Autonomous Sewer Camera Centering Using Distance Sensor Offsets
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional sewer inspection systems face challenges in accurately and efficiently aligning cameras in the center of sewer pipes, particularly due to manual intervention, which is prone to errors and delays, and can lead to equipment damage.
Innovation Solution
A system and method utilizing a sensor system to detect distances from a predetermined point in the sewer pipe, a processing unit to determine the pipe diameter and center point, and a positioning unit to correct the camera's position based on horizontal and vertical offsets, ensuring precise alignment without manual intervention.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If manual positioning of the camera is used, then the camera can be initially placed in the center of the pipe, but the positioning becomes inaccurate when deposits are present or pipe diameter changes
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual mechanical positioning with an automated sensor-based system. Distance sensors (ultrasonic, laser, or time-of-flight) automatically measure the pipe diameter and calculate the center position, eliminating the need for manual measurement and positioning adjustments.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs self-positioning by autonomously detecting pipe characteristics and adjusting the camera position accordingly. The processing unit automatically calculates horizontal and vertical offsets based on sensor data and controls the positioning unit to center the camera without operator intervention.
2Measurement precision
If operator-controlled lifting unit is used for camera alignment, then camera centering can be achieved, but the process becomes complex and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces complex manual mechanical adjustment with automated electronic control. The system uses sensors to detect pipe dimensions, processing units to calculate positioning offsets, and automated positioning units (motors or actuators) to adjust camera position, dramatically reducing positioning time while maintaining accuracy.
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements closed-loop feedback by continuously monitoring pipe characteristics with distance sensors and automatically adjusting camera position based on real-time measurements. The processing unit compares detected pipe diameter against expected dimensions and makes corrective positioning adjustments to maintain accurate centering.
3Measurement precision
If manual positioning is performed by experienced operators, then accurate camera placement can be achieved, but the process requires special skills and is prone to human error
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces skilled manual operation with automated sensor-based positioning systems. Distance sensors, processing units, and automated positioning mechanisms eliminate the need for operator expertise in manual measurement and calculation, making the system equally effective regardless of operator skill level.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs self-positioning by autonomously detecting pipe characteristics and calculating the optimal camera position. The processing unit automatically determines horizontal and vertical offsets and controls the positioning unit to center the camera without requiring operator intervention or specialized skills.
4Ease of operation
If visual alignment methods are used for inspection units, then positioning can be achieved, but the method is limited to camera systems and cannot be applied to other inspection units
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a universal positioning system that can accommodate various inspection units (cameras, gas detectors, chemical sensors, temperature sensors) through standardized mounting interfaces. The automated sensor-based positioning method applies equally to all inspection unit types, eliminating the limitation of visual alignment methods to camera systems only.
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
Enables rapid, precise, and safe camera positioning in sewer pipes, allowing consistent and error-free image recording from the same position, reducing reliance on operator skill, and minimizing equipment damage.
Implementation Method 1
a sensor system, which is adapted to detect at least three distances between a predetermined first point in the sewer pipe and the sewer wall of the sewer pipe
Implementation Method 2
a sensor system, which is adapted to detect at least three distances between a predetermined first point in the sewer pipe and the sewer wall of the sewer pipe, wherein the at least three distances are detected starting from the predetermined first point in different directions relative to the sewer wall
Data Source
AI summary
A sewer inspection or maintenance system is provided having a sensor system with which at least three distances between a predetermined first point in the sewer pipe and the sewer wall of the sewer pipe are detected. The system has a processing unit adapted for determining a diameter of the sewer pipe and a predetermined second point in the sewer pipe based on the detected distances, and for determining a horizontal offset and a vertical offset between the predetermined first point and the predetermined second point based on the determined diameter and the detected distances. The system also has a positioning unit which is adapted to correct the position of an inspection unit in the sewer pipe by the two offsets. A corresponding method is provided as well.