Modular Sewer Inspection Apparatus with Interchangeable Sensors
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Solution Overview
Problem
The inspection and measurement of sewer/utility structures are complicated by the dangers of confined space entry and visual obstructions, leading to poor data quality and inaccuracies due to the variety of styles and configurations of these structures.
Innovation Solution
A modular inspection apparatus with an elongated body and protruding gauges that can be mounted on survey leveling rods, featuring a latch mechanism, hinge assembly, and interchangeable attachments like a laser, camera, and luminary for improved visibility and data collection, adaptable to various sewer configurations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If personnel enter sewer/utility structures for inspection, then direct visual inspection is possible, but safety risks and confined space dangers increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary inspection device that can be lowered into sewer structures via a winch system, allowing inspection without direct personnel entry. The device includes a camera, lighting, and measurement capabilities that transmit data to the surface, serving as a mediator between the inspector and the hazardous environment.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual mechanical inspection methods with automated electronic inspection systems. The device uses motors, sensors, and digital imaging to perform measurements and inspections that would otherwise require manual intervention, reducing human exposure to harmful environments.
2Device complexity
If traditional inspection methods are used in sewer structures, then simplicity is maintained, but visual obstructions and measurement inaccuracies increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple inspection functions into a single integrated device. The system merges camera imaging, lighting, measurement sensors, and communication capabilities into one unit that can be lowered into the sewer structure, providing comprehensive inspection data without requiring multiple separate equipment pieces.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from two-dimensional visual inspection to three-dimensional spatial measurement capabilities. The device incorporates depth sensors, distance measurement lasers, and positional tracking to provide volumetric and spatial data about the sewer structure, overcoming limitations of traditional flat visual inspection.
3Ease of operation
If standardized inspection equipment is used, then device simplicity is maintained, but adaptability to various sewer configurations decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent incorporates dynamic, adjustable components in the inspection device. The lighting system can be directed and adjusted, the camera angle is可调, and the measurement sensors can adapt to different distances and orientations, allowing the standardized device to accommodate various sewer configurations and geometries.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent designs a universal inspection platform that can function across multiple sewer types and configurations. The device includes interchangeable attachments, adjustable measurement ranges, and multiple sensing modalities that allow it to adapt to different pipe diameters, materials, and structural configurations without requiring device-specific customization.
Data Source
AI summary
An inspection apparatus configured to selectively couple to a receiver mount of a survey inspection assembly is disclosed. The inspection apparatus comprises an elongated body extending along a longitudinal axis from a proximal inspection portion to a distal inspection portion. The apparatus further comprises an inspection feature configured to slidably engage the longitudinal axis. The inspection feature is configured to extend a visual reference of at least one measurement reference disposed on the inspection apparatus.