In-pipe inspection device, inspection assembly, and inspection section support structure

Abstract

To more reliably inspect the inside of a pipe at lower cost.SOLUTION: The present invention relates to an in-pipe inspection device that inspects the inside of a pipe through which fluid flows. The in-pipe inspection device of the present invention comprises: an inspection unit including at least a camera that photographs the inside of the pipe; an inspection unit support structure including an inspection unit support part that supports the inspection unit; a storage capsule having a cylindrical storage part for storing the inspection unit support structure and moving along with the flow of the fluid in the pipe. The inspection unit has a camera support part that supports the camera, a lighting unit that lights the surroundings, and a connection part connected to the inspection unit support structure. The inspection unit support structure has a base part placed on the bottom part of the storage part, and an inspection unit support part that is connected to the connection part of the inspection unit on the base part to support the inspection unit.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present invention relates to an internal pipe inspection device, an inspection and assembly Body and examination Investigation department support structure Construction The present invention can be applied to, for example, inspection of the inside of pipes such as sewer pipes buried underground. [Background technology]

[0002] 2. Description of the Related Art Conventionally, there exists an inspection device (hereinafter referred to as an "in-pipe inspection device") that inspects pipes such as sewer pipes and gas pipes buried underground by using an inspection device such as a camera while moving inside the pipes.

[0003] Patent Document 1 discloses a conventional inside-pipe inspection device.

[0004] The pipe inside inspection device described in Patent Document 1 is structured to move inside the pipe using a moving mechanism that uses wheels that come into contact with the inner surface of the pipe. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0005] [Patent Document 1] JP 2018-40577 A Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0006] However, when using an internal pipe inspection device using a moving mechanism that comes into contact with the inner surface of a pipe as in Patent Document 1, it may be difficult to use depending on the environment inside the pipe to be inspected.

[0007] For example, since wastewater and sludge exist inside sewer pipes, contamination of the pipe inspection device is unavoidable, and it is necessary to clean the dirt when recovering the pipe inspection device after use. As described above, the inside of a sewer pipe is a harsh environment for machinery, and maintaining a high level of waterproofing is very costly. Furthermore, as described above, not only wastewater but also sludge may exist inside a sewer pipe, and the inner surface of the pipe may be corroded, so that a mechanism using wheels, such as the pipe inspection device described in Patent Document 1, may have difficulty moving inside the pipe, and may even damage the inner surface of the pipe.

[0008] In view of the above problems, a pipe inspection device and an inspection assembly capable of inspecting the inside of a pipe more reliably at a lower cost are provided. Body and examination Investigation department support structure Construction is desired. [Means for solving the problem]

[0009] A first aspect of the present invention is an internal pipe inspection device for inspecting the inside of a pipe through which a fluid flows, comprising: (1) an inspection unit support structure including an inspection unit including at least a camera for photographing the inside of the pipe and an inspection unit support part for supporting the inspection unit; (2) a containment capsule having a cylindrical container for accommodating the inspection unit support structure and moving with the flow of the fluid within the pipe; (3) the inspection unit has a camera support part for supporting the camera, a lighting part for illuminating the surroundings, and a connecting part for connecting to the inspection unit support structure; (4) the inspection unit support structure has a base part placed on the bottom of the container, and an inspection unit support part for supporting the inspection unit by connecting to the connecting part of the inspection unit on the base part; (5) The shape of the bottom of the base portion is a curved shape that contacts the inner surface of the storage portion of the storage capsule, (6) The base portion is not fixed to an inner surface of the containing capsule when the base portion is contained in the containing capsule. It is characterized by:

[0010] The second aspect of the present invention is an inspection unit support structure that supports an inspection unit including a camera that photographs at least the inside of a pipe in a containment capsule having a cylindrical container portion and moving with the flow of the fluid in the container portion through which the fluid flows, the inspection unit support structure including: (2) a base portion that is placed on a bottom of the container portion; and (3) an inspection unit support portion that supports the inspection unit on the base portion, (4) The shape of the bottom of the base portion is a curved shape that contacts the inner surface of the storage portion of the storage capsule, and (5) the base portion is not fixed to the inner surface of the storage capsule when it is stored in the storage capsule. It is characterized by:

[0011] The third aspect of the present invention is an inspection assembly having (1) a cylindrical storage portion and housed in a storage capsule that moves with the flow of a fluid in a pipe through which the fluid flows, (2) an inspection portion including a camera that photographs at least the inside of the pipe, and (3) an inspection portion support structure including an inspection portion support portion that supports the inspection portion, and (4) the inspection portion support structure has a base portion placed on a bottom of the storage portion and an inspection portion support portion that supports the inspection portion on the base portion. (5) the shape of the bottom of the base portion is a curved shape that contacts the inner surface of the storage portion of the storage capsule, and (6) the base portion is not fixed to the inner surface of the storage capsule when it is stored in the storage capsule. It is characterized by: Effect of the Invention

[0013] According to the present invention, a pipe internal inspection device and an inspection assembly method that can inspect the inside of a pipe more reliably at a lower cost are provided. Body and examination Investigation department support structure Construction can be provided. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0014] [Figure 1] 1 is a side view of a pipe internal inspection device according to a first embodiment. [Diagram 2] FIG. 2 is a diagram showing a state in which the pipe inspection device according to the first embodiment is flowing inside a sewer pipe. [Diagram 3] FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating a configuration of an omnidirectional camera according to a first embodiment. [Figure 4] FIG. 1 is a diagram showing a configuration of a testing device according to a first embodiment. [Diagram 5] 1 is a diagram illustrating a structure (structure of an inspection unit) for accommodating an omnidirectional camera according to a first embodiment in an imaging tool. FIG. [Figure 6] 3A to 3C are diagrams illustrating a configuration of an inspection unit support unit according to the first embodiment. [Figure 7] 1 is a diagram illustrating a structure in which an inspection unit support structure (inspection unit support unit) according to a first embodiment supports an inspection unit (an inspection tool equipped with a spherical camera). FIG. [Figure 8]FIG. 2 is a diagram showing a structure of a containing capsule according to the first embodiment. [Figure 9] FIG. 2 is a diagram showing a structure in which the inspection assembly according to the first embodiment is housed in a housing capsule to complete the inside of a pipe inspection device. [Figure 10] 3 is a diagram showing the relationship between the containing capsule (containing portion) and the outer shape of the testing portion support structure according to the first embodiment. FIG. [Figure 11] FIG. 11 is a side view of a pipe inside inspection device according to a second embodiment. [Figure 12] 13A and 13B are diagrams showing a structure of a containing capsule according to a second embodiment. [Figure 13] FIG. 11 is a side view of a pipe inside inspection device according to a third embodiment. [Figure 14] 13A and 13B are diagrams showing a structure of a containing capsule according to a third embodiment. [Figure 15] 13A to 13C are diagrams illustrating a configuration of an inspection unit support unit according to the third embodiment. [Figure 16] FIG. 11 is a diagram showing a state in which the pipe inspection device according to the fourth embodiment is flowing inside a sewer pipe. [Figure 17] FIG. 11 is a side view of a pipe internal inspection device according to a fourth embodiment. [Figure 18] FIG. 11 is a diagram showing a state in which the pipe inspection device according to the fourth embodiment is flowing inside a sewer pipe. [Figure 19] FIG. 13 is a diagram showing a structure of a containment capsule (part 1) according to a fourth embodiment. [Figure 20] 13 is a diagram showing a lid attachment structure in a containment capsule (part 1) according to a fourth embodiment. FIG. [Figure 21] FIG. 13 is a diagram showing a structure of a containment capsule (part 2) according to a fourth embodiment. [Figure 22] FIG. 13 is a side view of a pipe inside inspection device according to a fifth embodiment. [Figure 23] 13A and 13B are diagrams showing a structure of a containing capsule according to a fifth embodiment. [Figure 24] FIG. 4 is a side view of a pipe inside inspection device according to a first modified embodiment. [Diagram 25] FIG. 11 is a side view of a pipe inside inspection device according to a second modified embodiment. [Figure 26] FIG. 11 is a side view of an inspection unit support structure according to a second modified embodiment. [Figure 27] FIG. 13 is a side view of a pipe inside inspection device according to a third modified embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0015] (A) First embodiment The following describes the pipe inspection device and inspection set according to the present invention. 3D and inspection A first embodiment of the support structure for a vehicle interior will now be described in detail with reference to the drawings.

[0016] (A-1) Configuration and operation of the first embodiment FIG. 1 is a side view of a pipe internal inspection device 10 according to this embodiment.

[0017] The pipe interior inspection device 10 is a device that inspects the inside of a pipe (for example, takes pictures of the inside of the pipe with a camera) while moving inside the pipe through which a fluid such as a sewer flows.

[0018] The pipe inspection device 10 is configured such that an inspection assembly 60 including an inspection tool 30 equipped with a spherical camera 20 and an LED light 32 is inserted into a containment capsule 40 formed using a transparent material.

[0019] The containing capsule 40 has a bell shape (approximately bullet shape) and is provided with a guide wire connection part 70 for connecting (fixing) the guide wire 80. The material of the containing capsule 40 is not limited, but it is preferably a transparent color that does not interfere with photography (photography of the inner surface of the sewer pipe) by the omnidirectional camera 20 inside. The material of the containing capsule 40 is preferably a transparent resin material such as PET (Polyethylene Terephthalate) or acrylic.

[0020] In this embodiment, the guide wire connection part 70 is described as a member formed in a ring shape, but the specific shape is not limited as long as the guide wire 80 can be connected (fixed). The guide wire connection part 70 can be made of metal such as iron or stainless steel. For example, the guide wire connection part 70 may be rod-shaped instead of ring-shaped. The guide wire 80 is a wire (thread) used when a user retrieves the pipe interior inspection device 10 from inside the pipe to be measured. One end of the guide wire 80 is connected (tied) to the guide wire connection part 70 of the containing capsule 40, and the other end is connected to the reel mechanism 90. The wire (thread) used as the guide wire 80 is not limited, but for example, a fishing line or a metal wire can be used.

[0021] The reel mechanism 90 is a mechanism for feeding and winding up the guide wire 80. For example, a fishing line reel can be used as the reel mechanism 90. The reel mechanism 90 may be of either a manual type or an electric type.

[0022] FIG. 2 is a diagram showing a state in which the pipe internal inspection device 10 of this embodiment is flowing inside a sewer pipe T.

[0023] As shown in FIG. 2, the pipe interior inspection device 10 is disposed inside a sewer pipe T through which sewage (fluid) flows, and is thereby capable of moving inside the pipe along with the flow of the sewage.

[0024] In FIG. 2, the line WL represents the water level (water surface height) of the sewage in the sewer pipe T.

[0025] As described above, the inside of the pipe inspection device 10 moves inside the sewer pipe T by riding on the flow of sewage, and the inside of the sewer pipe T is illuminated with the LED light 32 and photographed with the omnidirectional camera 20. Since the omnidirectional camera 20 can face its field of view in almost all directions, even if the attitude of the inside of the pipe inspection device 10 changes inside the sewer pipe T, it can photograph (inspect, scan) images of the entire inside of the sewer pipe T (excluding the part covered with sewage, etc.). In addition, since the inspection tool 30 is cylindrical and has the LED lights 32 installed at approximately equal intervals on the outer circumferential surface, it can photograph (scan) the inside of the sewer pipe T while illuminating the entire circumference (the inside of the sewer pipe T) evenly. Note that the inspection sensor (sensor device constituting the inspection unit) mounted on the inside of the pipe inspection device 10 is not limited to the omnidirectional camera 20, and various sensors such as an infrared camera, an illuminance sensor, a temperature sensor, etc. may be applied (multiple sensors may be mounted).

[0026] 2, the direction in which the pipe internal inspection device 10 moves with the flow of sewage inside the pipe (the direction of the sewage flow: hereinafter also referred to as the "traveling direction") is indicated by an arrow X. Hereinafter, the side of the pipe internal inspection device 10 in the traveling direction will be referred to as the "front side," and the side opposite to the traveling direction will be referred to as the "rear side."

[0027] In the following, when describing the configuration of the in-pipe inspection device 10, when the in-pipe inspection device 10 is placed in a pipe (for example, in a sewer pipe) (for example, when placed in a state in which the sewage surface WL and the traveling direction X are parallel as shown in FIG. 2), the direction parallel to the traveling direction (for example, the left-right direction as seen from the perspective of FIG. 2) will be referred to as the "length direction", the direction parallel to the vertical direction (direction perpendicular to WL) (up-down direction as seen from the perspective of FIG. 2) will be referred to as the "height direction", and the direction perpendicular to the traveling direction above the liquid surface of the fluid (above the sewage surface WL in FIG. 2) (depth direction as seen from the perspective of FIG. 2) will be referred to as the "width direction". In addition, in the following, the upper side will be referred to as the "upper direction", the lower side as the "downward direction", the front side as the "frontward direction", and the rear side as the "rearward direction" as seen from the perspective of FIG. 2.

[0028] Next, the configuration of the omnidirectional camera 20 will be described with reference to FIG.

[0029] 3(a) to 3(c) are a side view, a front view, and a bottom view, respectively, of omnidirectional camera 20.

[0030] Although the specific configuration of the omnidirectional camera 20 is not limited, in this embodiment, an example will be described in which a so-called 360-degree camera (a RICOH THETA (registered trademark) series camera) manufactured by Ricoh Co., Ltd. is used as the omnidirectional camera 20.

[0031] As shown in Fig. 3, the main body of the omnidirectional camera 20 has a vertically long plate shape, and lenses 21 and 22 are arranged on both upper side surfaces (each plate surface). Also, a screw hole 23 that can be connected to a device such as a tripod or a selfie stick is formed on the bottom surface of the omnidirectional camera 20. In Fig. 3, the dimensions of the longitudinal direction (length direction), transverse direction (height direction), and plate thickness (width direction) of the plate surface of the omnidirectional camera 20 are illustrated as L31, L32, and L33, respectively. In this embodiment, it is assumed that L31 = 130 mm, L32 = 45 mm, and L33 = 23 mm.

[0032] Here, it is assumed that a battery and a data recording medium (not shown) are mounted on the omnidirectional camera 20. Therefore, the omnidirectional camera 20 can start shooting a video (shooting a video that covers the entire surroundings within the field of view; so-called VR video shooting) in response to a user's operation (for example, a button operation not shown or a remote operation using a wireless terminal such as a smartphone) and record the shot video data in the data recording medium.

[0033] In this embodiment, a spherical camera is used as the inspection sensor (inspection device), but a camera that does not have a spherical field of view may be used. However, it is preferable that the field of view of the camera applied to the inside of the pipe inspection device 10 is wide (with few blind spots).

[0034] Next, the configuration of the testing tool 30 will be described with reference to FIG.

[0035] 4(a) to 4(c) are a perspective view, a front view, and a rear view of the testing instrument 30, respectively.

[0036] Although the specific configuration of the inspection tool 30 is not limited, this embodiment will be described as applying the photographing tool (panoramic photographing device) described in Reference Document 1 (Utility Model Registration No. 3212609).

[0037] The inspection tool 30 has a cylindrical body and has LED lights 32 arranged at approximately equal intervals on the outer circumferential surface. A camera housing hole 31 is arranged on the front surface of the inspection tool 30 to house (support) the longitudinal half of the omnidirectional camera 20 (the side on which the lenses 21 and 22 are not arranged) and to protrude the longitudinal half of the inspection tool 30 including the lenses 21 and 22 (the longitudinal half). A screw hole 33 is formed on the rear surface of the inspection tool 30 to be connected to a device (a so-called camera accessory) such as a tripod or a so-called "selfie stick." The inspection tool 30 is equipped with a battery (not shown), and the battery supplies power to the LED lights 32.

[0038] 4, the dimensions of the inspection instrument 30 in the width direction and height direction (diameter of the cylindrical shape) are shown as L21, and the dimension in the length direction (height of the cylindrical shape) is shown as L22. In this embodiment, the description will be given assuming that L21=95 mm, and L22=80 mm.

[0039] The structure for housing the omnidirectional camera 20 in the inspection tool 30 (the structure of the inspection unit) will be described with reference to FIG.

[0040] FIG. 5(a) is a diagram showing the state before the omnidirectional camera 20 is accommodated (inserted) in the camera accommodating hole 31 of the inspection tool 30, and FIG. 5(b) is a diagram showing the state after the omnidirectional camera 20 has been accommodated (inserted) in the camera accommodating hole 31 of the inspection tool 30.

[0041] Next, the configuration of the inspection unit support structure 50 will be described with reference to FIGS.

[0042] The inspection tool 30 is a device that supports the spherical camera 20 and is equipped with a lighting means for illuminating the inside of the piping.

[0043] 6(a) to 6(e) are views of the inspection-unit support structure 50 as seen from above, from the front side, from below, from the front side, and from the rear side, respectively.

[0044] The inspection unit support structure 50 has a base portion 51 formed in a shape (a shape corresponding to the inner surface of the containing capsule 40) whose bottom surface (side surface) contacts the inner surface (bottom) of the containing capsule 40 (containing portion 41), and an inspection unit support portion 52 that supports the inspection instrument 30 above the base portion 51.

[0045] In Fig. 5, the bottom surface of the base part 51 has a U-shape (a shape corresponding to the cylindrical inner surface of the containing capsule 40; a kamaboko shape with a flat upper surface) that contacts the shape of the cylindrical inner surface of the containing capsule 40. As shown in Fig. 5, the base part 51 is placed on the bottom of the containing capsule 40 (containing part 41). The inspection part support structure 50 may be fixed detachably within the containing capsule 40 by various fixing means, locking means, etc.

[0046] FIG. 7 is a diagram showing a structure in which the inspection unit support structure 50 (inspection unit support portion 52) supports (connects) the inspection tool 30 (the inspection tool 30 on which the omnidirectional camera 20 is mounted).

[0047] Figure 7(a) is a diagram showing the state before the inspection instrument 30 is connected to the inspection unit support structure 50, and Figure 7(b) is a diagram showing the state after the inspection instrument 30 has been connected to the inspection unit support structure 50.

[0048] As described above, the inspection unit support part 52 is shaped to support the inspection tool 30 (the inspection tool 30 on which the omnidirectional camera 20 is mounted) on the upper side of the base part 51. Although the specific shape of the inspection unit support part 52 is not limited, in Figs. 5 and 6, the inspection unit support part 52 is shaped like a kamaboko fish, and a support screw 53 that supports the inspection tool 30 by screwing (connecting) it into the screw hole 33 of the inspection tool 30 is formed on the front surface. In this embodiment, the inspection unit support part 52 and the inspection tool 30 are supported by screwing them together, but the structure in which the inspection unit support part 52 supports the inspection tool 30 is not limited to screwing, and various support structures can be applied. For example, a structure in which magnets are attached to each of the inspection unit support part 52 and the inspection tool 30 and they are supported (connected) by magnetic force may be used.

[0049] In this specification, the inspection tool 30 equipped (connected) with the omnidirectional camera 20 is also referred to as an "inspection unit." For example, if the containing capsule 40 is equipped with a lighting means other than the inspection tool 30, the inspection tool 30 is unnecessary, and therefore the omnidirectional camera 20 (threaded hole 23 on the lower surface) may be directly connected (screwed) to the inspection unit support unit 52 (support screw 53). In this case, the inspection unit is only the omnidirectional camera 20. As described above, the inspection unit connected to the inspection unit support structure 50 (inspection unit support unit 52) ​​only needs to include at least the omnidirectional camera 20.

[0050] The shape of the upper surface of the inspection unit support part 52 needs to be a shape that does not interfere with the cylindrical inner surface of the containing capsule 40 when inserted into the containing capsule 40. In Figures 5 and 6, the upper surface of the inspection unit support part 52 has a chamfered shape (a shape corresponding to the cylindrical inner surface of the containing capsule 40) so as not to interfere with the cylindrical inner surface of the containing capsule 40 when inserted into the containing capsule 40.

[0051] As shown in FIG. 6(b), an inspection assembly 60 is formed by connecting (connecting) the inspection unit support structure 50 (inspection unit support part 52) ​​to the inspection tool 30 (inspection tool 30 equipped with the omnidirectional camera 20).

[0052] 6, the height dimension of the inspection-unit support structure 50 is illustrated as L41, and the length dimension is illustrated as L42. Also, in FIG. 6, the height dimension of the base unit 51 is illustrated as L43.

[0053] Next, the shape of the containment capsule 40 will be described in detail with reference to FIG.

[0054] The containing capsule 40 has a tubular (cylindrical) containing section 41 capable of containing the inspection assembly 60. The front opening of the containing section 41 is covered with a hemispherical dome section, and a lid 42 is attached to the rear opening. As shown in Fig. 8, a guide wire connecting section 70 is attached to the lid 42.

[0055] The storage section 41 has a threaded portion 411 formed on the outer edge portion of the rear end (the outer edge portion of the opening) for screwing with the lid 42. The inner peripheral surface of the lid 42 is also threaded for screwing with the threaded portion 411 of the storage section 41. As described above, in this embodiment, the storage section 41 and the lid 42 are structured to be detachably attached to each other. The structure for detachably connecting (connecting) the storage section 41 and the lid 42 is not limited to the above-mentioned screwing, and various structures can be applied.

[0056] In FIG. 8, the inner diameter (height and depth) dimension of the housing portion 41 (cylindrical shape) is illustrated as L11, and the length (lengthwise direction) dimension of the housing portion 41 (cylindrical shape) is illustrated as L12.

[0057] The longer the length L42 of the inspection-unit support structure 50, the more stable the position and posture of the inspection-unit support structure 50 in the accommodation section 41, but it goes without saying that the length L42 of the inspection-unit support structure 50 needs to be equal to or less than the length L12 of the accommodation section 41. Also, the lengths L42 and L12 may be the same, but as shown in FIG. 7, if the front end of the inspection-unit support structure 50 (the end of the base section 51) is formed to be located behind the lenses 21 and 22 of the omnidirectional camera 20, the field of view below the omnidirectional camera 20 will be improved.

[0058] Next, the structure in which the inspection assembly 60 is housed in the housing capsule 40 to complete the inside of a pipe inspection device 10 will be described with reference to FIG.

[0059] FIG. 9(a) is a diagram showing a state before the inspection assembly 60 is accommodated in the accommodation portion 41 of the accommodation capsule 40. FIG. 9(b) is a diagram showing a state in which the inspection assembly 60 is inserted from the opening of the accommodation portion 41 of the accommodation capsule 40. As shown in FIG. 9(a) and FIG. 9(b), the inspection assembly 60 can be inserted from the opening of the accommodation capsule 40 (accommodation portion 41) while sliding the bottom surface (bottom surface of the base portion 51) of the inspection assembly 60 against the inner surface (bottom portion) of the accommodation capsule 40 (accommodation portion 41). Then, with the inspection assembly 60 inserted inside the accommodation portion 41 of the accommodation capsule 40, the lid 42 is attached (attached by screwing) to the opening of the accommodation portion 41, thereby completing the inside-pipe inspection device 10.

[0060] Next, a method for inspecting the sewer pipe T using the inside-pipe inspection device 10 will be described.

[0061] When the user attaches the inspection unit (the inspection tool 30 equipped with the omnidirectional camera 20) to the inspection unit support structure 50, the inspection assembly 60 is completed. Furthermore, it is assumed that the user inserts the inspection assembly 60 into the storage capsule 40 (the storage section 41) and attaches the lid 42. Note that, here, it is assumed that the user turns on the switch of the inspection tool 30 (the LED light 32 is turned on) and starts capturing images with the omnidirectional camera 20 before the inspection assembly 60 is inserted into the storage capsule 40 (the storage section 41). With the above, the in-pipe inspection device 10 is completed and is in a state where it can capture images while illuminating the surroundings and record the captured video images. In this state, it is assumed that the user flows the in-pipe inspection device 10 into the sewer pipe T to be inspected and later retrieves it downstream. It is assumed that the user then separates the inspection assembly 60 from the in-pipe inspection device 10 and removes the omnidirectional camera 20 from the inspection assembly 60. Since the omnidirectional camera 20 (data recording medium, not shown) records moving images (inspection results) of the inner surface of the sewer pipe T to be inspected, the user can check the moving images (inspection results) by various playback means (for example, playback means using a terminal such as a smartphone or a PC). After the user retrieves the inside-pipe inspection device 10 from the sewer pipe T, the user can easily separate only the containing capsule 40 and dispose of it (for example, dispose of it, wash it, etc.).

[0062] Next, the design of the dimensions of the support structure 50 for the testing unit and the containing capsule 40 will be described with reference to FIG.

[0063] Fig. 10 is a diagram showing the relationship between the containing capsule 40 (containing section 41) and the outer shape (outer shape in a plane perpendicular to the traveling direction) of the inspection unit support structure 50. Fig. 10 is a diagram showing the containing capsule 40 with the inspection assembly 60 (inspection unit support structure 50) inserted therein, as viewed from the rear side (with the lid 42 removed). In Fig. 10, the inspection unit support structure 50 is shown hatched (diagonal lines).

[0064] Usually, the smallest diameter of sewer pipes buried underground under roads is about 20 cm. Therefore, in order to smoothly flow the in-pipe inspection device 10 (container capsule 40) in the sewer pipe, it is desirable that the outer diameter of the containment capsule 40 is smaller than 20 cm (for example, about 12 cm to 16 cm). Therefore, for example, if the containment capsule 40 is made of a transparent resin with a thickness of 1 mm, it is desirable that the inner diameter L11 of the containment capsule 40 (container section 41) is about 11.8 cm to 15.8 cm. And, naturally, the height dimension L41 of the inspection section support structure 50 needs to be smaller than the inner diameter L11 of the containment capsule 40 (container section 41). For example, the height dimension L41 of the inspection unit support structure 50 may be a dimension obtained by subtracting about 2 mm to 4 mm from the inner diameter L11 of the containment capsule 40 (containment section 41) (i.e., L41=L11-α; α indicates an offset (slight gap) of about 1 mm to 4 mm). Setting α (slight gap) to be small will stabilize the position and posture of the inspection unit support structure 50 within the containment capsule 40 (containment section 41) (reducing rattling, etc.); however, if α is too small, it will be difficult to insert the inspection unit support structure 50 into the containment capsule 40, so it is desirable to set it to about 2 mm to 4 mm.

[0065] That is, in the inspection unit support structure 50, the bottom surface of the base portion 51 is shaped to correspond to the bottom of the storage portion 41 of the containment capsule 40 (U-shaped in this embodiment), and the above-mentioned appropriate dimension is applied to α (small gap), so that the outer shape of the inspection unit support structure 50 (outer shape formed by the base portion 51 and the inspection unit support portion 52; outer shape in a plane perpendicular to the traveling direction) can be shaped to correspond to the inner surface of the containment capsule 40 (storage portion 41) (a shape that is almost in contact with the inner surface of the containment capsule 40 (storage portion 41)). This makes it possible to stabilize the position and posture of the inspection unit support structure 50 within the containment capsule 40 (storage portion 41).

[0066] There is no limitation on the material applied to the inspection unit support structure 50, and various resins, wood, metals, etc. can be applied. The base portion 51 and the inspection unit support portion 52 may be hollow or solid.

[0067] (A-2) Effects of the First Embodiment According to this embodiment, the following effects can be obtained.

[0068] In the first embodiment, the inspection assembly 60 can be configured simply by attaching the inspection tool 30 equipped with the omnidirectional camera 20 to the inspection unit support structure 50, and further, the inside-pipe inspection device 10 can be configured simply by inserting the inspection assembly 60 into the storage capsule 40 (storage unit 41) and attaching the lid 42. Also, in the first embodiment, it is possible to obtain video images (inspection data) of the inner surface of the sewer pipe T by simply flowing the inside-pipe inspection device 10 into the sewer pipe T to be inspected and then recovering it downstream.

[0069] Furthermore, in the first embodiment, after the inside-pipe inspection device 10 is flushed through the sewer pipe T, the inspection assembly 60 can be easily removed from the inside-pipe inspection device 10 and recovered.

[0070] (B) Second embodiment The following describes the in-pipe inspection device and the inspection and assembly according to the present invention. Body and examination Investigation department support structure Construction The second embodiment will be described in detail with reference to the drawings.

[0071] (B-1) Configuration and operation of the second embodiment Fig. 11 is a side view of an internal pipe inspection device 10A of this embodiment. In Fig. 11, the same or corresponding parts as those in Fig. 1 above are denoted by the same or corresponding reference numerals.

[0072] The pipe inside inspection device 10A of the second embodiment is different from the first embodiment in that the containment capsule 40 is replaced with a containment capsule 40A.

[0073] FIG. 12 is a diagram showing the configuration of a containing capsule 40A according to the second embodiment.

[0074] The storage capsule 40A has a cylindrical (columnar) storage section 41A, a lid 43 that covers the front side (opening) of the storage section 41A, and a lid 42 that covers the rear side (opening) of the storage section 41A. As shown in Fig. 12, a guide wire connection section 70 is attached to the rear lid 42.

[0075] Threaded portions 411, 412 are formed on the outer edge portions of both ends (the outer periphery of the opening) of the storage section 41A to screw into the lids 42, 43, respectively. In addition, threaded portions are formed on the inner periphery of the lids 42, 43 to screw into the threaded portions 411, 412 of the storage section 41A, respectively. As described above, in this embodiment, the storage section 41A has a structure in which the lids 42, 43 are detachably attached to both ends. The structure for detachably attaching the lids 42, 43 to the storage section 41A is not limited to the above-mentioned screwing, and various structures can be applied.

[0076] In the containment capsule 40A of the second embodiment, the inspection assembly 60 can be inserted from one end (opening) of the containing section 41A. Then, in the second embodiment, after the inspection assembly 60 is contained in the containment capsule 40A, the lids 42 and 43 are attached to configure the inside of the pipe inspection device 10A (as shown in FIG. 11).

[0077] Incidentally, for example, an existing pneumatic tube may be applied as the containing capsule 40A. The pneumatic tube is a means for transporting a cylindrical container containing a load by placing the load in the tube and using compressed air or vacuum pressure.

[0078] (B-2) Effects of the Second Embodiment According to this embodiment, in addition to the effects of the first embodiment, the following effects can be achieved.

[0079] In the second embodiment, the shape of the containing capsule 40A can be adapted to an existing pneumatic tube, so if a pneumatic tube that matches the shape of the inspection assembly 60 exists, the containing capsule 40A can be constructed at very low cost.

[0080] (C) Third embodiment The following describes the in-pipe inspection device and the inspection and assembly according to the present invention. Body and examination Investigation department support structure Construction The third embodiment will be described in detail with reference to the drawings.

[0081] (C-1) Configuration and operation of the third embodiment Fig. 13 is a side view of the inside of a pipe inspection device 10B of this embodiment. In Fig. 13, the same or corresponding parts as those in Fig. 1 above are denoted by the same or corresponding reference numerals.

[0082] The third embodiment of the pipe internal inspection device 10B is different from the first embodiment in that the containing capsule 40 and the inspection assembly 60 are replaced with a containing capsule 40B and an inspection assembly 60B, respectively.

[0083] FIG. 14 is a diagram showing the configuration of a containing capsule 40B according to the third embodiment.

[0084] 14(a) to 14(e) are views of the containing capsule 40B as seen from above, from the front side, from below, from the front side, and from the rear side, respectively.

[0085] As shown in Figs. 13 and 14, the third embodiment differs from the first embodiment in that the shape of the bottom surface of the containment capsule 40B is similar to that of a ship. As shown in Fig. 14, the bottom surface (bottom surface of the ship shape) of the containment capsule 40B is approximately U-shaped, and is tapered so that the width gradually narrows toward both ends (front end and rear end) in the length direction. As shown in Fig. 14, the front end portion of the containment capsule 40B is shaped to form an acute angle when viewed from above. Furthermore, as shown in Fig. 14, the front end portion of the containment capsule 40B is formed in a shape that increases in slope from the bottom side (bottom surface) to the top side (top surface). In other words, the front end portion of the containment capsule 40B is formed in a shape (bow shape) based on the same idea as the so-called "High-chin spoon bow".

[0086] In the containing capsule 40B, the containing section 41B that contains the inspection assembly 60B also has a shape corresponding to the outer shape. Here, as shown in Fig. 14, the containing section 41B has a substantially U-shaped cross section (a shape corresponding to the outer shape of the containing capsule 40B; a bell-shaped shape with a flat upper side).

[0087] An opening 44 through which the inspection assembly 60B can be inserted and removed is provided on the top surface of the containing capsule 40B (the upper surface of the containing section 41B). A lid 45 that covers (closes) the opening 44 is attached detachably (openably and closably) to the top surface of the containing capsule 40B. The structure for attaching the lid 45 detachably (openably and closably) to the opening 44 is not limited, and various configurations can be applied.

[0088] An inspection assembly 60B of this embodiment differs from the first embodiment in that the inspection unit support structure 50 is replaced with an inspection unit support structure 50B.

[0089] FIG. 15 is a diagram showing the configuration of an inspection-unit support structure 50B according to the third embodiment.

[0090] 15(a) to 15(e) are views respectively of the inspection-unit support structure 50B as seen from above, from the front side, from below, from the front side, and from the rear side.

[0091] The inspection unit support structure 50B is different from the first embodiment in that the base portion 51 and the inspection unit support portion 52 are replaced with a base portion 51B and an inspection unit support portion 52B. The bottom surface of the base portion 51B has a U-shape that is in contact with the shape of the bottom surface of the storage portion 41B (the inner bottom portion of the storage capsule 40B). As shown in FIG. 15, the upper surface of the inspection unit support portion 52B is a flat surface that corresponds to the upper surface of the storage portion 41B.

[0092] FIG. 16 is a diagram showing a state in which the pipe internal inspection device 10B of this embodiment is caused to flow inside a sewer pipe T.

[0093] As shown in FIG. 16, the in-pipe inspection device 10B is disposed in a sewer pipe T through which sewage (fluid) flows, and moves in the pipe along with the flow of the sewage. FIG. 16 shows a state in which the water surface WL (water level) in the sewer pipe T is shallow and sludge Z is present on the path of the in-pipe inspection device 10B. In this way, in the sewer pipe T, sludge that impedes the movement of the in-pipe inspection device 10B in the traveling direction X may be present. However, the bottom surface of the containment capsule 40B of the in-pipe inspection device 10B has a shape that reduces resistance to the water surface WL (for example, a shape with an acute tip) similar to the bow of a ship. As a result, the in-pipe inspection device 10B of the third embodiment can suppress the sludge Z or the like from impeding the movement in the traveling direction X.

[0094] (C-3) Effects of the Third Embodiment According to this embodiment, in addition to the effects of the first embodiment, the following effects can be achieved.

[0095] In the third embodiment, the bottom surface of the containing capsule 40B has a shape that reduces resistance to the water surface WL, so that the hindrance of movement in the traveling direction X by the sludge Z or the like can be suppressed.

[0096] (D) Fourth embodiment The following describes the in-pipe inspection device and the inspection and assembly according to the present invention. Body and examination Investigation department support structure Construction The fourth embodiment will be described in detail with reference to the drawings.

[0097] (D-1) Configuration of the Fourth Embodiment Fig. 17 is a side view of an internal pipe inspection device 10C of this embodiment. In Fig. 17, the same or corresponding parts as those in Fig. 1 above are denoted by the same or corresponding reference numerals.

[0098] The fourth embodiment of the pipe internal inspection device 10C differs from the first embodiment in that the containment capsule 40 is replaced with a containment capsule 40C, and a propulsion unit 100 is attached to the rear end of the containment capsule 40C. The propulsion unit 100 is a means (propulsion means, propulsion means) that generates a propulsive force for propelling the pipe internal inspection device 10C (containment capsule 40C) in the traveling direction X by rotating a screw 102 in the sewage (fluid). The propulsion unit 100 has a motor 101 and a screw 102 that rotates by the driving force of the motor 101. As the propulsion unit 100, for example, various small underwater motors can be applied.

[0099] FIG. 18 is a diagram showing a state in which the pipe internal inspection device 10C of this embodiment is caused to flow inside a sewer pipe T.

[0100] As shown in FIG. 18, the inside-pipe inspection device 10C can move inside the pipe by riding on the flow of the sewage when placed inside a sewer pipe T through which sewage (fluid) flows. FIG. 18 shows a state in which sludge Z is present on the path of the inside-pipe inspection device 10C inside the sewer pipe T. However, since a propulsive force (biasing force) in the moving direction X is applied to the inside-pipe inspection device 10C by the propulsion unit 100, the front end of the inside-pipe inspection device 10C (containment capsule 40C) is prompted to push aside (push aside) the sludge Z. In other words, in the inside-pipe inspection device 10C, the propulsive force (biasing force) of the propulsion unit 100 can suppress the sludge Z from hindering the movement in the moving direction X.

[0101] 19 and 20 are diagrams showing the configuration of a containing capsule 40C according to the fourth embodiment.

[0102] 19(a) to 19(e) are views of the containing capsule 40C as seen from above, from the front side, from below, from the front side, and from the rear side, respectively.

[0103] 17 and 19, in the fourth embodiment, a tapered portion 46 is formed on the rear side of the containment capsule 40C, the diameter of which gradually decreases (narrows) toward the rear end. The propulsion portion 100 is attached to the tip (rear end) of the tapered portion 46.

[0104] However, in the containing capsule 40C of the fourth embodiment, the shape of the containing portion 41C itself is a tubular shape (cylindrical shape) similar to that of the first embodiment. Therefore, the following description will be given assuming that an inspection assembly 60 having a shape similar to that of the first embodiment can be applied.

[0105] An opening through which the inspection assembly 60 can be inserted and removed is provided at the rear side of the containing capsule 40C (containing section 41C), and a lid 47 is detachably attached to the opening. A guide wire connecting section 70 is attached to the lid 47.

[0106] As shown in Fig. 20, in the storage section 41C, a threaded portion 413 for screwing with the lid 47 is formed on the outer edge portion of the rear end (the outer edge portion of the opening). In addition, a thread is also formed on the inner peripheral surface of the lid 47 for screwing with the threaded portion 413 of the storage section 41C. As described above, in this embodiment, the storage section 41C and the lid 47 are structured to be detachably attached to each other. The structure for detachably connecting (connecting) the storage section 41C and the lid 47 is not limited to the above-mentioned screwing, and various structures can be applied.

[0107] In the fourth embodiment, the containing capsule 40C may be replaced with a containing capsule 40D shown in FIG.

[0108] In the containing capsule 40C, not only the rear end portion but also the front end portion is formed in a tapered shape. For example, in the containing capsule 40D shown in Fig. 21, not only the rear side but also the front side is formed with a tapered portion 48 that gradually becomes smaller (narrows) in diameter toward the front end. In the containing capsule 40D shown in Fig. 21, the leading end portion 49 (the most front end portion) of the tapered portion 48 is formed to form an acute angle. In the containing capsule 40C, by forming the tapered portion 48 on the front side as well, the resistance of the sludge Z present in the traveling direction X can be suppressed (prompting the pushing aside of the sludge Z).

[0109] (D-2) Effects of the Fourth Embodiment According to this embodiment, in addition to the effects of the first embodiment, the following effects can be achieved.

[0110] In the pipe inside inspection device 10C of the fourth embodiment, the propulsion force (biasing force) of the propulsion unit 100 can suppress the hindrance of the movement of the sludge Z in the traveling direction X.

[0111] (E) Fifth embodiment The following describes the in-pipe inspection device and the inspection and assembly according to the present invention. Body and examination Investigation department support structure Construction The fifth embodiment will be described in detail with reference to the drawings.

[0112] (E-1) Configuration and operation of the fifth embodiment Fig. 22 is a side view of an internal pipe inspection device 10E of this embodiment. In Fig. 22, the same or corresponding parts as those in Fig. 1 are denoted by the same or corresponding reference numerals.

[0113] In the fourth embodiment, the containment capsule 40 is replaced with a containment capsule 40E in the pipe internal inspection device 10E. The containment capsule 40E differs from the first embodiment in that a propulsion unit 100 is attached to the rear end. The propulsion unit 100 is a means (propulsion unit, propulsion unit) that generates a propulsive force for propelling the pipe internal inspection device 10C (containment capsule 40C) in the traveling direction X by rotating a screw 102 in the sewer. The propulsion unit 100 has a motor 101 and a screw 102 that is rotated by the motor 101.

[0114] In the fifth embodiment, a pump device 130 that takes in surrounding air, compresses it, and releases the compressed air is connected to a tube 120. The tube 120 is inserted into the containing capsule 40E from the rear end, and is connected to an outlet 410 (opening) provided at the front end (tip) of the containing capsule 40E. That is, in the fifth embodiment, the compressed air released from the pump device 130 is released from the outlet 410 (opening) at the front end of the containing capsule 40E via the tube 120.

[0115] FIG. 23 is a perspective view of the containment capsule 40E.

[0116] 23, the lid 42E is provided with a hole 421 for passing the tube 120. That is, the tube 120 extending from the pump device 130 is inserted into the containing capsule 40E through the hole 421 of the lid 42E.

[0117] As described above, there may be sludge present inside the sewer pipe T that impedes the movement of the inside pipe inspection device 10E in the traveling direction X. However, in the inside pipe inspection device 10E, compressed air (compressed air discharged from the pump device 130) is discharged from the outlet 410 (opening) at the front end. As a result, in the inside pipe inspection device 10E of this embodiment, the compressed air discharged from the outlet 410 (opening) at the front end is encouraged to push aside (push aside) the sludge Z present in the traveling direction X.

[0118] (E-2) Effects of the Fifth Embodiment According to this embodiment, in addition to the effects of the first embodiment, the following effects can be obtained.

[0119] In other words, in the pipe internal inspection device 10E, the compressed air discharged from the air outlet 410 (opening) at the front end can suppress the hindrance of movement of the sludge Z in the traveling direction X. Also, in the pipe internal inspection device 10E, the propulsion force (biasing force) of the propulsion unit 100 can suppress the reaction caused by the compressed air being discharged from the front end, and promote the movement in the new construction direction X.

[0120] (F) Other embodiments The present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiments, and may include modified embodiments such as those exemplified below.

[0121] (F-1) In each of the above embodiments, the pipe inspection device is equipped with the inspection tool 30 equipped with the LED light 32 as a lighting means for illuminating the inside of the sewer pipe, but the configuration of the lighting means is not limited and various configurations can be applied. For example, an LED tape with LED tape lights arranged at equal intervals may be attached around or on the inner surface of the containment capsule.

[0122] FIG. 24 is a diagram showing the configuration of a pipe inside inspection device 10F (first modified embodiment) according to the first modified embodiment.

[0123] FIG. 24 illustrates a configuration (pipe interior inspection device 10F) in which the inspection tool 30 is removed from the pipe interior inspection device 10 of the first embodiment, and a plurality of LED tape lights 140 (three in FIG. 24) in which LED lights 141 are formed at equal intervals on the outer circumferential surface of the containing capsule 40 are wound around the container capsule 40. In FIG. 24, the omnidirectional camera 20 (the screw hole 23 on the lower surface) is directly connected (screwed) to the inspection unit support part 52 (support screw 53) of the inspection unit support structure 50. The LED tape light 140 may be an existing one (preferably one having waterproof performance). Note that, in FIG. 24, the power source of the LED tape light 140 is not illustrated, but a battery that supplies power to the LED tape light 140 may be mounted in the container capsule 40 or the inspection unit support part 52. Note that, in FIG. 24, the configuration in which the LED tape light 140 is provided as the illumination means has been described, but it may be replaced with another illumination device (for example, a configuration in which a plurality of individual LED lights are attached). Similarly, the pipe inside inspection devices 10B, 10C, and 10D according to the second to fourth embodiments may also be provided with an LED tape light 140 as lighting means.

[0124] (F-2) In the pipe internal inspection devices 10, 10B, and 10C of the first to third embodiments, the propelling unit 100 may be attached to the rear end portion of the containing capsule 40, 40B, and 40C, as in the fourth embodiment. Also, in the pipe internal inspection devices 10D and 10E of the fourth embodiment, the propelling unit 100 may be excluded from the containing capsule 40D and 40E.

[0125] (F-3) In each of the above embodiments, the storage capsule is provided with a guide wire connecting portion 70, but if the guide wire 80 is not required, the guide wire connecting portion 70 may be excluded from the storage capsule.

[0126] (F-4) In the first embodiment of the in-pipe inspection device, it is desirable that the center of gravity of the in-pipe inspection device 10 is biased to one side (e.g., the lower side) in order to stabilize the posture of the in-pipe inspection device 10 (omnidirectional camera 20) inside the sewer pipe T. For example, the inside of the base part 51 of the inspection unit support structure 50 may be configured as a weight receiving part, and a weight may be appropriately disposed inside, thereby adjusting the position of the center of gravity of the in-pipe inspection device 10.

[0127] FIG. 25 is a diagram showing the configuration of a pipe inside inspection device 10G (second modified embodiment) according to the second modified embodiment.

[0128] The inside of a pipe inspection device 10G is different from the first embodiment in that the inspection unit support structure 50 is replaced with an inspection unit support structure 50G.

[0129] FIG. 26 is a diagram showing the configuration of an inspection-unit support structure 50G according to a second modified embodiment.

[0130] Fig. 26(a) is a front view of the inspection unit support structure 50G, and Fig. 26(b) is a side view (right side view) of the inspection unit support structure 50G. Fig. 26(c) is an enlarged cross-sectional view taken along line AA in Fig. 26(b).

[0131] The inspection unit support structure 50G differs from the first embodiment in that the base portion 51 is replaced with a base portion 51G. In the inspection unit support structure 50G, the base portion 51G has a hollow structure, and is provided with a weight housing portion 511 for housing the weight WT therein.

[0132] FIG. 26(d) is a diagram showing an example of the configuration (example of the shape) of the weight WT.

[0133] In the inspection unit support structure 50G, one or more weights WT may be disposed inside the weight accommodating portion 511 of the base portion 51G, thereby making it possible to adjust the center of gravity and the draft of the pipe inside inspection device 10.

[0134] The shape of the material of the weight accommodated in the weight accommodating portion 511 is not limited, but it is preferably a low-cost metal with a large specific gravity (for example, an alloy containing lead). The shape of the weight WT may be, for example, a rod shape that is approximately the same as the length of the weight accommodating portion 511 in the longitudinal direction (longitudinal direction), as shown in FIG. 26(d). The weight WT shown in FIG. 26(d) has a rod shape with a circular cross section. The shape (shape and length of the cross section) of the weight WT is not limited. For example, the cross section of the weight WT may be a polygon (for example, a square, a pentagon, a hexagon, an octagon, etc.) or an ellipse. By making the weight WT a rod shape that is approximately the same as the length of the weight accommodating portion 511 in the longitudinal direction (longitudinal direction), it is possible to reduce deviation of the center of gravity in the longitudinal direction of the inspection unit support structure 50G.

[0135] 26(a), an opening 512 for inserting and removing the weight WT from the weight housing 511 is provided on the front side of the base 51G. A lid 513 is attached to the opening 512 in a detachable manner. The position and shape of the opening 512 and the structure for attaching the lid 513 to the opening 512 are not limited, and various structures (for example, a structure for allowing the lid to be detached by using screws, claws, etc.) can be applied.

[0136] 26(c), if the bottom of the weight accommodating section 511 is U-shaped to match the bottom surface of the base section 51G, the weight WT in the weight accommodating section 511 will gather at the bottom of the weight accommodating section 511 due to gravity (its own weight). This allows the center of gravity of the inspection section support structure 50G (i.e., the center of gravity of the entire inside-pipe inspection device 10G) to be adjusted to the base section 51G side (the weight accommodating section 511 side; downward). This allows the entire posture of the inside-pipe inspection device 10G to be stabilized.

[0137] Furthermore, in the inspection unit support structure 50G, the dimension (width) of the draft (waterline) of the inside of the pipe inspection device 10 can be adjusted in the pipe by the number of weights WT (amount of weights) accommodated in the base part 51G (weight accommodating part 511), thereby enabling the inside of the pipe inspection device 10 to flow stably. For example, in the sewer pipe T, when the water surface WL is high (deep), the amount of weights accommodated in the base part 51G (weight accommodating part 511) can be increased to lengthen (increase) the dimension of the draft, and when the water surface WL is low (shallow), the amount of weights accommodated in the base part 51G (weight accommodating part) can be decreased to shorten (smaller) the dimension of the draft.

[0138] In addition, in the inspection unit support structures 50A, 50B, 50C, and 50D of the second to fifth embodiments, a weight receiving portion may be provided in the base portion to receive the weight.

[0139] (F-5) In each of the above embodiments, the device may be provided with a means for acquiring location information of the device itself (hereinafter referred to as a "location information acquisition means") and a means for communicating with the outside (wireless or wired communication) (hereinafter referred to as a "communication means").

[0140] FIG. 27 is a diagram showing the configuration of an inside pipe inspection device 10H according to the second modified embodiment (third modified embodiment).

[0141] The inside of a pipe inspection device 10H is different from the first embodiment in that the inspection unit support structure 50 is replaced with an inspection unit support structure 50H.

[0142] An inspection unit support structure 50H shown in FIG. 27 has a configuration in which a position information acquisition means 150 and a communication means 160 are added to the inspection unit support section 52 of the inspection unit support structure 50 of the first embodiment.

[0143] There is no limitation on the method by which the location information acquisition means 150 acquires location information. For example, the location information acquisition means 150 may be a means for acquiring location information based on radio waves received from an external source (for example, a GPS satellite or a wireless beacon, not shown).

[0144] As the communication means 160, for example, a computer (eg, a microcomputer or the like equipped with a wireless communication interface (eg, an interface such as a wireless LAN) may be applied.

[0145] For example, communication means 160 may transmit the position information acquired by position information acquisition means 150 and the image data (video data) acquired by omnidirectional camera 20 to an external device (e.g., an external terminal or server) in real time, thereby outputting data linking the position in the pipe with the image data. Note that in inspection unit support structure 50H, communication means 160 may be replaced with a computer having a data recording function, thereby recording the data linking the position in the pipe with the image data. [Explanation of symbols]

[0146] 10...pipe inspection device, 20...spherical camera, 21...lens, 22...lens, 23...screw hole, 30...inspection tool, 31...camera housing, 32...LED light, 33...screw hole, 40...housing capsule, 41...housing section, 411...screw cutting section, 42...lid, 50...inspection section support structure, 51...base section, 52...inspection section support section, 53...support screw, 60...inspection assembly, 70...guide wire connection section, 80...guide wire, 90...reel mechanism.

Claims

1. In a pipe inspection device for inspecting the inside of a pipe through which a fluid flows, An inspection unit support structure including an inspection unit including a camera that photographs at least the inside of the pipe and an inspection unit support part that supports the inspection unit; a container capsule having a cylindrical container portion for accommodating the inspection unit support structure and moving with the flow of the fluid in the pipe; The inspection unit has a camera support part that supports the camera, an illumination part that illuminates the surroundings, and a connection part that connects to the inspection unit support structure, the inspection unit support structure includes a base portion placed on a bottom portion of the accommodation portion, and an inspection unit support portion that supports the inspection unit by connecting to the connecting portion of the inspection unit on the base portion, The shape of the bottom of the base portion is a curved surface that contacts the inner surface of the containing portion of the containing capsule, The base portion is not fixed to an inner surface of the containing capsule when the base portion is contained in the containing capsule. A pipe inspection device characterized by the above.

2. The housing portion is formed with an opening through which the inspection portion support structure can be inserted and removed, The container capsule further has a lid removably attached to the opening.

2. The pipe internal inspection device according to claim 1 .

3. 3. The pipe internal inspection device according to claim 1, wherein a tapered portion is formed at a front end portion of the containing capsule, the width of which narrows toward the front.

4. An internal pipe inspection device as described in any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that the base portion is provided with a weight receiving portion capable of receiving a weight.

5. An inspection unit support structure for supporting an inspection unit including a camera for photographing at least the inside of a pipe, the inspection unit being located in a containment capsule having a cylindrical container portion and moving with the flow of the fluid in the pipe through which the fluid flows, the inspection unit being located in the container portion, the inspection unit including the camera for photographing at least the inside of the pipe, A base portion placed on a bottom of the storage portion; an inspection unit support portion that supports the inspection unit on the base portion, The shape of the bottom of the base portion is a curved surface that contacts the inner surface of the containing portion of the containing capsule, The base portion is not fixed to an inner surface of the containing capsule when the base portion is contained in the containing capsule. An inspection unit support structure comprising:

6. An inspection assembly having a cylindrical housing portion and housed in a housing portion of a housing capsule that moves with the flow of a fluid in a pipe through which the fluid flows, An inspection unit including a camera that photographs at least the inside of the pipe; An inspection unit support structure including an inspection unit support part that supports the inspection unit, the inspection unit support structure includes a base portion placed on a bottom of the accommodation portion and an inspection unit support portion that supports the inspection unit on the base portion, The shape of the bottom of the base portion is a curved surface that contacts the inner surface of the containing portion of the containing capsule, The base portion is not fixed to an inner surface of the containing capsule when the base portion is contained in the containing capsule.

13. An inspection assembly comprising:

Images