Live Fluid Pipe Mapping Probe for 90° Entry and Small Diameters
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Current technologies are inadequate for accurately mapping and inspecting underground pipelines, particularly live fluid pipelines, especially those smaller than 6 inches in diameter, due to challenges in data verification, interference from soil conditions and electromagnetic sources, and the need for expensive equipment.
Innovation Solution
A sensor payload with inertial navigation and odometer functionality is used to collect high-resolution 3D geospatial data in live fluid pipes, capable of entering at a 90-degree angle and navigating bi-directionally through small diameters, while being resistant to electromagnetic interference and fluid flow, using a guide shoe and tether for propulsion.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If in-line robots or pigs are used for pipeline mapping, then mapping capability is improved, but device complexity and equipment cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system divides the mapping function into two separate components: a simple sensor payload for data collection and an external odometer system for positioning. This segmentation allows the sensor payload to remain small and simple while achieving accurate mapping through integration with the separate odometer system.
Solution Approach 2:
The sensor payload is designed to be universal and adaptable, capable of operating in pipelines of various sizes (including small diameter pipes less than 6 inches) and serving multiple functions such as collecting sensor data, tracking position, and mapping pipeline features without requiring complex specialized equipment.
2Measurement precision
If in-line robots or pigs are used for pipeline mapping, then mapping capability is improved, but equipment cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
By segmenting the system into a simple sensor payload and a separate odometer system, each component can be manufactured independently using simpler, more cost-effective methods. The sensor payload does not require expensive launching and retrieving equipment, significantly reducing overall system cost.
Solution Approach 2:
The sensor payload is designed as a simple, potentially disposable device that can be inserted into the pipeline, perform its mapping function, and be retrieved or discarded. This eliminates the need for expensive, complex in-line robots that require significant infrastructure for deployment and recovery.
3Ease of manufacture
If surface mapping methods are used, then equipment cost is reduced, but data verification capability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The sensor payload acts as an intermediary that travels through the pipeline itself, carrying sensing capabilities directly to the pipeline interior. This allows verification of pipeline conditions from within the pipe, confirming that the mapped conduit is the actual asset while maintaining relatively simple equipment requirements.
Solution Approach 2:
The system replaces complex mechanical verification methods with sensor-based detection and odometer tracking. The sensor payload collects data and tracks its position through inertial navigation and odometer measurements, providing verification capability through electronic sensing rather than complex mechanical systems.
4Ease of operation
If 45-degree entry angle is used, then entry capability is improved, but bi-directional travel capability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The system employs an asymmetric 90-degree entry angle that creates different operational characteristics for entry versus travel. The right angle provides stable entry into the pipeline while the sensor payload's design allows it to transition to bi-directional travel capability, accommodating both entry requirements and subsequent mapping needs.
Solution Approach 2:
The sensor payload is designed with dynamic adaptability, allowing it to change its operational mode after entry. Following the 90-degree entry, the device can transition to travel in both directions along the pipeline, adapting its behavior based on the mapping requirements rather than being constrained to a single entry angle for all operations.
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 mapping and inspection of small-diameter live fluid pipes without disrupting service, reducing excavation risks and costs, and providing high-resolution data with reduced electromagnetic interference.
Implementation Method 1
The sensor probe is provided to enter small diameter (down to 2-inch (5.08 cm) diameter) pipe at a vertical angle, and once inside the pipe make a 90° angle change of direction into the live-fluid pipe
Implementation Method 2
The sensor payload can provide highly accurate trajectories of pipeline assets without interrupting service to downstream customers
Data Source
Figure 1
AI summary
System for mapping and/or inspecting an underground pipeline infrastructure and method thereof, comprising: a sensor probe (106) for collecting geospatial data while travelling through a pipeline of the pipeline infrastructure, and a driving mechanism (105) comprising a tether (104), for driving the sensor probe, wherein the sensor probe (106) is provided to enter the pipeline at a vertical angle through a live-fluid entry apparatus (108) and once inside the pipeline make a 90° angle change of direction to align with the orientation of the pipeline.