Camera Inspection Feed Unit With Pipe Clamping and Motorized Rod Drive
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing camera inspection systems face challenges such as manual operation causing physical strain, limited range due to operator force, need for multiple operators, looping of rigid rods in complex pipe structures, and inaccuracies in positioning, especially in sewers and pipes.
Innovation Solution
A feed unit with a clamping device that fixes directly to pipe openings, using motor-driven clamping jaws with protective pads and friction wheels to advance/retract the rod element, allowing single-operator operation and precise positioning, and incorporating an advance sensor for measurement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If manual operation is used to advance the rod element, then the system structure remains simple, but operator physical strain increases and the advancement range is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the manual mechanical operation with an electric motor that drives the rod element through a drive wheel. The motor is connected to the drive wheel, which engages with the rod element to advance it into the pipe, eliminating the need for manual pushing while keeping the overall system structure relatively simple.
Solution Approach 2:
The feed unit is designed to be self-positioning through the clamping device that automatically engages with the pipe opening. Once the rod element is inserted, the clamping device secures the feed unit in place without requiring additional manual adjustment or complex positioning mechanisms.
2Measurement precision
If a rigid rod element is used for advancement, then positioning force is sufficient, but loops form in complex pipe structures leading to positioning inaccuracies
Solution Approach 1:
The rod element is divided into multiple segmented sections that can articulate relative to each other. This segmentation allows the rod to bend and adapt to complex pipe geometries while maintaining the ability to push the camera forward with sufficient force. The segments connect through joints that allow bending while preserving the driven motion from the motor.
3Length of moving object
If the rod element is advanced further to increase inspection range, then more of the pipe can be inspected, but the force required to push through loops exceeds feed unit capability
Solution Approach 1:
The manual mechanical pushing action is replaced with a motorized drive system that provides sustained and controllable force. The motor can maintain adequate feed force over extended periods and distances, enabling the rod element to be advanced much farther than would be possible with manual operation, thereby increasing the inspection range.
4Productivity
If manual positioning is used, then only one operator is needed for simple tasks, but two operators are required for sewer and pipe inspection
Solution Approach 1:
The motorized feed unit eliminates the need for one operator to manually handle the rod element advancement. A single operator can now control both the motorized feed unit and the inspection camera from a control station, reducing the required staff from two operators to one while increasing operational complexity through the need to manage automated systems.
Solution Approach 2:
A control station serves as an intermediary between the operator and the inspection system components. The control station provides centralized control of the motorized feed unit and camera, allowing one operator to manage both functions without direct manual handling of the rod element, thereby reducing personnel requirements.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Reduces operator strain, enables single-operator use, enhances positioning accuracy, and allows for greater range with increased feed forces, providing reliable data for pipe inspection and repair planning.
Implementation Method 1
two motor-driven friction wheels (13, 14), which are arranged opposite one another and engage frictionally on the outer sides of the rod element (02)
Implementation Method 2
two clamping jaws (05, 06), each of which is provided with two internal and two external protective supports (07, 08, 09, 10)
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3
AI summary
The invention relates to a feed unit (01) for a camera inspection system with a flexible rod element (02), wherein the rod element (02) can be advanced and/or retracted, and wherein an inspection camera can be coupled to the free end of the rod element (02), wherein a clamping device (03) is provided on the feed unit (01) with which the feed unit (01) can be fixed to a pipe opening (04).