Offset Camera Retrieval Tool for Tight Pipe Navigation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional retrieval tools are not maneuverable enough to navigate through confined spaces with limited access, such as pipes, due to their length and the additional bulk of attached cameras and cables, which hinders their ability to turn through tight spaces.
Innovation Solution
A retrieval tool with a shortened length by mounting the actuator alongside the clamping mechanism and incorporating a radially offset camera, eliminating the need for additional cables and improving maneuverability, while maintaining or increasing gripping power.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Length of moving object
If the retrieval tool uses a conventional elongated design with separate camera cable, then it can reach distant objects, but it lacks maneuverability and cannot turn through tight spaces
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the camera and actuator into the retrieval tool body, eliminating separate camera cables and reducing overall system complexity. This integration allows the tool to navigate tight spaces more effectively while maintaining imaging capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The actuator is positioned laterally offset from the longitudinal axis rather than extending it, changing the spatial arrangement from an axial extension to a radial configuration. This dimensional change reduces the tool's effective length while maintaining actuation capability.
2Length of moving object
If the actuator is positioned axially to extend the tool, then reaching distance is increased, but the tool length increases reducing maneuverability
Solution Approach 1:
The actuator is positioned laterally offset from the longitudinal axis rather than extending it axially, changing the spatial arrangement from an axial extension to a radial configuration. This dimensional change reduces the tool's effective length while maintaining actuation capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The actuator is placed asymmetrically at a lateral offset position rather than symmetrically on the axis, creating an unbalanced configuration that reduces the tool's turning radius and improves maneuverability through tight elbows.
3Difficulty of detecting and measuring
If a separate camera cable is used, then imaging capability is provided, but the additional cable exacerbates maneuverability issues
Solution Approach 1:
The camera is integrated into the retrieval tool body, eliminating the need for separate camera cables. This merging of imaging functionality into the main tool structure removes the maneuverability constraints imposed by additional cables while maintaining full imaging capability.
Data Source
AI summary
A retrieval device for retrieving items within a confined space with limited access, said device comprising: (a) an elongated body having a front and rear and a longitudinal axis; (b) a clamping mechanism comprising at least a set of jaws disposed at said front, said jaws being configured to actuate between closed and open positions, said clamping mechanism also comprising at least one actuating member connected to said jaws and at least partially disposed in said body; (c) an actuator laterally offset from said axis and beside said at least one actuating member, said actuator operatively connected to said at least one actuating member to actuate said jaws between said closed and opened positions; and (d) at least one camera disposed proximate said motor and offset from said axis, said at least one camera having a field of view of at least a portion of said jaws.