Pipeline inspection apparatus
US9206938B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Jul 16, 2013 |
| Grant date | Dec 8, 2015 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | May 12, 2034 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC F)Mechanical Engineering; Lighting; Heating
- CPC primaryF16L2101/30
- WIPO fieldMechanical elements
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
This invention relates to a pipeline inspection apparatus and to a method of inspecting the internal surfaces of a pipeline using a pipeline inspection apparatus. A pipeline inspection apparatus comprises a main body having a front end and a rear end relative to a direction of travel of the apparatus along a pipeline in use; sealing means for sealing against an internal surface of the pipeline, the sealing means being attached to the main body; an imaging module mounted proximate the front end of the main body, the imaging module comprising a camera and a light source, the light source being arranged to emit light in a direction towards the internal surface of the pipeline, and the camera being arranged such that, in use, the camera captures image data of the internal surface of the pipeline; and control circuitry located within the main body, the control circuitry including a power supply and memory means for storing data captured by said camera, wherein the sealing means forms a seal against the internal surface of the pipeline such that, in use, a fluid flowing along the pipeline applies a driving force to the pipeline inspection apparatus to propel the apparatus along the pipel…
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.