Deflecting Device for Sewer Inspection Using Shape Memory Traction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing sewer inspection and maintenance systems face challenges in efficiently deflecting into side channels without obstructing the camera view or mobility, and tools like milling devices struggle to reach processing points due to protruding guide or steering devices.
Innovation Solution
A deflection device with a traction mechanism and flexible fastening system, utilizing shape memory materials and a rotation device, allows for deflection into side channels without protruding guide devices, enabling the tool to be directed in any direction while maintaining functionality.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If guide or steering devices protrude beyond the camera contour to enable deflection into side channels, then the deflection capability is improved, but the camera view is obstructed and inspection quality deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the deflection function from the front end of the inspection system by using a push-off device that acts on the side wall of the side channel rather than requiring protruding guide devices at the front. This allows the camera to maintain its forward-facing position without obstruction while still enabling deflection into side channels through the action of the push-off device on the side wall.
2Adaptability or versatility
If guide or steering devices protrude beyond the camera contour to enable deflection, then the deflection capability is improved, but the mobility of the camera head deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The deflection function is extracted from the camera head itself and implemented through a separate push-off device that acts on the side wall. This separation allows the camera head to remain mobile and maneuverable while the push-off device provides the deflection capability through its interaction with the side channel wall.
3Adaptability or versatility
If guide or steering devices protrude beyond the tool contour to enable deflection, then the deflection capability is improved, but the tool cannot reach the processing point
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the deflection function from the tool itself and implements it through a push-off device that acts on the side wall of the side channel. This allows the tool to maintain its full length and reach the processing point without being shortened or obstructed by protruding guide or steering devices.
4Reliability
If a rotation device is added to enable synchronous rotation of the working medium and traction means, then the winding of the traction means is prevented, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the rotation function with the existing push-off device structure. The rotation device is integrated into the push-off device assembly, allowing synchronous rotation of the working medium and traction means to be achieved without adding a completely separate rotation mechanism. This merging approach prevents winding of the traction means while minimizing the increase in overall device complexity.
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 seamless and efficient deflection into side channels without obstructing the camera view or affecting tool mobility, allowing for effective inspection and maintenance without the need for external guide devices, and supports heavy work equipment with high restoring forces.
Implementation Method 1
the traction means (20) has a shape memory material, at least in sections (21) between its front end (20a) and its rear end (20b). The sections (21) of the traction means (20) which have the shape memory material change, preferably reduce, their length as a function of at least one influencing variable
Implementation Method 2
an electric current can be fed into the shape memory material or can be conducted through the shape memory material
Data Source
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AI summary
A deflection device (1) is provided for deflecting a working tool (10) of an inspection and/or maintenance system, the deflection device comprising: - a traction element (20) with a front and a rear end, - a flexible fastening device (30) with a front and a rear end, wherein - the working tool (10) or a working tool carrier (11) can be arranged at the front end (30a) of the fastening device (30), - a fastening element (40) is arranged at the rear end (30b) of the fastening device (30), - the front end (20a) of the traction element (20) can be coupled to the working tool (10) or working tool carrier (11), and - the rear end (20b) of the traction element (20) is coupled to the fastening element (40), wherein shortening the traction element (20) deflects the front end (30a) of the fastening device. (30) from a neutral position.The traction element may contain a shape memory material, at least in sections.