Semicircular Recessed Piping Inspection Robot
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing piping inspection methods struggle to inspect the entire outer surface of pipes, particularly the lower half, due to structural limitations and the need for complex and heavy inspection devices, which reduces workability and efficiency.
Innovation Solution
A self-propelled piping inspection robot with a semicircular recessed frame that allows the inspection device to revolve around the pipe, enabling it to move along the axis and circumference, equipped with a neutron moisture meter or other flaw detection devices for non-destructive testing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the inspection device is hung on the lower portion of the piping using only the arm, then the piping can be inspected, but the arm strength must be enhanced and the configuration becomes complicated
Solution Approach 1:
The recessed part changes the structural dimension by creating a semicircular configuration that fits around the piping, allowing the inspection device to be positioned at the lower portion without requiring the arm to bear the full weight. This dimensional change enables weight distribution through the recessed structure itself rather than solely through the arm mechanism.
Solution Approach 2:
The device body is divided into separate functional components: the recessed part for structural support and positioning, the arm for positioning adjustments, and the inspection device for detection. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function efficiently without requiring the arm to provide both positioning and weight-bearing functions.
2Ease of operation
If the inspection device is hung on the lower portion of the piping using only the arm, then the piping can be inspected, but the heavy load at the piping side becomes large and operation needs time
Solution Approach 1:
By changing the structural dimension with the recessed part configuration, the weight distribution is optimized. The recessed structure provides direct support to the inspection device at the lower portion, reducing the moment arm and thereby decreasing the load on the piping and reducing positioning time.
3Productivity
If the device configuration is simplified and weight is reduced, then mobility and operability are improved, but the ability to inspect the lower half of the piping may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The recessed part creates a semicircular structural dimension that naturally positions the inspection device to face the lower portion of the piping. This dimensional configuration ensures that simplifying the device structure does not compromise lower half inspection capability, as the recessed geometry itself provides the necessary positioning and orientation.
Solution Approach 2:
The recessed part is designed with asymmetric geometry optimized for lower portion inspection. The semicircular configuration with the opening oriented appropriately allows the inspection device to focus on the lower half of the piping, creating an asymmetric but highly effective inspection system that maintains versatility.
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 robot simplifies the device configuration, reduces weight, and enhances mobility and operability, allowing for comprehensive inspection of the pipe's outer surface, including areas with T-shaped stands, while maintaining remote control capabilities.
Implementation Method 1
a neutron moisture meter that measures the moisture contained in the lagging material
Data Source
AI summary
Provided is an inspection robot that is self-propelled on piping, measures moisture contained in a lagging material using a mounted inspection device, for example, a neutron moisture meter, and detects risk of corrosion. The inspection robot includes a main frame 1 including a recessed part 17 fit onto an outer circumferential surface of piping P, a main frame drive mechanism (first drive mechanism) D1 that causes the main frame to advance/retract in an axis direction of the piping, a revolving member 32 supported in an advanceable/retractable manner along an arc-shaped locus in the recessed part of the main frame, a revolving member drive mechanism (second drive mechanism) D2 that moves the revolving member, and an inspection device mounted on the revolving member.