Live Pipe Sensor Probe Entry for Small-Diameter 3D Mapping
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current pipeline inspection and mapping technologies are inadequate for underground live fluid pipes, particularly those with diameters less than 6 inches, as they lack accuracy and often require interrupting service, and existing solutions are not designed for 'live' pipelines in use, leading to inefficiencies and risks during construction.
Innovation Solution
A system and method utilizing a sensor payload with inertial navigation and MEMS sensors for high-resolution 3D geospatial data collection, capable of entering small diameter pipes at a 90° angle, allowing bi-directional travel without interrupting service, and equipped with an odometer and tether for accurate data collection and propulsion, including features like electromagnetic interference shielding and two-way data transmission.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If surface mapping methods are used, then location data can be collected, but accuracy is insufficient and verification of actual asset location is lacking
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces surface-level mechanical mapping methods with an in-line sensor system that travels through the pipeline itself. The sensor payload uses inertial navigation and odometer data to internally map the pipeline, providing direct measurement of asset locations from within the conduit rather than inferring from surface positions.
Solution Approach 2:
The sensor payload acts as an intermediary device that travels through the pipeline to collect location data. It serves as a mediator between the pipeline infrastructure and the mapping system, carrying sensors and navigation equipment internally to achieve precise location verification without surface intervention.
2Measurement precision
If in-line robots or pigs are used for mapping, then internal pipeline data can be collected, but they require pipes greater than 6 inches in diameter and expensive launching equipment
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the size parameter of the mapping device by using a compact sensor payload that fits within small diameter pipes (2-6 inches). This represents a significant reduction from traditional in-line robots, enabling deployment in previously inaccessible small utility lines through standard access points.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent extracts the essential mapping functions from complex in-line robots and pigs, retaining only the critical sensors and navigation components needed for location data collection. This simplified approach eliminates the need for expensive launching and retrieving equipment while maintaining internal data collection capabilities.
3Ease of operation
If traditional entry angles of 45° are used, then entry into pipe is possible, but bi-directional travel is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses a 90-degree entry angle that creates asymmetric entry geometry, allowing the sensor payload to enter vertically and then transition to horizontal travel. This asymmetric approach enables the device to access the pipeline from above and travel in both directions along the pipe, improving versatility compared to traditional 45-degree entries.
4Measurement precision
If pipeline inspection is performed on out-of-service pipelines, then thorough inspection is possible, but service interruption occurs
Solution Approach 1:
The patent enables continuous pipeline service during inspection by deploying the sensor payload through the flowing fluid. The inspection process occurs without interrupting the useful action of fluid transport, allowing data collection while the pipeline remains operational and customers remain served.
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 highly accurate and efficient mapping and inspection of small diameter live fluid pipes, reducing risks and costs by providing high-resolution data without service interruption, and improving threat detection and asset verification.
Implementation Method 1
inertial navigation sensor payload
Implementation Method 2
MEMS sensors
Implementation Method 3
odometer data collection
Data Source
AI summary
Method and system for mapping and/or inspecting an underground pipeline infrastructure, using: a sensor probe for collecting geospatial data while travelling through a pipeline of the pipeline infrastructure, and a driving mechanism comprising a tether, for driving the sensor probe, wherein the sensor probe is provided to enter the pipeline at a vertical angle through a live-fluid entry apparatus and once inside the pipeline make a 90° angle change of direction to align with the orientation of the pipeline.