Pipeline Inspection Robot for Single-Pass Multi-Angle Imaging
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for inspecting above-ground pipelines are labor-intensive, time-consuming, and costly, requiring multiple traversals and the use of hazardous radiation sources, which are inefficient and pose safety risks.
Innovation Solution
A robotic crawler with individually controllable motors and adjustable mounting systems for imaging equipment that can capture data from multiple angles, allowing for efficient inspection with reduced passes and the ability to traverse various pipe support structures.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If manual inspection methods with scaffolding and hand-positioned imaging equipment are used, then inspection can be performed, but the process becomes labor-intensive and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The robotic crawler is self-propelled along the pipeline using its own drive system, eliminating the need for manual positioning by technicians. The robot autonomously traverses the pipeline while carrying and operating imaging equipment, making the inspection system self-sufficient and dramatically improving productivity while reducing inspection time
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the manual mechanical system of scaffolding and hand-positioned equipment with an automated robotic system. The robotic crawler uses motorized tracks for propulsion and automated mounting/dismounting mechanisms, substituting labor-intensive manual operations with automated mechanical systems that significantly reduce both time and labor requirements
2Reliability
If multiple traversals are performed to capture multiple angles of view, then complete inspection coverage is achieved, but the inspection process becomes more time-consuming and requires multiple sets of data to be reviewed
Solution Approach 1:
The robotic crawler introduces the dimension of movement along the pipeline's length, allowing imaging equipment to capture multiple angles and positions in a single continuous traversal. By moving the robot along the pipeline while acquiring images from various orientations, the system achieves complete inspection coverage without requiring multiple separate traversals, thus maintaining reliability while reducing time loss
Solution Approach 2:
The robotic inspection system performs continuous imaging and data acquisition throughout its entire traversal of the pipeline. The robot continuously captures images from multiple angles while moving along the pipeline, eliminating the interruptions and repeated traversals required by manual methods. This continuous useful action ensures complete coverage in a single pass, improving efficiency without compromising inspection completeness
3Reliability
If radiation sources are used for imaging, then pipeline inspection can be performed, but hazardous radiation sources require a large exclusion zone and pose safety risks
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts and removes the hazardous radiation sources from the inspection system, replacing them with non-ionizing imaging technologies. By eliminating the radiation sources entirely while maintaining the core inspection capability through alternative imaging methods, the system preserves inspection reliability without introducing radiation hazards or requiring exclusion zones
Solution Approach 2:
The patent converts the potentially harmful radiation-based imaging approach into a safe non-radiation alternative. By using non-ionizing imaging technologies that achieve the same inspection objectives without harmful effects, the system transforms a harmful inspection method into a safe one, maintaining inspection capability while eliminating radiation hazards to technicians and the environment
4Reliability
If imaging equipment is mounted on a vehicle for pipeline inspection, then inspection can be performed, but the imaging systems are heavy which hinders the operability of the vehicle
Solution Approach 1:
The robotic crawler employs a dynamic, adaptable mounting system that can adjust to different pipeline configurations and support structures. The mounting mechanism is designed to be flexible and reconfigurable, allowing the imaging equipment to be securely attached while maintaining the robot's ability to navigate various pipeline conditions. This dynamic mounting system prevents the equipment from becoming a fixed weight burden, preserving ease of operation while maintaining inspection capability
Data Source
AI summary
Systems and methods for robotic inspection of above-ground pipelines are disclosed. Embodiments may include a robotic crawler having a plurality of motors that are individually controllable for improved positioning on the pipeline to facilitate image acquisition. Embodiments may also include mounting systems to house and carry imaging equipment configured to capture image data simultaneously from a plurality of angles. Such mounting systems may be adjustable to account for different sizes of pipes (e.g., 2-40+ inches), and may be configured to account for traversing various pipe support structures. Still further, mounting systems may include quick-release members to allow for removal and re-mounting of imaging equipment when traversing support structures. In other aspects, embodiments may be directed toward control systems for the robotic crawler which assist in the navigation and image capture capabilities of the crawler.