Pipe Inspection Camera Head Orientation and Storage Optimization
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional video pipe inspection systems provide disoriented images due to uncontrolled push-cable torque and navigation through bends, offer limited image resolution, and inefficient image capture and storage, particularly when navigating tight turns and varying pipe diameters.
Innovation Solution
A pipe inspection system with a camera head connected to a push-cable that includes an image sensor and processing circuitry for automatic image capture at predetermined distances, directional sensing, and variable frame rate motion JPEG video to optimize image fidelity and storage, incorporating user-defined overlays and improved data transmission through the existing video signal conductors.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Length of stationary object
If a semi-rigid push-cable is used to force the camera head down the pipe, then the cable can be pushed hundreds of feet, but the cable creates uncontrolled torque that orients the camera incorrectly around bends
Solution Approach 1:
The camera head incorporates a dynamic orientation system with movable lenses and mirrors that can adjust in real-time. The orientation control mechanism allows the camera to dynamically reorient itself around bends in the pipe, compensating for the uncontrolled torque from the push-cable and maintaining proper imaging orientation throughout the inspection.
2Productivity
If conventional video recording is used, then images can be captured continuously, but the storage capacity is limited and file sizes are large
Solution Approach 1:
The system implements selective image capture by taking pictures at specific intervals and only when significant features or defects are detected, rather than continuous recording. This partial action approach dramatically reduces the total number of images stored while still capturing all essential inspection data, optimizing storage utilization.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs variable resolution imaging where the camera captures high-resolution images only when defects or significant features are detected, and lower-resolution images during normal inspection segments. This parameter change in image quality based on inspection needs reduces overall storage requirements while maintaining diagnostic capability.
3Volume of moving object
If the camera head is made compact to navigate tight turns, then the camera can fit in small diameter pipe, but the image sensor and processing circuitry space is constrained
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates multiple functions into the compact camera head by combining the image sensor, processing circuitry, orientation control mechanisms, and lighting elements into a single unified housing. This merging of components allows the camera head to maintain a small volume for navigating tight turns while still incorporating all necessary subsystems for high-quality image capture and processing.
Solution Approach 2:
The camera head employs a nested arrangement where smaller components are housed within larger ones. The image sensor is positioned within a protected chamber, with lighting elements arranged around the optical path, and processing circuitry integrated into the housing structure. This nesting allows maximum functionality within minimum volume.
Data Source
AI summary
Pipe inspection systems are disclosed. In one embodiment a pipe inspection system includes a camera head, a push-cable, a cable storage drum, and a wireless transmitter configured to automatically capture images or video frames and transmit them to an external device.