Robotic Pipeline Imaging With Multi-Angle Single-Pass Inspection
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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 equipped with imaging equipment that captures images from multiple angles in a single traversal, using reduced-radiation X-ray tubes and linear detectors, and processes the data to produce composite imaging results, reducing the need for multiple views and hazardous zones.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If multiple traversals are performed to capture multiple angles of view, then comprehensive inspection coverage is achieved, but inspection time and labor requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple imaging devices with different viewing angles (e.g., 0 degrees, 45 degrees, 90 degrees) into a single robotic inspection system. This allows the system to capture comprehensive pipeline inspection data from multiple angles simultaneously during a single traversal, eliminating the need for multiple separate traversals and significantly reducing inspection time while maintaining complete coverage.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a multi-dimensional imaging approach by incorporating sensors that capture data from various angular dimensions (azimuth angles) simultaneously. Instead of relying on multiple linear traversals, the system uses angular dimensionality to achieve comprehensive coverage in a single pass, transforming the inspection process from sequential multi-traversal to simultaneous multi-angular capture.
2Measurement precision
If hazardous radiation sources are used for imaging, then imaging capability is achieved, but safety risks and exclusion zone requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces hazardous, long-lived radiation sources with non-hazardous, short-lived optical imaging systems. The system uses conventional cameras and lighting that do not require large exclusion zones or special safety protocols, eliminating radiation hazards while maintaining sufficient imaging capability for pipeline inspection.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent substitutes radiation-based imaging (X-ray or gamma ray systems) with optical/mechanical imaging systems using cameras and visible or near-visible light sources. This replacement eliminates the need for hazardous radiation sources and associated safety measures while achieving the same inspection objective through optical detection.
3Adaptability or versatility
If manual positioning of imaging equipment is used, then flexibility is maintained, but labor intensity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements self-service automation where the robotic system autonomously navigates along the pipeline, positions itself, and executes imaging operations without manual intervention. The system includes automated path planning, obstacle detection, and data processing capabilities that enable it to perform the complete inspection task independently, dramatically improving productivity while maintaining adaptability to various pipeline configurations.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent incorporates feedback mechanisms where sensors continuously monitor the robot's position, orientation, and environmental conditions, and this information is fed back to the control system for real-time adjustments. This closed-loop control enables the system to maintain positioning accuracy and adapt to varying pipeline geometries automatically, combining the flexibility of manual positioning with the efficiency of automation.
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
This approach significantly reduces the time and labor required for pipeline inspections, enhances safety by minimizing radiation exposure, and provides comprehensive imaging data with fewer traversals, improving the efficiency and safety of the inspection process.
Implementation Method 1
employing a robotic crawler or other devices which carry imaging equipment and traverse a target pipe which are configured to capture image data simultaneously from a plurality of angles
Implementation Method 2
using reduced-radiation X-ray tubes and linear detectors
Data Source
AI summary
Systems and methods for generating and processing images captured while inspecting above-ground pipelines are disclosed. Embodiments may include a robotic crawler or other devices which carry imaging equipment and traverse a target pipe which are configured to capture image data simultaneously from a plurality of angles. Such systems may substantially reduce and in some cases overcome the need to take multiple traversals of a pipeline under inspection. Embodiments may also be directed toward control systems for such devices as well as image processing systems which process the multiple image sets to produce a composite imaging result.