Dual Slider Mechanism for Perpendicular Probe Deployment in Pipes
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Solution Overview
Problem
In-pipe inspections and maintenance tasks face challenges due to the difficulty in reliably deploying sensor probes and tool heads perpendicular to the pipe walls, especially with varying pipe diameters and interior obstacles, using robotic systems.
Innovation Solution
An in-pipe apparatus with a passive centering mechanism and dual slider mechanism for radial and longitudinal deployment of probes or tools, utilizing a rotational deployment mechanism, linear actuators, and springs to ensure consistent and reliable deployment across different pipe sizes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Extent of automation
If robotic systems are used for in-pipe inspections and maintenance, then automation and operational efficiency are improved, but the ability to reliably deploy probes and tools perpendicular to pipe walls deteriorates due to varying pipe diameters and interior obstacles
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a dynamic deployment mechanism that can adapt its orientation and positioning in response to varying pipe diameters and encountered obstacles. The system includes adjustable arms and mounting structures that can change their configuration to maintain perpendicular deployment of probes and tools regardless of pipe geometry variations, thus preserving reliability while maintaining automation.
Solution Approach 2:
The system utilizes parameter changes by adjusting key geometric parameters of the deployment mechanism such as arm length, mounting angle, and positioning coordinates. These parameters are dynamically modified based on real-time feedback about pipe diameter and obstacle location, enabling the automated system to maintain reliable perpendicular deployment across diverse pipe conditions.
2Ease of operation
If robotic systems are used to perform maintenance tasks in limited space, then operational flexibility is improved, but the precision and consistency of probe deployment deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent designs a universal deployment mechanism that can perform multiple functions including probe mounting, positioning, and deployment at various locations within the pipe. The system incorporates adjustable fixtures and reconfigurable tool holders that maintain precise perpendicular alignment regardless of the specific probe type or deployment location, thus preserving precision while enhancing operational flexibility.
Solution Approach 2:
The system replaces manual mechanical alignment procedures with automated positioning mechanisms that use sensors, actuators, and control systems to achieve and maintain precise perpendicular deployment. This substitution of mechanical manual operations with automated control preserves precision while significantly improving ease of operation in confined pipe spaces.
3Device complexity
If standard deployment mechanisms are used, then device simplicity is maintained, but the ability to handle varying pipe schedules and sizes deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the deployment mechanism into modular segmented components that can be independently adjusted and configured. The system includes separate positioning modules, mounting fixtures, and tool holders that can be individually adapted to different pipe diameters and schedules. This segmentation maintains overall system simplicity while enabling versatile adaptation to various pipe specifications.
Solution Approach 2:
The deployment mechanism incorporates dynamic adjustable elements such as telescopic arms, variable-angle mounts, and reconfigurable fixtures that can adapt their configuration to match different pipe sizes and schedules. These dynamic components allow the relatively simple overall system structure to achieve high adaptability across varying pipe specifications.
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
The apparatus ensures proper and consistent deployment of probes or tools perpendicularly to the pipe walls, maintaining alignment with the pipe axis during longitudinal deployment, even with varying diameters, enhancing the reliability of in-pipe inspections and maintenance tasks.
Implementation Method 1
the spring exerts a desired amount of outward force on the probe or tool in the radial direction against the target point
Implementation Method 2
a passive centering mechanism to passively align the axis of rotation with the axis of the pipe
Data Source
AI summary
An apparatus for automated inspection or maintenance is provided. The apparatus includes a dual slider mechanism for deploying a probe. The dual slider mechanism comprises: a frame; a probe slider configured to attach the probe; a probe linear guide coupled to the frame and configured to guide the probe slider and attached probe in a linear direction; a spring having one end attached to the probe slider; a spring slider attached to another end of the spring; and a spring linear guide coupled to the frame and configured to guide the spring slider and attached spring in the linear direction, in order to guide the probe slider and attached probe in the linear direction along the probe linear guide using the guided spring.