Multipurpose Underground Tool for Camera-Guided Equipment Access
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Solution Overview
Problem
Accessing and operating underground equipment through confined spaces is difficult due to obstructions and misalignment of access pipes or boxes, leading to inefficiencies and additional costs.
Innovation Solution
A multipurpose underground tool that is compact, universal, and reconfigurable, equipped with a lighted camera, adjustable accessories, and a portable computer for remote viewing and control, allowing for clearing obstructions and operating equipment with one tool.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple long tools are carried to control different types of underground equipment, then each specific equipment can be operated, but the device complexity and portability are worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies universality by designing a single multi-functional tool that can control different types of underground equipment through interchangeable actuators. The tool includes a handle, pole, and actuator assembly that can be configured for various equipment types (valves, caps, plugs), eliminating the need to carry multiple specialized tools while maintaining the ability to operate diverse underground equipment
2Ease of operation
If access pipes or boxes are damaged or shifted, then underground equipment becomes inaccessible, but excavation is required which increases cost and time
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical excavation system with a camera-based visualization system. The camera system allows workers to see through damaged or shifted access pipes/boxes to locate and assess underground equipment, enabling navigation around obstructions and avoiding the need for time-consuming excavation while maintaining access to the equipment
3Productivity
If obstructions fall into access pipes or boxes, then underground work is interfered with, but cleaning trucks are required which add cost and delay
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces mechanical cleaning truck systems with a camera-based detection and evaluation system. The camera allows real-time visualization of obstructions within access pipes and boxes, enabling workers to assess the situation and plan appropriate clearing actions without requiring expensive and time-consuming cleaning truck interventions
4Loss of information
If a lighted camera and portable computer are integrated into the tool, then remote viewing capability is improved, but the weight and device complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies nesting by integrating the camera within the actuator assembly and the portable computer within the handle. This nested arrangement allows the visualization components to be incorporated into the existing tool structure without significantly increasing overall weight or complexity, while providing real-time imaging capability for observing underground conditions
Data Source
AI summary
A multipurpose underground tool may be compact, universal, multi-purpose and/or reconfigurable. A variety of underground equipment in a variety of conditions at a variety of depths with a variety of operating interfaces may be remotely viewed, cleared of obstructions and controlled with one tool that may be reduced in size. A portable computer (e.g., cell phone) may power a lighted camera, display images of underground conditions to assist a user with operations (e.g., clear obstructions, maneuver, steer, attach to and operate underground equipment) and/or provide a user interface. Accessories may be adjusted, added or removed to accomplish a variety of tasks in a variety of conditions. Integrated, detachable, fixed or adjustable accessories may include a display holder, an ejector, a retriever, a debris deflector, a debris collector, a pressure tank, a pressure hose, actuators and/or other pole tips (e.g., with one or more accessories), pole sections, handles and/or accessory controls.