Nozzle-Mounted Camera Module for Multi-Size Pipe Inspection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current pipe inspection methods, such as using pipe crawlers, are inconvenient, time-consuming, and limited by pipe size and configuration, often requiring separate inspections and cleaning operations, leading to inefficiencies and increased costs.
Innovation Solution
A nozzle-mounted camera system with interchangeable sleds of different diameters and a self-leveling mechanism, allowing toolless configuration and operation, which includes a camera module with a housing, optical axis, battery, and wireless transmission capabilities, enabling efficient inspection of various pipe sizes without the need for specialized setup or tools.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If pipe crawlers or push cameras are used for inspection, then detailed images can be obtained, but the inspection process becomes time-consuming and requires specialized setup
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces complex mechanical inspection systems (pipe crawlers, push cameras requiring tripods and specialized setup) with a simplified nozzle-mounted camera system that integrates the camera directly into the cleaning nozzle assembly, eliminating the need for separate mechanical inspection equipment and setup procedures
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges the inspection function with the cleaning function by integrating the camera module into the nozzle assembly, allowing both cleaning and inspection operations to be performed simultaneously by the same equipment rather than requiring separate devices
2Measurement precision
If pipe crawlers are used for inspection, then detailed imaging is achieved, but the device is limited by pipe size and configuration
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a universal inspection system where the camera module can be mounted on nozzles of various sizes, allowing the same camera module to inspect pipes of different diameters and configurations by simply changing the nozzle attachment rather than requiring specialized equipment for each pipe size
Solution Approach 2:
The patent divides the inspection system into separable components (camera module, nozzle, mounting mechanism) that can be independently selected and combined, allowing the camera module to be paired with different nozzle sizes to adapt to various pipe configurations
3Measurement precision
If separate inspection and cleaning operations are performed, then thorough inspection is conducted, but the process requires multiple personnel and repeated operations
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines inspection and cleaning operations into a single integrated process where the camera module is mounted on the cleaning nozzle, allowing one operator to simultaneously perform both inspection and cleaning tasks rather than requiring separate inspection and cleaning crews
Solution Approach 2:
The patent enables continuous inspection throughout the cleaning process by maintaining the camera module in position on the nozzle, allowing real-time monitoring of pipe conditions during cleaning operations rather than requiring separate pre and post-cleaning inspections
Data Source
AI summary
An inspection system comprising (a) one or more sleds, each sled comprising (i) three or more rails running lengthwise and defining a diameter and a central axis of said each sled, (ii) first and second mounts, (iii) a nozzle comprising an interface configured for connection to a hose, and (iv) one or more jets configured for communicating fluid from said hose outward; (c) a camera module comprising (i) a housing, (ii) a camera having an optical axis, (iii) one or more lights; (iv) at least one battery, (v) memory operatively connected to said camera for recording images from said camera; and (vi) front and rear members for interengaging with said first and second mounts, respectively, such that at least one of said front or rear members urges against said first or second mounts to secure said camera module to said each sled such that said optical axis is essentially coincident with said central axis.