Integrated Pipe Inspection Robot with Local Water Jetter
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional pipe inspection and cleaning processes are typically performed separately using distinct equipment, which can be inefficient and wasteful, as they require external water sources and separate units for jetting and inspection.
Innovation Solution
An integrated pipe inspection robot with a submersible pump, filter, and jetter nozzles that can traverse pipes, allowing for simultaneous inspection and cleaning using pressurized water from a local source, enabling efficient debris removal and data collection while conserving water and resources.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If separate water jetter equipment is used for pipe cleaning, then cleaning function is provided, but equipment complexity and operational inefficiency increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the pipe inspection robot and water jetter into a single integrated unit. The inspection robot includes a camera system for capturing pipe images and a water jetter system with pump, water source, and nozzle for cleaning pipe interior surfaces. This merging eliminates the need for separate inspection and cleaning operations, allowing both functions to be performed by one device, thereby improving operational efficiency while managing equipment complexity through integration.
2Loss of substance
If external water sources are used for jetting, then cleaning capability is achieved, but water consumption and resource waste increase
Solution Approach 1:
The water jetter system is designed to draw water from a local water source positioned within the pipe interior, rather than requiring external water supply. The robot collects water from the pipe environment itself and uses it for cleaning purposes. This self-service approach to water supply reduces water waste and eliminates the need for external water sources, as the system utilizes water already present in the pipe environment.
3Productivity
If separate inspection and jetting operations are performed, then each function is optimized, but time consumption and productivity decrease
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates inspection and jetting functions into a single operational unit. The inspection robot captures pipe interior images using a camera system while simultaneously or sequentially performing cleaning operations using the water jetter. This integration allows operators to complete both inspection and cleaning tasks in one operation, eliminating the need for separate inspection and jetting operations, thereby reducing time consumption and improving productivity.
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 solution enables efficient pipe inspection and cleaning by allowing the robot to navigate and clear debris while collecting data, reducing water waste and the need for external water sources, thus improving operational efficiency and resource management.
Implementation Method 1
a jetter comprising a water pump; and an intake hose that couples the pump of the jetter to a local water source proximate to the pipe inspection robot
Data Source
AI summary
One embodiment provides an apparatus, including: a pipe inspection robot that traverses a pipe; a fetter comprising a water pump; and an intake hose that couples the pump of the jetter to a local water source proximate to the pipe inspection robot. Other aspects are described and claimed.