Universal Impedance Probe for Liner Side-Connection Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for rehabilitating sewer and water pipelines struggle to accurately locate side connections within thermoplastic or thermosetting liners, relying on pre-installation surveys that often provide only approximate locations, making it difficult to precisely engage the liner for re-establishing connections.
Innovation Solution
A robotic conduit survey apparatus utilizing a near-field microwave imaging technique with an open-ended rectangular waveguide is positioned within the conduit to detect side connections by transmitting RF signals and analyzing changes in electromagnetic properties, allowing for precise location and marking of connection points for subsequent cutting or drilling.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If pre-installation survey methods are used to locate side connections, then the process is simple and quick, but the location accuracy is insufficient to pin-point the exact location for blade engagement
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical measurement and visual inspection methods with electromagnetic wave-based detection. A robotic platform equipped with microwave or RF waveguides transmits electromagnetic signals through the liner material to detect changes in electromagnetic properties caused by side connections, eliminating the need for complex mechanical measurement systems while achieving precise location data.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces electromagnetic waves as an intermediary to detect side connections. The electromagnetic waves penetrate the liner material and interact with the side connections, providing a non-contact measurement method that achieves high precision without requiring direct physical contact or complex mechanical survey equipment.
2Productivity
If approximate location data from pre-installation survey is used, then the survey process is fast and simple, but it causes time loss and inefficiency during the actual connection re-establishment process
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs preliminary electromagnetic wave-based detection during the liner installation process or immediately afterward, before the reconnection work begins. This preliminary survey action captures precise location data of side connections, eliminating the need for time-consuming field surveys during the reconnection operation and enabling immediate accurate engagement.
3Manufacturing precision
If traditional cutting methods are used without precise location data, then the operation is simple, but it results in inaccurate cutting positions and potential damage to the liner or surrounding structures
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs electromagnetic wave-based detection to provide real-time feedback on the precise location of side connections and liner characteristics. This feedback information is used to guide the cutting operation, ensuring accurate positioning while preventing damage to the liner or surrounding structures, thereby improving manufacturing precision without requiring overly complex manual positioning systems.
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 accurate and efficient re-establishment of side connections by providing precise location data for cutting or drilling through the liner, improving the accuracy and efficiency of pipeline rehabilitation processes.
Implementation Method 1
a near-field microwave imaging technique that employs an open-ended rectangular waveguide
Implementation Method 2
transmitting RF signals and analyzing changes in electromagnetic properties
Data Source
AI summary
A conduit survey apparatus having a carriage capable of movement axially down a conduit. The carrier includes a radio frequency (RF) signal generator and an RF signal detector positioned on the carriage along with a controller controlling the signal generator and signal detector. The carrier further includes a waveguide with an open throat transmitting signals from the signal generator and directing received signals to the signal detector. Finally, the carrier includes a waveguide positioner mounted on the carrier and adapted to selectively engage an interior wall of the conduit, wherein the waveguide guide is connected to the positioner such that the open throat of the waveguide is within about 1 inch of the interior wall when the positioner engages the interior wall.