Modular Lifting Unit for Pipe Inspection Systems
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing pipe inspection systems with lifting units are large, complex, expensive, and inflexible, making them unsuitable for smaller pipes and requiring multiple systems for varying pipe diameters.
Innovation Solution
A modular lifting unit with a base support, deflectable lifting arms, and a head unit for connecting inspection units, featuring a connection module with plug connections and a drive for the lifting arm, allowing for compact and versatile operation by routing connections to the head unit and accommodating additional modules.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a traditional pipe inspection system with carriage and lifting unit is used, then the inspection capability for large pipes is improved, but the system size and complexity increase, making it unsuitable for smaller pipes
Solution Approach 1:
The inspection system is divided into separate functional modules: a compact carriage for navigation, a detachable lifting unit with camera head, and interchangeable inspection units. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized independently and enables the system to be configured for different pipe sizes by selecting appropriate inspection units, thereby reducing overall system complexity while maintaining versatility.
Solution Approach 2:
The lifting unit incorporates a lifting arm with rotary axis that can be dynamically adjusted to raise the camera head above the carriage when needed. This dynamic adjustment capability allows the system to adapt its configuration based on inspection requirements, enabling it to handle both large and small pipes effectively without being locked into a fixed, complex structure.
2Adaptability or versatility
If connections are routed from the carriage to the lifting unit, then the lifting unit becomes more flexible and modular, but the connection complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The connection module at the lifting unit is designed with universal plug connections that can accommodate multiple types of inspection units (cameras, lighting systems, temperature sensors). This universal interface design simplifies the connection system by providing a standardized interface that handles both power supply and data transmission through integrated connectors, reducing connection complexity while maintaining high modular flexibility.
3Adaptability or versatility
If additional modules and accessories are added to enhance inspection capabilities, then the system becomes more versatile, but the device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The inspection system uses a nested modular architecture where inspection units (cameras, lighting, sensors) are attached to the lifting unit, which in turn connects to the carriage. Additional accessories and modules can be nested onto the head unit or lifting arm. This nesting approach allows versatile configuration by combining only the required modules for each specific inspection task, avoiding the need to carry all possible accessories simultaneously, thus managing device complexity effectively.
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to a lifting unit for pipe inspection systems for lifting a head unit, comprising a base carrier with a connection module for connection to a connection unit of a carriage, a lifting system with at least one lifting arm which can be deflected relative to the base carrier via a pivot axis, and a head unit with a connection module for connecting inspection units, in particular cameras and lighting systems, wherein connections of the carriage are at least partially led to the connection module of the head unit.