Modular Pipeline Inspection Tool for Tight Bends
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current pipeline inspection tools face challenges in inspecting small diameter pipes with sharp bends, multiple diameters, and complex geometries, leading to incomplete data collection and increased maintenance costs due to limited maneuverability and adaptability.
Innovation Solution
A modular, free-floating in-line inspection tool with a static probe head for full coverage, capable of navigating through tight bends and varying diameters, equipped with on-board data storage for high-resolution ultrasonic wall thickness and crack detection, and bi-directional operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Volume of moving object
If traditional inspection tools are used in small diameter pipes, then the tool structure becomes too large to fit, but using smaller tools reduces measurement precision and inspection capabilities
Solution Approach 1:
The inspection tool is divided into multiple modular segments that can flexibly connect and disconnect. Each segment contains specific inspection functions, allowing the tool to be configured in different lengths and capacities to match various pipe diameters while maintaining full inspection capabilities.
Solution Approach 2:
The tool employs flexible connecting elements between segments that allow dynamic adjustment of the tool's configuration. This enables the inspection system to adapt its structure to different pipe diameters and maintain measurement precision regardless of the reduced overall tool size.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the inspection tool is made rigid for stable measurements, then it cannot navigate through sharp bends and complex geometries, but making it flexible reduces measurement stability
Solution Approach 1:
The tool is segmented into multiple rigid sections connected by flexible joints. Each rigid segment maintains measurement stability, while the flexible connections between segments enable the tool to navigate sharp bends and complex pipe geometries.
Solution Approach 2:
Flexible connecting elements with controlled stiffness are used between rigid segments. These elements can bend to navigate tight curves while maintaining sufficient rigidity to support the inspection measurements and maintain stability.
3Device complexity
If the tool is designed for single-direction inspection, then the structure is simpler, but bi-directional operation is required for single-access pipelines
Solution Approach 1:
The inspection tool is designed with symmetric propulsion mechanisms and bidirectional sensing capabilities, allowing it to operate effectively in both forward and reverse directions. This multi-functionality enables the tool to inspect single-access pipelines without requiring additional equipment.
Solution Approach 2:
The tool employs dynamically adjustable propulsion systems that can switch drive directions. The flexible connecting elements also allow the tool to adapt its configuration when moving in opposite directions through complex pipe geometries.
4Measurement precision
If high-resolution sensors are used, then inspection accuracy improves, but the tool size and complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
High-resolution sensors are integrated into the modular segments, providing comprehensive inspection capabilities across all segments. The same sensor technology serves multiple inspection functions, reducing overall complexity while maintaining high measurement precision.
Solution Approach 2:
Advanced sensor technologies and electronic systems replace complex mechanical inspection mechanisms. This substitution enables high-resolution measurements with simpler and more compact tool structures.
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 tool provides comprehensive, high-resolution data for pipeline integrity assessment, reducing maintenance disruptions and enabling efficient inspection of previously 'unpiggable' pipelines, with improved accuracy and speed, and supports both immediate and future integrity management.
Implementation Method 1
capable of navigating through tight bends and varying diameters, equipped with on-board data storage for high-resolution ultrasonic wall thickness and crack detection
Data Source
AI summary
A tool, method, and system for in-line inspection or treatment of a pipeline, with the tool including a first traction module on a first longitudinal end, and a second traction module on a second end. The tool includes at least one work module, such as an encoder module and/or an ultrasonic testing module, which is positioned between the first and second traction modules. A plurality of flexible connecting elements each interconnect one of the first and second traction modules for articulation to the at least one work module. Each of the first and second traction modules has at least one sealing element that causes propulsion in response to a fluid flow in a pipeline to be inspected or treated in one direction and allows relatively unhindered passing of the fluid flow in an opposite direction.