Tripodal Camera Control Unit for Portable Pipe Inspection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional video pipe inspection systems are bulky and require multiple trips for solo operators to carry equipment, making them inefficient for remote and awkward locations, and lack effective data management and wireless communication for real-time monitoring and data exchange during pipe inspections.
Innovation Solution
A lightweight, man-portable pipe inspection camera controller unit with wireless communication links, USB memory ports, a counterweighted handle, foldable tripodal support, and a protective sun hood, enabling handheld operation, stable surface use, and efficient data storage and transmission, along with a cable-reel cradle for easy transport and deployment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If conventional video pipe inspection systems are used, then inspection capability is provided, but the equipment is bulky and requires multiple trips for solo operators
Solution Approach 1:
The inspection system is divided into separate functional modules: a camera head unit that can be inserted into the pipe, and a separate control unit that houses the display and control electronics. This segmentation allows the operator to carry only the essential control unit while the camera head is deployed through the pipe, reducing the burden of multiple trips.
Solution Approach 2:
The heavy and bulky components (cable reel, storage drum) are separated from the operator's immediate carrying burden. The camera head is forced down the pipe independently, while the operator carries only the control unit, effectively extracting the mass problem from the operator's task.
2Productivity
If traditional camera control units are carried separately from the reel and cable drum, then equipment functionality is maintained, but multiple trips are necessary for solo operators
Solution Approach 1:
The control unit is designed to be carried together with the cable reel assembly, merging previously separate equipment into a single portable package. This integration allows the operator to transport all necessary components in one trip, eliminating the need for multiple trips and improving inspection efficiency.
3Illumination intensity
If the displayed image size is increased for clear viewing, then visualization quality is improved, but equipment portability is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The display technology parameters are optimized to provide sufficient brightness and image quality while maintaining a compact and lightweight form factor. Modern LCD or OLED displays with high luminance efficiency allow clear viewing without requiring large, heavy display components.
Data Source
AI summary
Pipe inspection systems including cameras and camera control units (CCU) are disclosed. A CCU may include a switching circuit for automatically controlling power to elements of the CCU in response to movement of a display cover. A display of the CCU may display captured images and/or video, which may be integrated with data provided by a buried object locator or other device. The CCU may include a retractable kickstand assembly and a stowable handle, which may be removably attached to a cable storage reel.