Coaxial Tube Cleaning Head with Integrated Camera
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing pipe inspection and cleaning devices require multiple operations and increased time to switch between cleaning and inspection modes, and face challenges in navigating through pipe branches and kinks due to the need for separate control lines and cables.
Innovation Solution
A device with a coaxial line connection between the cleaning head and high-pressure hose, allowing for simultaneous cleaning and inspection, and featuring rotatable and controllable nozzles for navigation, along with a position sensor and energy supply via the coaxial cable, enabling efficient operation and documentation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a separate control line is used for camera operation, then the camera can be operated independently, but the device complexity increases and the line may get damaged or tangled in the pipe
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the control line and high-pressure hose into a single integrated coaxial cable structure. The inner conductor serves as the control line for camera operation, while the outer conductor and braided jacket form the high-pressure hose, eliminating the need for separate control lines and preventing tangling or damage issues
Solution Approach 2:
The coaxial cable structure performs multiple functions simultaneously: it transmits control signals for the camera, supplies high-pressure water for cleaning, and provides mechanical protection. This multi-functional design reduces overall system complexity while improving reliability
2Productivity
If cleaning and inspection are performed in separate operations, then each function can be optimized, but the total time required doubles
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the cleaning head and camera into a single integrated device that performs both cleaning and inspection functions simultaneously. The cleaning head with nozzles and the camera are combined in one unit, allowing both operations to occur during a single pipe insertion without requiring withdrawal and reinsertion
Solution Approach 2:
The device enables continuous operation where cleaning and inspection occur in the same pass through the pipe. The cleaning function operates continuously during insertion, and the camera captures images throughout the process, eliminating idle time between operations
3Ease of operation
If cables are glued to the high-pressure hose to operate the camera, then the camera can be powered and controlled, but obstacles are created when driving into the pipe
Solution Approach 1:
The control cable and high-pressure hose are merged into a single coaxial cable structure from the outset, eliminating the need to glue cables to the hose. This integrated design removes obstacles during insertion while maintaining full camera control capability through the inner conductor
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
Enables efficient one-operation cleaning and inspection, reduces time and complexity, and allows for real-time residue removal, improved navigation through pipe branches, and secure energy supply, enhancing operational reliability and versatility.
Implementation Method 1
a high-pressure hose (2), via which the cleaning head (1) is supplied with cleaning liquid, in particular water
Implementation Method 2
A coaxial line connection is provided between the cleaning head and the opposite end of the high-pressure hose, the outer conductor being formed by the braided jacket and an inner conductor being provided inside the high-pressure hose
Implementation Method 3
The cleaning head has one or more cleaning nozzles that can be selectively controlled and switched
Implementation Method 4
The cleaning head has one or more control nozzles which are arranged on the circumference and can be selectively controlled and switched
Implementation Method 5
a position sensor, for example a gravitational sensor, can also be provided
Implementation Method 6
with an incremental encoder on the reel for the cleaning hose, the run-in length and thus the length position in the pipe can be recorded
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3~4
AI summary
The device has a cleaning head (1) which is additionally equipped with a camera, where the cleaning head and camera are arranged at an end of a high-pressure hose (2). A coaxial cable connection is provided between the cleaning head and averted end of the high-pressure hose.