Pipe Drone Wireless Mesh Communication for Long-Distance Inspection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing pipe inspection and repair robots rely on cumbersome communication cabling, which limits their mobility and effectiveness in navigating complex pipe geometries and long distances, especially in tunnelling operations.
Innovation Solution
A wireless communication-enabled drone system that allows for remote operation within pipes, using RF, Wi-Fi, or optical communication, and forms a mesh network with additional drones to relay messages, enabling communication over long distances and between multiple drones, with the ability to form trains and transfer consumables.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If communication cabling is used to control robots within pipes, then reliable communication can be achieved, but the system becomes cumbersome and mobility is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes the communication cable from the robot system, extracting the restrictive element that limited mobility. The robot is equipped with a wireless communication device that transmits signals through the pipe wall to a surface station, eliminating the need for physical cable connection and enabling free movement throughout the pipe network.
2Ease of operation
If wireless communication is used within pipes, then mobility is improved, but communication reliability may be compromised due to surrounding geology
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses the pipe wall itself as an intermediary medium for communication. The wireless communication device transmits signals through the pipe wall substrate to a surface station, utilizing the pipe structure as a transmission medium. This approach maintains communication reliability while enabling wireless operation, as the pipe wall provides a consistent transmission path unlike the variable surrounding geology.
3Length of stationary object
If multiple drones are deployed to form a mesh network, then communication distance is extended, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the communication task across multiple independent drone units, each capable of wireless communication. These drones form a mesh network where signals can be relayed between units, extending the effective communication distance along long pipe networks. Each drone operates as an independent node, simplifying individual unit design while achieving system-level extended range.
Data Source
AI summary
It is known to deploy robots within pipes in order to carry out investigations for damage, and potentially effect repairs. Such robots may be self-propelled, but in some applications they are controlled via a connected line, conveying electrical or optical signals along a cable, and/or pneumatic or hydraulic pressure via a hose. However, there exist numerous drawbacks with these systems. The present invention provides a drone for use within a pipe 71, the drone comprising: a plurality of wheels 5 configured to enable movement of the drone along a pipe; a payload bay configured to retaining a payload 15 therein; and a wireless communication device configured to enable communication therewith. In this way, the drone may be remotely operated by a user while down a pipe 71, without the need for cumbersome communication cabling.