Omnidirectional Pipe Inspection Imaging With 360-Degree Illumination
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing pipe inspection technologies are time-consuming due to directional lighting and require precise maneuvering, often with a troublesome cable extending from the pipe, limiting effective 360-degree imaging.
Innovation Solution
A visual inspection apparatus with a 360-degree light-permeable casing and omnidirectional camera, combined with a light-emitting assembly that illuminates the environment through the casing's sidewall and end, allowing 360-degree imaging and illumination without the need for precise maneuvering.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If a directional lighting system and single-direction camera are used, then the device complexity is reduced, but the inspection time increases and 360-degree imaging capability is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The lighting system is segmented into multiple independent light-emitting units positioned at different locations (front, rear, and side walls) of the inspection device. Each unit illuminates a specific sector, collectively providing complete 360-degree coverage. This segmentation allows the camera to capture all directions simultaneously without manual maneuvering, resolving the contradiction between simple device structure and efficient 360-degree inspection capability.
2Device complexity
If a directional lighting system and single-direction camera are used, then the device structure is simplified, but the imaging completeness deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The inspection system transitions from one-dimensional linear imaging (single direction) to three-dimensional omnidirectional imaging. Multiple cameras are positioned at different spatial locations and orientations within the device housing, enabling simultaneous capture of front, rear, left, and right views. This dimensional expansion ensures complete imaging coverage without requiring complex manual maneuvering procedures.
3Use of energy by moving object
If a cable is extended from the pipe to external location, then power supply is enabled, but the ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The inspection device incorporates an integrated power system with rechargeable batteries housed within the device body. The batteries are equipped with rechargeable contacts that interface with external power sources when the device is not in use. This self-contained power solution eliminates the need for trailing cables during inspection operations, significantly improving ease of operation while maintaining reliable power supply for lighting and imaging components.
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
Facilitates efficient and comprehensive pipe inspection by providing 360-degree imaging and illumination, reducing time and complexity, and eliminating the need for external cables.
Implementation Method 1
a light-emitting assembly mounted to the inspection casing and configure to emit light through the light-permeable section of the sidewall of the inspection casing and away therefrom, and from the casing inspection end of the inspection casing and away therefrom
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure relates to an inspection apparatus for visually inspecting a substantially dark area. The inspection apparatus includes an inspection casing having a sidewall extending between a casing inspection end and a connecting end, an omnidirectional video camera mounted to the casing inspection end of the inspection casing; and a light-emitting assembly at least partially contained in the inspection casing. The sidewall of the inspection casing has a light-permeable section extending along 360 degrees and the light-emitting assembly is configured to emit light through the light-permeable section and from the casing inspection end, and away therefrom. An inspection system is also described.