Pipe inspection apparatus
US6020918A · kind A · utility
Inventor
Key dates
| Filing date | Jun 26, 1997 |
| Grant date | Feb 1, 2000 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Jun 26, 2017 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC G)Physics
- CPC primaryG01N2021/9544
- WIPO fieldMeasurement
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
An improved apparatus for inspecting and video taping pipelines is provided. A tubular vessel accommodates a video camera. A plurality of scuba lights are adjustably mounted to the periphery of the tubular housing at the front end of the apparatus. A dual-section guide leg is provided which has limited upward and downward movement and limited forward and rearward movement. An elastic member controls the upward/downward and forward/rearward movement of the guide leg to provide a shock absorber system. The guide leg engages the top inside surface of the pipeline as the apparatus is carried down the pipeline by the current. The angle of inclination of the apparatus may be controlled with weights, foam and the position of the guide leg.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.