Tank Inspection Platform With Charge Control and Buoyant Retrieval
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for inspecting tanks containing flammable or non-conductive hazardous substances are labor-intensive, pose safety risks due to the need for human intervention, and require extensive preparation and downtime, as well as challenges in accessing and retrieving equipment with accumulated electrical charges.
Innovation Solution
A mobile platform with an inherently safe enclosure, propulsion system, and charge accumulation control system, which allows for autonomous operation within the tank, preventing electrical sparks and facilitating safe and efficient inspections by controlling electrical charge accumulation and using a buoyant retrieval system.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If manual inspection methods are used with human work crews entering the tank, then inspection can be performed, but the process is time-consuming, costly, and poses safety risks due to the need to empty and purge the tank
Solution Approach 1:
The inspection device operates autonomously within the tank without requiring human operators to enter or manually control it. The device independently navigates, inspects, and transmits data, eliminating the need for human crews and the associated safety risks and downtime for tank emptying and purging.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual mechanical inspection methods with an automated electronic inspection system that uses sensors, processors, and communication systems to perform inspections remotely, eliminating the need for human physical presence and the extensive preparation required for manual inspections.
2Reliability
If remotely operated inspection devices are used with umbilical connections, then human safety is improved, but the system becomes labor-intensive and requires openings that expose the environment to hazardous materials
Solution Approach 1:
The inspection device is designed to operate independently within the tank without requiring an umbilical connection to the outside environment. All necessary components including power supplies, sensors, and communication systems are integrated into the sealed device, eliminating the need for openings and the associated exposure risks while reducing operational complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The inspection device integrates multiple functions including navigation, inspection, data processing, and communication within a single autonomous unit, eliminating the need for external control systems and umbilical connections, thereby simplifying operation and eliminating exposure risks.
3Ease of operation
If electrical power is supplied to machinery in non-conductive environments, then the machinery can operate, but electrical charge accumulates and may cause sparks that ignite energetic substances
Solution Approach 1:
The inspection device operates within an inherently safe enclosure that creates an inert environment, preventing electrical charge accumulation and spark generation. The enclosure design ensures that even if charge accumulates, it cannot discharge externally to ignite hazardous substances, allowing normal electrical operation without spark risks.
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 safe and efficient inspection of tank structures without human intervention, reducing downtime and operational costs, while ensuring the safety of both personnel and equipment by preventing electrical sparks and allowing for autonomous operation within hazardous environments.
Implementation Method 1
at least one retrieval system disposed at least partially on the enclosure and including at least one buoyant body
Data Source
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Figure 3A~3C
Figure 4
AI summary
A mobile platform uses a charge accumulation control system to control a charge accumulation while the mobile platform is in the tank. Alternatively or additionally, the mobile platform includes a retrieval system having a buoyant body, a primary tether, and a secondary tether. Alternatively or additionally, an electrical cable is used to reduce a voltage difference between the mobile platform and the tank or other structure by electrically connecting to an electrically conductive member on the mobile platform.