Multi-Camera Pipe Inspection Array for Wide-Angle Imaging
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current pipe inspection systems are limited in providing sufficient imaging and data coverage, especially in wide fields of view, and struggle to effectively visualize the interior of pipes due to mechanical, structural, and environmental obstructions.
Innovation Solution
A multi-camera system with an array of imaging elements and overlapping fields of view, coupled with LEDs for illumination, is used to capture and process images, allowing for automatic or manual control and generating 3D views of pipe interiors. This system includes a camera head assembly with electronic circuits for signal processing and communication, and a push-cable with a camera control unit for displaying and storing inspection data.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Area of stationary object
If a single imaging element is used in the pipe inspection system, then the device complexity is reduced, but the imaging coverage and field of view are insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The imaging system is divided into multiple imaging elements (first imaging element, second imaging element, third imaging element) arranged in an array. Each imaging element captures a portion of the pipe interior, and their combined fields of view provide comprehensive coverage of the entire cross-section, resolving the limitation of single-element systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from a single-point imaging approach to a multi-element array configuration, adding spatial dimensionality to the imaging system. This allows simultaneous capture of multiple regions within the pipe cross-section, effectively expanding the imaging coverage area.
2Loss of information
If multiple imaging elements with overlapping fields of view are used, then the imaging coverage is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines images from multiple imaging elements through image processing to generate a composite representation of the pipe interior. This merging process integrates data from all imaging elements, ensuring complete coverage without gaps while managing the complexity through systematic image combination techniques.
3Illumination intensity
If LEDs are added for illumination in dimly lit areas, then the imaging quality is improved, but the device complexity and heat generation increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs multiple LEDs positioned around the imaging elements, providing localized illumination for each imaging zone. This distributed lighting approach ensures adequate illumination intensity in dimly lit pipe areas while distributing heat generation across multiple components rather than concentrating it in a single source.
4Measurement precision
If image processing is performed to generate 3D views, then the diagnostic capability is improved, but the processing time and computational requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs image processing operations including generating 3D views and composite images as part of the inspection workflow. By systematically processing images from multiple imaging elements to create comprehensive representations, the system enhances diagnostic capability while managing processing time through structured image combination methods.
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 system provides comprehensive and detailed imaging of pipe interiors, enabling effective inspection and diagnosis by overcoming the limitations of single-camera systems, with improved data coverage and the ability to generate 3D models of pipe structures.
Implementation Method 1
The camera head may include one or more light source elements, such as LEDs for providing illumination in dimly lit inspection sites
Data Source
AI summary
Camera heads including multiple imaging elements with overlapping Fields of View (FOV) for inspecting pipes or cavities are disclosed.