spring force of the spring element 56.

[0208] The receiving opening 62 can be rotationally symmetrical. If the outer wall of the housing of the first coupling element 50a is also rotationally symmetrical, then the first coupling element 50a can be inserted into the receiving opening 62 of the second coupling element 50b at any angle relative to the second coupling element 50b.

[0209] Fig. 21 shows the in Fig. Figure 20 shows coupling elements for connecting a packer 10 to a carriage 22. Here, the two coupling elements are used as the first coupling unit 21a and the second coupling unit 21b. The first coupling unit 21a is located on one end face of the carriage 22. The second coupling unit 21b is located on one end face of the packer 10. The second coupling unit 21b of the packer 10 can be slid onto the first coupling unit 21a of the carriage 22. After sliding it on, the two bolts 55 are moved radially outwards with the aid of the expanding cone 57, so that they engage in the catch of the second coupling unit 21b. The packer 10 is now coupled to the carriage 22.

[0210] Fig. Figure 22 shows the coupling device 21 according to Fig. 10 with the in Fig. 20 coupling elements shown.

[0211] Two coupling elements 50a are arranged on the first coupling unit 21a, which are arranged as with reference to Fig. 20 are described and designed.

[0212] The second coupling unit 21b has a coupling element 50b, the receiving opening 62 of which is arranged radially around the second coupling unit 21b (rotationally symmetrical with respect to the longitudinal axis LA of the second coupling unit 21b). This allows the first coupling unit 21a to be coupled to the second coupling unit 21b regardless of the angle of rotation relative to the second coupling unit 21b.

[0213] The ones relating to Fig. 20 and Fig. The coupling device shown in Figure 21 can be used with the systems shown in the other figures to couple two modules (e.g. carriage 22 and packer 10, or two packers 10).

[0214] In addition to the configurations described above, further configurations are provided and described below, whereby the features mentioned below can be combined with the features mentioned above.

[0215] Furthermore, a comprehensive sewer inspection and / or maintenance system will be provided. - a transport unit that can be placed in a channel and moved and / or shifted within the channel, - a compressed air generation unit for generating and supplying compressed air, and - at least one piece of equipment wherein the compressed air generation unit is arranged in or on the transport unit and wherein the compressed air generation unit is coupled to the at least one piece of equipment via a compressed air line.

[0216] The advantage here is that no external compressed air unit is required to supply compressed air to the operating medium. This eliminates the need for compressed air hoses that have to be pulled from the transport unit into the duct.

[0217] The transport unit may have a control unit that is coupled to and adapted with the compressed air generation unit to control the compressed air generation unit.

[0218] It is advantageous if the transport unit has a power supply unit to provide electrical energy for the compressed air generation unit.

[0219] The power supply unit may include a battery and / or a capacitor.

[0220] The control unit can be coupled or coupled to a control device located outside the transport unit via a wired or wireless communication link.

[0221] The equipment can include a packer or a milling cutter.

[0222] It can be advantageous if the packer includes a housing, whereby - the housing is designed as a hollow cylinder, with two end sections, an interior and a housing shell, - a radially inflatable bellows is arranged on the outer surface of the housing, wherein the bellows is airtightly attached to the housing in the area of ​​the two end sections of the housing, so that a pressure chamber is formed between the outer surface of the housing and the bellows, and - the compressed air generation unit is operationally coupled to the pressure chamber and is adapted to pressurize the pressure chamber, wherein a through-hole is formed in the housing shell that connects the interior of the housing to the pressure chamber and wherein the compressed air generation unit is connected to the through-hole in a pressure-tight manner on the interior side.

[0223] This results in a particularly stable packer, as the inflatable bellows is attached to the housing's outer shell. The bellows itself does not need to be exceptionally robust, allowing for a wider range of materials and material combinations to be used.

[0224] The compressed air generation unit can be connected to the through-hole via the compressed air line.

[0225] The transport unit can be a trolley or a push trailer.

[0226] Furthermore, a packer for a sewer inspection and / or maintenance system was provided, comprehensive - a housing designed as a hollow cylinder, with two end sections, an interior and a housing shell, and - a radially inflatable bellows arranged on the outer surface of the housing, wherein the bellows is airtightly attached to the housing in the area of ​​the two end sections of the housing, so that a pressure chamber is formed between the outer surface of the housing and the bellows, which can be pressurized.

[0227] It is advantageous if a through-hole is formed in the housing shell, connecting the interior of the housing to the pressure chamber, whereby the pressure chamber can be pressurized via the through-hole.

[0228] The packer can include a compressed air generation unit with which the pressure chamber can be pressurized, the compressed air generation unit being pressure-tight and connected to the through-hole.

[0229] It is advantageous if the compressed air generation unit is connected to the through-hole via a compressed air line.

[0230] The compressed air generation unit can be located inside the housing.

[0231] The packer may include a power supply unit to provide electrical power to the compressed air generation unit.

[0232] The power supply unit may include a battery located inside the housing.

[0233] The packer may include a control unit that is coupled to and adapted for controlling the compressed air generation unit.

[0234] The control unit can be located inside the housing and coupled to the power supply unit, with the control unit being supplied with electrical energy by the power supply unit.

[0235] The compressed air generation unit and / or the power supply unit and / or the control unit can be arranged in a fluid- and / or gas-tight manner inside the housing.

[0236] The control unit can be coupled or coupled to a control device located outside the packer via a wired or wireless communication link.

[0237] The packer can have a first coupling unit of a coupling device with which the packer can be detachably attached to a transport unit.

[0238] The housing and / or bellows may have a drain valve through which overpressure in the pressure chamber can be reduced.

[0239] The drain valve can be controlled by the control unit.

[0240] The packer can have a pressure sensor with which the pressure in the pressure chamber can be detected.

[0241] Furthermore, a packer for a sewer inspection and / or maintenance system is provided, the packer comprising - a housing designed as a hollow cylinder, with two end sections, an interior and a housing shell, - a radially inflatable bellows arranged on the outer surface of the housing, wherein the bellows is airtightly attached to the housing in the area of ​​the two end sections of the housing, so that a pressure chamber is formed between the outer surface of the housing and the bellows, and - a compressed air generation unit that is operationally coupled to the pressure chamber and adapted to pressurize the pressure chamber, wherein a through-hole is formed in the housing shell that connects the interior of the housing to the pressure chamber and wherein the compressed air generation unit is connected to the through-hole in a pressure-tight manner on the inside side, so that the pressure chamber can be pressurized via the through-hole with the compressed air generation unit.

[0242] This results in a particularly stable packer, as the inflatable bellows is attached to the housing's outer shell. The bellows itself does not need to be exceptionally robust, allowing for a wider range of materials and material combinations to be used.

[0243] The compressed air generation unit can be located inside the housing and connected to the through-hole via a compressed air line. This provides a compact packer with its own integrated compressed air generation unit. External compressed air generation units (compressors) are therefore unnecessary. Another advantage is that no compressed air hoses are required in the duct that would otherwise need to run to the packer. A trolley (or pusher) no longer needs to drag compressed air hoses behind it, allowing for a more compact trolley design and reduced energy consumption.

[0244] It can be advantageous if the packer includes a power supply unit to provide electrical energy for the compressed air generation unit. This eliminates the need for an external power supply unit, meaning that no power cables need to be run into the duct for the operation of the packer.

[0245] The power supply unit may include a battery and / or a capacitor located inside the housing.

[0246] It can be advantageous if the packer includes a control unit that is coupled to and adapted for controlling the compressed air generation unit. This allows the packer to operate completely autonomously. This means that the packer can be operated in the duct without any additional equipment or devices. The packer simply needs to be moved to the desired location in the duct.

[0247] The control unit can be located inside the housing and coupled to the power supply unit, with the control unit being supplied with electrical energy by the power supply unit.

[0248] It is advantageous if the compressed air generation unit and / or the power supply unit and / or the control unit are arranged inside the housing in a fluid- and / or gas-tight manner. This allows the packer to be used even in damp or water-bearing ducts.

[0249] It can be advantageous if the control unit is coupled, or can be coupled, to a control device located outside the packer via a wired or wireless communication link. This allows the packer to be controlled, for example, outside the channel.

[0250] It can be advantageous if the packer has a first coupling unit of a coupling device, allowing the packer to be detachably attached to a transport unit. This allows the packer, for example, to be moved to the desired location in the sewer using a trolley and then detached from the trolley. The trolley is then available for other tasks.

[0251] In one embodiment of the invention, the housing and / or the bellows can have a drain valve through which overpressure in the pressure chamber can be reduced.

[0252] The drain valve can be controlled by the control unit.

[0253] It is advantageous if the packer has a pressure sensor with which the pressure in the printing chamber can be detected.

[0254] It can also be advantageous if the packer has a sensor module that can detect environmental conditions (e.g., ambient pressure).

[0255] The bellows can be designed in the form of a flexible mat.

[0256] Furthermore, a packer for a canal inspection and / or maintenance system is provided, comprising a housing on which a radially inflatable bellows forming a pressure chamber is arranged, the housing having an end face and an image acquisition device being arranged on the end face.

[0257] This allows the packer to be visually inspected even while being inserted into a pipe, for example, to locate the point in the pipe where the packer is to be used. No additional camera unit is required that would have to be lowered into the pipe via an adjacent manhole. Another advantage is that the camera is fixed in place in the pipe once the packer is fully inflated.

[0258] It can be advantageous if the image capture device - is detachably attached to the front of the housing via a fastening device, or - is integrated into the housing at the front of the housing.

[0259] When integrating the image acquisition device into the housing of the packer, it can also be advantageous if the image acquisition device is detachably integrated into the housing.

[0260] The detachable fastening or integration of the image acquisition device has the advantage that the image acquisition device can be easily replaced, for example for revision purposes or the like, or one image acquisition device can be replaced by another image acquisition device.

[0261] In one embodiment, the housing can be designed as a hollow cylinder with two end sections, an interior, and a housing shell, wherein the radially inflatable bellows is arranged on the shell surface of the housing and wherein the bellows is airtightly attached to the housing in the area of ​​the two end sections of the housing, so that the pressure chamber is formed between the shell surface of the housing and the bellows.

[0262] This results in a particularly stable packer, as the inflatable bellows is attached to the housing's outer shell. The bellows itself does not need to be exceptionally robust, allowing for a wider range of materials and material combinations to be used.

[0263] The image acquisition device can be located at the front of the housing, at least partially inside the housing.

[0264] It can be advantageous if the packer also includes a compressed air generation unit, wherein the compressed air generation unit is operationally coupled to the pressure chamber and is adapted to pressurize the pressure chamber.

[0265] A through-hole can be formed in the housing shell, connecting the interior of the housing to the pressure chamber, with the compressed air generation unit being pressure-tightly connected to the through-hole on the interior side, so that the pressure chamber can be pressurized via the through-hole by means of the compressed air generation unit.

[0266] Preferably, the compressed air generation unit can be arranged inside the housing and connected to the through-hole via a compressed air line.

[0267] This provides a compact packer with its own integrated compressed air generation unit. External compressed air generation units (compressors) are therefore unnecessary. A further advantage is that no compressed air hoses are required in the duct that would otherwise need to run to the packer. A conveyor (or pusher) no longer needs to drag compressed air hoses behind it, allowing for a more compact design and reduced energy consumption.

[0268] It can also be advantageous if the packer includes a power supply unit to provide electrical energy for the compressed air generation unit. This eliminates the need for an external power supply unit, meaning that no power cables need to be run into the duct for the operation of the packer.

[0269] The power supply unit may include a battery (or a capacitor) located inside the housing.

[0270] It can be advantageous if the packer includes a control unit that is coupled to and adapted for controlling the compressed air generation unit. This allows the packer to operate completely autonomously. This means that the packer can be operated in the duct without any additional equipment or devices. The packer simply needs to be moved to the desired location in the duct.

[0271] The control unit can be located inside the housing and coupled to the power supply unit, with the control unit being supplied with electrical energy by the power supply unit.

[0272] It can also be advantageous if the compressed air generation unit and / or the power supply unit and / or the control unit are arranged in a fluid- and / or gas-tight manner inside the housing. This allows the packer to be used even in damp or water-bearing ducts.

[0273] The control unit must be or be connectable to a control device located outside the packer via a wired or wireless communication link. This allows the packer to be controlled, for example, outside the channel.

[0274] In one embodiment of the invention, the image acquisition device can be coupled with the control unit, wherein the image acquisition device is coupled or can be coupled to the control device arranged outside the packer via the wired or wireless communication link.

[0275] It is advantageous if the packer has a first coupling unit of a coupling device with which the packer can be detachably attached to a transport unit.

[0276] This allows the packer, for example, to be transported to the desired location in the canal using a trolley and then detached from the trolley. The trolley is then available for other tasks.

[0277] The housing and / or bellows may have a drain valve through which overpressure in the pressure chamber can be reduced.

[0278] The drain valve can be controlled by the control unit.

[0279] The packer can have a pressure sensor with which the pressure in the pressure chamber can be detected.

[0280] Furthermore, a packer system for a sewer inspection and / or maintenance system is provided, comprising a first packer and a second packer, wherein - the first packer comprises a first housing with a first shell surface, wherein a first radially inflatable bellows is arranged on the first shell surface, and wherein a first pressure chamber is formed between the first shell surface and the first bellows, and - the second packer comprises a second housing with a second shell surface, wherein a second radially inflatable bellows is arranged on the second shell surface, and wherein a second pressure chamber is formed between the second shell surface and the second bellows.

[0281] The housings are robustly designed. Because the housings are robustly designed, the packers are also particularly robust. This is because the inflatable bellows is attached to the housing shell. The bellows itself does not need to be robust in this respect, allowing for a wider range of materials and material combinations to be used for the bellows.

[0282] The packer system may further include a compressed air generation unit, wherein the compressed air generation unit is operationally coupled to the first pressure chamber and to the second pressure chamber and is adapted to pressurize the first pressure chamber and the second pressure chamber.

[0283] The compressed air generation unit can be adapted to pressurize the first pressure chamber and the second pressure chamber independently of each other.

[0284] It is advantageous if the first housing is designed as a hollow cylinder with a first interior space and a first housing shell having the first outer surface, wherein the compressed air generation unit is arranged in the first interior space of the first housing.

[0285] This provides a compact packer system with its own integrated compressed air generation unit. External compressed air generation units (compressors) are therefore unnecessary. A further advantage is that no compressed air hoses are required in the ductwork that would otherwise need to be routed to the packer system. A trolley (or pusher) no longer needs to drag compressed air hoses behind it, allowing for a more compact trolley design and reduced energy consumption.

[0286] In the first housing shell, a first through-hole can be formed that connects the first interior space of the first housing with the first pressure chamber, wherein the compressed air generation unit is connected to the first through-hole in a pressure-tight manner on the interior side, preferably via a first compressed air line, so that the first pressure chamber can be pressurized via the first through-hole with the compressed air generation unit.

[0287] It is advantageous if the compressed air generation unit is operationally coupled to the second pressure chamber via a second compressed air line. This means that only a single compressed air generation unit needs to be provided for both packs.

[0288] The second housing can be designed as a hollow cylinder with a second interior space and a second housing shell having the second outer surface, wherein a second through-hole is formed in the second housing shell, which connects the second interior space of the second housing to the second pressure chamber, wherein the second compressed air line is connected to the second through-hole in a pressure-tight manner.

[0289] Packer system according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the first housing is coupled to the second housing in the axial direction via a connecting unit, preferably detachably. This allows the area between the two packers to be increased by decoupling the second packer from the first packer and thus increasing the distance between the first and second packers.

[0290] The connecting unit may contain a compressed air channel that forms a section of the second compressed air line.

[0291] In one embodiment of the invention, the first housing and the second housing can be formed in one piece and together form a one-piece packer housing, wherein the first inflatable bellows and the second inflatable bellows are arranged axially spaced apart from each other on the lateral surface formed by the one-piece packer housing.

[0292] It is advantageous to have a sensor unit positioned between the first and second bellows. This allows the packer system to perform pressure measurements between the two packers.

[0293] The sensor unit can include a pressure sensor, with the sensor unit being located on the first housing or on the second housing.

[0294] The packer system may also include a power supply unit to provide electrical energy for the compressed air generation unit.

[0295] The power supply unit may include a battery (or a capacitor) located in the first interior space of the first housing.

[0296] The packer system can include a control unit that is coupled to and adapted for controlling the compressed air generation unit. This allows the packer to operate completely autonomously. This means that the packer can be operated in the duct without any additional equipment or devices. The packer simply needs to be moved to the desired location in the duct.

[0297] The control unit can be located in the first interior space of the first housing and coupled to the power supply unit, with the control unit being supplied with electrical energy by the power supply unit.

[0298] The compressed air generation unit and / or the power supply unit and / or the control unit can be arranged in a fluid- and / or gas-tight manner within the first interior space of the first housing. This allows the packer to be used even in damp or water-bearing ducts.

[0299] The control unit can be coupled, or capable of being coupled, to a control device located outside the packer system via a wired or wireless communication link. This allows the packer to be controlled, for example, from outside the channel.

[0300] The packer system can include a first coupling unit of a coupling device, with which the packer system can be detachably attached to a transport unit. This allows the packer system, for example, to be moved to the desired location in the sewer using a trolley and then detached from the trolley. The trolley is then available for other tasks.

[0301] The first housing and / or the second housing and / or the first bellows and / or the second bellows may have a drain valve through which overpressure in the first pressure chamber and / or in the second pressure chamber can be reduced.

[0302] The drain valve can be controlled by the control unit.

[0303] A compressed air opening can be provided between the first packer and the second packer, through which the environment of the packer system, in particular the area between the first bellows and the second bellows, can be pressurized.

[0304] The compressed air opening can be operationally coupled to the compressed air generation unit.

[0305] Finally, a coupling device of a sewer inspection and / or maintenance system is provided for detachably coupling a sewer inspection and / or maintenance unit of the sewer inspection and / or maintenance system to a transport unit of the sewer inspection and / or maintenance system, wherein a first coupling unit of the coupling device is arranged on the sewer inspection and / or maintenance unit and wherein a second coupling unit of the coupling device is arranged on the transport unit, wherein - the first coupling unit has a first coupling element and the second coupling unit has a second coupling element corresponding to the first coupling element, wherein the first coupling element and the second coupling element are designed in such a way that they can be detachably connected to each other, and - the first coupling unit has a first alignment unit and the second coupling unit has a second alignment unit corresponding to the first alignment unit, wherein the alignment units are designed such that the first coupling unit can be coupled to the second coupling unit in an axial direction along a longitudinal axis of the coupling device and in a predetermined orientation relative to the second coupling unit.

[0306] This allows the channel inspection and / or maintenance unit to be safely (due to the two alignment units) and easily attached to and detached from a transport unit.

[0307] The first alignment unit and the second alignment unit can be brought into engagement with each other, in particular, they can be brought into engagement with each other in a form-fitting manner.

[0308] The first alignment unit and the second alignment unit can be arranged in the longitudinal axis of the coupling device.

[0309] It is advantageous if the first alignment unit and the second alignment unit are designed to be rotationally symmetrical.

[0310] It can be advantageous if - the first alignment unit is operationally coupled with a first interface for signal and / or energy transmission, and - the second alignment unit is operationally coupled with a second interface for signal and / or energy transmission.

[0311] Furthermore, it can be advantageous if - the first alignment unit forms a first interface for signal and / or energy transmission, and - the second alignment unit forms a second interface for signal and / or energy transmission.

[0312] It has proven advantageous if - the first coupling unit, a first signal processing unit and - the second coupling unit has a second signal processing unit, wherein - the first signal processing unit operational with the first interface, and - the second signal processing unit is operationally coupled with the second interface, and wherein - the first signal processing unit operationally with the channel inspection and / or maintenance unit, and - the second signal processing unit can be operationally coupled with the transport unit.

[0313] Furthermore, it can be advantageous if - the first signal processing unit operationally with the first coupling element, and - the second signal processing unit is operationally coupled to the second coupling element.

[0314] The first coupling element and / or the second coupling element can be designed to be rotationally symmetrical about the longitudinal axis. Reference symbol: 1. Channel inspection and / or maintenance system 10, 10' Canal inspection and / or maintenance unit, e.g. a packer or a trolley 11, 11' hollow cylindrical housing of the packer 10 11a, 11b End sections of the housing 11 11c, 11c' Interior of the housing 11 11d, 11d' casing of the housing 11 or housing casing 11e Front side of the housing 11 12, 12' Surface area of ​​the casing 11, 11' 12a, 12b Flanges at the end sections 11a, 11b of the housing Housing 11 12c radial circumferential elevation 13, 13' Bellows on the outer surface 12, 12' of the casing 11, 11' 14, 14' Pressure space between the outer surface 12, 12' of the housing 11, 11' and the bellows 13, 13' 15, 15' Compressed air generation unit, compressor 15a, 15a' Compressed air line 16, 16' Through hole in the housing shell 11d of the housing 11 17 Power supply unit, e.g. battery 18, 18' control unit 19 Control device 20 Communication link 21 Coupling device 21a first coupling unit 21b second coupling unit 22 Transport unit, e.g. push eel or trolley 23 Drain valve 24 pressure sensor 25a, 25b Clamping rings 30 Image recording device, e.g. video camera / inspection camera 31 Fastening means for attaching, preferably detachably, the image recording device 30 40 Connecting unit between the first housing 11 and the second housing 11' 41 Compressed air channel in the connection unit 40 42 Sensor unit 43 Compressed air opening 44, 44' Valve system 50a, 50b first and second coupling element 51a, 51b first and second alignment unit 52a, 52b first and second interface for signal and / or power transmission 53a, 53b Signal processing unit 55 bolts (radially movable in the first coupling element 50a) 56 spring element 57 Actuating element, e.g. axially displaceable spreading cone 58 Drive element 59 Centering section of the first coupling element 50a 59a Centering section of the second coupling element 50b 60 backdrop 61 Bolt guide in the first coupling element 50a 62 Intake opening 63 Recess in the housing of the first coupling element 50a 100 Packer system 150 operating supplies, e.g. cleaning nozzle, packer 200 Environment of the packer system 300 channel 400 milling tools

Claims

[1] Packer system (100) for a sewer inspection and / or maintenance system (1), comprising a first packer (10) and a second packer (10'), wherein - the first packer (10) comprises a first housing (11) with a first shell surface (12), wherein a first radially inflatable bellows (13) is arranged on the first shell surface (12), and wherein a first pressure chamber (14) is formed between the first shell surface (12) and the first bellows (13), and - the second packer (10') comprises a second housing (11') with a second shell surface (12'), wherein a second radially inflatable bellows (13') is arranged on the second shell surface (12'), and wherein a second pressure chamber (14') is formed between the second shell surface (12') and the second bellows (13'). [2] Packer system according to the preceding claim, further comprising a compressed air generation unit (15), wherein the compressed air generation unit (15) is operationally coupled to the first pressure chamber (14) and to the second pressure chamber (14') and is adapted to pressurize the first pressure chamber (14) and the second pressure chamber (14'). [3] Packer system according to the preceding claim, wherein the compressed air generation unit (15) is adapted to pressurize the first pressure chamber (14) and the second pressure chamber (14') independently of each other. [4] Packer system according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the first housing (11) is designed as a hollow cylinder with a first interior space (11c) and a first housing shell (11d) having the first outer surface (12), wherein the compressed air generation unit (15) is arranged in the first interior space (11c) of the first housing (11). [5] Packer system according to the preceding claim, wherein a first through-hole (16) is formed in the first housing shell (11d) which connects the first interior space (11c) of the first housing (11) to the first pressure chamber (14) and wherein the compressed air generation unit (15) is connected to the first through-hole (16) on the interior side in a pressure-tight manner, preferably via a first compressed air line (15a), so that the first pressure chamber (14) can be pressurized via the first through-hole (16) with the compressed air generation unit (15). [6] Packer system according to one of claims 2 to 5, wherein the compressed air generation unit (15) is operationally coupled to the second pressure chamber (14') via a second compressed air line (15a'). [7] Packer system according to the preceding claim, wherein the second housing (11') is designed as a hollow cylinder with a second interior space (11c') and a second housing shell (11d') having the second outer surface (12'), wherein a second through-hole (16') is formed in the second housing shell (11d') which connects the second interior space (11c') of the second housing (11') to the second pressure chamber (14'), wherein the second compressed air line (15a') is connected pressure-tight to the second through-hole (16'). [8] Packer system according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the first housing (11) is coupled to the second housing (11') in an axial direction via a connecting unit (40), preferably detachably. [9] Packer system according to the preceding claim, wherein a compressed air channel (41) is formed in the connecting unit (40) which forms a section of the second compressed air line (15a'). [10] Packer system according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the first housing (11) and the second housing (11') are formed in one piece and together form a one-piece packer housing, wherein the first inflatable bellows (13) and the second inflatable bellows (13') are arranged axially spaced apart from each other on the lateral surface formed by the one-piece packer housing. [11] Packer system according to one of the preceding claims, wherein a sensor unit (42) is arranged between the first bellows (13) and the second bellows (13'). [12] Packer system according to the preceding claim, wherein the sensor unit (42) comprises a pressure sensor, and wherein the sensor unit (42) is arranged on the first housing (11) or on the second housing (11'). [13] Packer system according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the latter further comprises a power supply unit (17) for providing electrical energy to the compressed air generation unit (15). [14] Packer system according to the preceding claim, wherein the power supply unit (17) comprises an accumulator arranged in the first interior space (11c) of the first housing (11). [15] Packer system according to any one of the preceding claims 2 to 13, wherein the latter comprises a control unit (18) coupled to and adapted to the compressed air generation unit (15) to control the compressed air generation unit (15). [16] Packer system according to the preceding claim, wherein the control unit (18) is arranged in the first interior space (11c) of the first housing (11) and is coupled to the power supply unit (17), wherein the control unit (18) is supplied with electrical energy by the power supply unit (17). [17] Packer system according to any one of the preceding claims 2 to 15, wherein the compressed air generation unit (15) and / or the power supply unit (17) and / or the control unit (18) are arranged in a fluid- and / or gas-tight manner in the first interior space (11c) of the first housing (11). [18] Packer system according to any one of the preceding claims 14 to 16, wherein the control unit is coupled or can be coupled via a wired or wireless communication link (20) to a control device (19) arranged outside the packer system. [19] Packer system according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the latter has a first coupling unit (21a) of a coupling device (21) with which the packer system can be detachably attached to a transport unit (22). [20] Packer system according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the first housing (11) and / or the second housing (11') and / or the first bellows (13) and / or the second bellows (13') has a drain valve (23) via which an overpressure in the first pressure chamber (14) and / or in the second pressure chamber (14') can be reduced. [21] Packer system according to the preceding claim, wherein the drain valve (23) is controllable with the control unit (18). [22] Packer system according to one of the preceding claims, wherein a compressed air opening (43) is provided between the first packer (10) and the second packer (10'), through which the environment (200) of the packer system, in particular the environment between the first bellows (13) and the second bellows (13'), can be pressurized. [23] Packer system according to the preceding claim, wherein the compressed air opening (43) is operationally coupled to the compressed air generation unit (15).