UAV X-Ray Inspection Bracket for Power Line Cable Analysis
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Solution Overview
Problem
Inspecting large, high, or tall terrestrial assets such as cellular towers, buildings, and power lines is challenging due to safety concerns and the need for specialized and costly equipment like cranes and helicopters, and requires significant training for personnel to identify anomalies.
Innovation Solution
An unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) equipped with an x-ray camera and navigation systems to capture x-ray images of power lines and other thin objects, allowing for remote and cost-effective inspections without human climbers, providing detailed information and measurements through a web portal.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Difficulty of detecting and measuring
If ladders, cranes, or helicopters are used for asset inspection, then inspection capability is improved, but cost, complexity, and safety risks increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces mechanical inspection systems (ladders, cranes, helicopters) with an unmanned aerial vehicle that carries an X-ray imaging system. The UAV uses aerodynamic flight to reach inspection positions without requiring mechanical support structures, while the X-ray system provides non-contact imaging capability that eliminates the need for physical contact with inspected assets.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an X-ray imaging system as an intermediary between the inspection asset and the observer. The X-ray images capture internal structures and anomalies that are not visible to the naked eye, providing information that bridges the gap between physical inspection and analytical detection without requiring direct human contact with dangerous assets.
2Measurement precision
If specialized training is provided for personnel to identify anomalies, then inspection quality is improved, but cost and time requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a visual copy of the inspected asset's internal structure through X-ray imaging. These images serve as detailed replicas that show anomalies, defects, and structural conditions that are invisible during conventional visual inspections. The standardized X-ray imagery provides consistent, objective data that reduces reliance on subjective human interpretation and extensive training.
3Difficulty of detecting and measuring
If expensive equipment like cranes and helicopters is used, then inspection capability is improved, but operational cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a relatively inexpensive unmanned aerial vehicle instead of expensive cranes or helicopters. The UAV is a lightweight, autonomous platform that can be deployed repeatedly at low cost, replacing high-value equipment that incurs significant operational expenses for fuel, maintenance, and personnel. The UAV's lower cost structure enables frequent inspections without substantial financial burden.
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 solution enables safe, efficient, and cost-effective x-ray inspections of difficult-to-reach assets, reducing the risk of injury and providing up-to-date imagery and data for asset management, while eliminating the need for expensive equipment and extensive training.
Implementation Method 1
An unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) equipped with an x-ray camera and navigation systems to capture x-ray images of power lines
Data Source
AI summary
A device (200) includes a unit bracket weldment (201), a bridge weldment (202) extending from the unit bracket weldment to a plate bracket assembly (209), and an x-ray plate (203) extending distally from the plate bracket assembly. One or more cable hook weldments (211,212) are disposed to either side of the x-ray plate. A method of inspecting a cable (1102) or power line includes coupling the device to a drone (101). The drone can then be flown to capture the cable in the cable hook weldments such that an x-ray imager (1103) can capture one or more of x-ray images of the cable or power line.