Steerable Nozzle-Mounted Camera for Pipe Inspection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current pipe inspection methods, such as pipe crawlers, are inconvenient, time-consuming, and limited by pipe size and configuration, often requiring separate personnel for inspection and cleaning, and lack the ability to navigate turns and debris effectively.
Innovation Solution
A steerable nozzle-mounted camera system using a combination of nozzles for axial propulsion and lateral steering, powered by high-pressure fluid for navigation and cleaning, allowing the camera to traverse bends, branches, and levitate over debris while capturing live video.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a pipe crawler is used for inspection, then detailed images can be obtained, but the inspection process becomes time-consuming and requires specialized setup and personnel
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines pipe inspection and cleaning operations into a single integrated system. The nozzle-mounted camera system performs both functions simultaneously, eliminating the need for separate inspection and cleaning operations, thereby reducing total time and personnel requirements while maintaining inspection quality
Solution Approach 2:
The camera system is designed to perform multiple functions: inspection imaging, navigation through turns, and debris removal. This multi-functional capability replaces the need for specialized pipe crawlers and separate cleaning operations, reducing setup time and personnel requirements
2Measurement precision
If a pipe crawler is used for inspection, then detailed images can be obtained, but the system is limited by pipe size and configuration and cannot navigate turns and debris effectively
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses high-pressure fluid (water) delivered through the nozzle to provide propulsion, steering control, and debris removal capabilities. This hydraulic approach enables the camera to navigate turns, traverse laterals, and move through debris-filled pipes, significantly improving adaptability while maintaining image quality
Solution Approach 2:
The nozzle-mounted camera system is designed to be dynamic and adaptable to various pipe configurations. The high-pressure fluid stream allows real-time adjustment of position and direction, enabling navigation through turns, bends, and debris, making the system versatile for different pipe sizes and conditions
3Reliability
If separate personnel are used for inspection and cleaning, then each function can be performed with specialized equipment, but the overall process becomes more complex and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges inspection and cleaning functions into a single integrated system operated by one personnel. The nozzle-mounted camera combines imaging capabilities with high-pressure fluid delivery for both navigation and debris removal, eliminating the need for separate inspection and cleaning operations and reducing overall system complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The camera system is designed as a universal tool that performs multiple functions: inspection imaging, navigation, and cleaning. This multi-functional design replaces the need for separate specialized equipment and personnel, reducing complexity while maintaining reliable performance of each function
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 efficient inspection and cleaning of pipes by allowing navigation through complex pipe structures, locating issues like blockages and cross-bores, and performing cleaning tasks without the need for specialized setup or personnel, improving the convenience and effectiveness of pipe maintenance.
Implementation Method 1
a first nozzle having a plurality of jets configured such that expelling fluid from the first nozzle propels the camera assembly in an axial direction
Implementation Method 2
a second nozzle having one or more jets configured such that expelling fluid from the second nozzle steers the camera assembly laterally
Implementation Method 3
The system uses high-pressure fluid (e.g., water) for propulsion, steering and cleaning
Data Source
AI summary
A system for imaging a pipe comprising: (a) a first nozzle having a plurality of jets configured such that expelling fluid from the first nozzle urges the nozzle in an axial direction without substantially biasing the first nozzle laterally; (b) a second nozzle in fluid communication with the first nozzle, the second nozzle having one or more jets configured such that expelling fluid from the second nozzle biases the second nozzle laterally, wherein at least one of the first or second nozzles is configured for attachment to a hose for providing pressurized fluid, wherein the second nozzle is operatively connectable to the hose such that rotating the hose rotates the second nozzle; and (c) a camera attached proximately to the second nozzle.