The present disclosure relates to robotic inspection and treatment of industrial surfaces.
Previously known inspection and treatment systems for industrial surfaces suffer from a number of drawbacks. Industrial surfaces are often required to be inspected to determine whether a pipe wall, tank surface, or other industrial surface feature has suffered from corrosion, degradation, loss of a coating, damage, wall thinning or wear, or other undesirable aspects. Industrial surfaces are often present within a hazardous location—for example in an environment with heavy operating equipment, operating at high temperatures, in a confined environment, at a high elevation, in the presence of high voltage electricity, in the presence of toxic or noxious gases, in the presence of corrosive liquids, and/or in the presence of operating equipment that is dangerous to personnel. Accordingly, presently known systems require that a system be shutdown, that a system be operated at a reduced capacity, that stringent safety procedures be followed (e.g., lockout/tagout, confined space entry procedures, harnessing, etc.), and/or that personnel are exposed to hazards even if proper procedures are followed. Additionally, the inconvenience, hazards, and/or confined spaces of personnel entry into inspection areas can result in inspections that are incomplete, of low resolution, that lack systematic coverage of the inspected area, and/or that are prone to human error and judgement in determining whether an area has been properly inspected.
In embodiments, an apparatus may comprise a profiler data circuit structured to interpret inspection data comprising sensed information from a location on an inspection surface, wherein the inspection data comprises laser profiler data; determine a feature of interest is present at the location of the inspection surface in response to the inspection data; and wherein the feature of interest comprises a shape description of the inspection surface at the location of the feature of interest. In embodiments, the apparatus may further comprise a profile adjustment circuit structured to provide an inspection operation adjustment in response to the shape description. The inspection operation adjustment may comprise a change to a sensor resolution value. The inspection operation adjustment may further comprise performing a post-processing operation on ultra-sonic sensor data in response to the shape description. The inspection operation adjustment may further comprise performing a post-processing operation on electromagnetic induction sensor data in response to the shape description. The inspection operation adjustment may comprise a command for a marking operation. The marking operation may comprise at least one of a physical marking operation or a virtual marking operation. The inspection operation adjustment may further comprise a command for performing an image capture operation. The apparatus may further comprise a position definition circuit structured to determine an inspection robot position on the inspection surface; and a data positioning circuit structured to correlate the inspection data to the inspection robot position on the inspection surface and to correlate the captured image information with the inspection data corresponding to the location of the inspection surface. The apparatus may further comprise an inspection visualization circuit structured to determine an inspection map in response to the inspection data corresponding to the location of the inspection surface. The inspection map may comprise a visual depiction of the inspection data positioned on a visual representation of the inspection surface. The apparatus may further comprise a virtual mark positioned at a location of interest on the inspection map.
In embodiments, a system may comprise an inspection robot having an input sensor comprising a laser profiler and a plurality of wheels structured to engage a curved portion of an inspection surface, wherein the laser profiler is configured to provide laser profiler data of the inspection surface; a controller, comprising: a profiler data circuit structured to interpret the laser profiler data; determine a feature of interest is present at a location of the inspection surface in response to the laser profiler data; and wherein the feature of interest comprises a shape description of the inspection surface at the location of the feature of interest. The curved portion of the inspection surface may comprise one of a tube or a pipe, and wherein the laser profiler is further configured to provide the laser profiler data by interrogating a same side of the tube or pipe engaged by the plurality of wheels. The system may further comprise wherein the inspection robot further comprises at least one of: an ultra-sonic (UT) sensor or a magnetic induction sensor; and wherein the controller further comprises: wherein the profiler data circuit is further structured to interpret at least one of: UT data from the UT sensor or magnetic induction data from the magnetic induction sensor; and a profile adjustment circuit structured to provide an inspection operation adjustment in response to the shape description. The system may further comprise wherein the at least one of the UT sensor or the magnetic induction sensor further comprise a plurality of inspection data sensors; wherein each of the plurality of inspection data sensors are positioned on one of a plurality of sleds, and wherein a plurality of the sleds are each positioned on an arm operationally coupled to the inspection robot; and wherein the plurality of sleds are horizontally distributed relative to the inspection surface at selected horizontal positions. The inspection operation adjustment may further comprise at least one of an adjustment to a sled or an adjustment to a sensor orientation within a sled. The inspection operation adjustment may further comprise at least one operation selected from the operations consisting of: changing one of a number or a configuration of the sleds; adjusting a down force of a sled; and adjusting a shape of a sled bottom surface. The system may further comprise wherein the plurality of inspection data sensors further comprises an image capture sensor; a sensor operation circuit structured to command the image capture sensor to capture image information from the location on the inspection surface; and an inspection visualization circuit structured to correlate the captured image information with the inspection data corresponding to the location of the inspection surface.
In embodiments, a method may comprise operating an inspection robot having a plurality of input sensors, the plurality of input sensors comprising a laser profiler; interpreting inspection data comprising sensed information from a location on an inspection surface, wherein the inspection data comprises laser profiler data; determining a feature of interest is present at the location of the inspection surface in response to the inspection data, wherein the feature of interest comprises a shape description of the inspection surface at the location of interest; and providing an inspection operation adjustment in response to the shape description. In embodiments, the inspection operation adjustment may further comprise performing a post-processing operation on ultra-sonic sensor data in response to the shape description. The method may further comprise wherein providing the inspection operation adjustment further comprises performing an image capture operation; the method further comprising determining an inspection robot position on the inspection surface; and correlating the inspection data to the inspection robot position on the inspection surface, and correlating the captured image information with the inspection data corresponding to the location of the inspection surface.
The present disclosure relates to a system developed for traversing, climbing, or otherwise traveling over walls (curved or flat), or other industrial surfaces. Industrial surfaces, as described herein, include any tank, pipe, housing, or other surface utilized in an industrial environment, including at least heating and cooling pipes, conveyance pipes or conduits, and tanks, reactors, mixers, or containers. In certain embodiments, an industrial surface is ferromagnetic, for example including iron, steel, nickel, cobalt, and alloys thereof. In certain embodiments, an industrial surface is not ferromagnetic.
Certain descriptions herein include operations to inspect a surface, an inspection robot or inspection device, or other descriptions in the context of performing an inspection. Inspections, as utilized herein, should be understood broadly. Without limiting any other disclosures or embodiments herein, inspection operations herein include operating one or more sensors in relation to an inspected surface, electromagnetic radiation inspection of a surface (e.g., operating a camera) whether in the visible spectrum or otherwise (e.g., infrared, UV, X-Ray, gamma ray, etc.), high-resolution inspection of the surface itself (e.g., a laser profiler, caliper, etc.), performing a repair operation on a surface, performing a cleaning operation on a surface, and/or marking a surface for a later operation (e.g., for further inspection, for repair, and/or for later analysis). Inspection operations include operations for a payload carrying a sensor or an array of sensors (e.g. on sensor sleds) for measuring characteristics of a surface being traversed such as thickness of the surface, curvature of the surface, ultrasound (or ultra-sonic) measurements to test the integrity of the surface and/or the thickness of the material forming the surface, heat transfer, heat profile/mapping, profiles or mapping any other parameters, the presence of rust or other corrosion, surface defects or pitting, the presence of organic matter or mineral deposits on the surface, weld quality and the like. Sensors may include magnetic induction sensors, acoustic sensors, laser sensors, LIDAR, a variety of image sensors, and the like. The inspection sled may carry a sensor for measuring characteristics near the surface being traversed such as emission sensors to test for gas leaks, air quality monitoring, radioactivity, the presence of liquids, electro-magnetic interference, visual data of the surface being traversed such as uniformity, reflectance, status of coatings such as epoxy coatings, wall thickness values or patterns, wear patterns, and the like. The term inspection sled may indicate one or more tools for repairing, welding, cleaning, applying a treatment or coating the surface being treated. Treatments and coatings may include rust proofing, sealing, painting, application of a coating, and the like. Cleaning and repairing may include removing debris, sealing leaks, patching cracks, and the like. The term inspection sled, sensor sled, and sled may be used interchangeably throughout the present disclosure.
In certain embodiments, for clarity of description, a sensor is described in certain contexts throughout the present disclosure, but it is understood explicitly that one or more tools for repairing, cleaning, and/or applying a treatment or coating to the surface being treated are likewise contemplated herein wherever a sensor is referenced. In certain embodiments, where a sensor provides a detected value (e.g., inspection data or the like), a sensor rather than a tool may be contemplated, and/or a tool providing a feedback value (e.g., application pressure, application amount, nozzle open time, orientation, etc.) may be contemplated as a sensor in such contexts.
Inspections are conducted with a robotic system 100 (e.g., an inspection robot, a robotic vehicle, etc.) which may utilize sensor sleds 1 and a sled array system 2 which enables accurate, self-aligning, and self-stabilizing contact with a surface (not shown) while also overcoming physical obstacles and maneuvering at varying or constant speeds. In certain embodiments, mobile contact of the system 100 with the surface includes a magnetic wheel 3. In certain embodiments, a sled array system 2 is referenced herein as a payload 2—wherein a payload 2 is an arrangement of sleds 1 with sensor mounted thereon, and wherein, in certain embodiments, an entire payload 2 can be changed out as a unit. The utilization of payloads 2, in certain embodiments, allows for a pre-configured sensor array that provides for rapid re-configuration by swapping out the entire payload 2. In certain embodiments, sleds 1 and/or specific sensors on sleds 1, are changeable within a payload 2 to reconfigure the sensor array.
An example sensor sled 1 includes, without limitation, one or more sensors mounted thereon such that the sensor(s) is operationally couplable to an inspection surface in contact with a bottom surface of the corresponding one of the sleds. For example, the sled 1 may include a chamber or mounting structure, with a hole at the bottom of the sled 1 such that the sensor can maintain line-of-sight and/or acoustic coupling with the inspection surface. The sled 1 as described throughout the present disclosure is mounted on and/or operationally coupled to the inspection robot 100 such that the sensor maintains a specified alignment to the inspection surface 500—for example a perpendicular arrangement to the inspection surface, or any other specified angle. In certain embodiments, a sensor mounted on a sled 1 may have a line-of-sight or other detecting arrangement to the inspection surface that is not through the sled 1—for example a sensor may be mounted at a front or rear of a sled 1, mounted on top of a sled 1 (e.g., having a view of the inspection surface that is forward, behind, to a side, and/or oblique to the sled 1). It will be seen that, regardless of the sensing orientation of the sensor to the inspection surface, maintenance of the sled 1 orientation to the inspection surface will support more consistent detection of the inspection surface by the sensor, and/or sensed values (e.g., inspection data) that is more consistently comparable over the inspection surface and/or that has a meaningful position relationship compared to position information determined for the sled 1 or inspection robot 100. In certain embodiments, a sensor may be mounted on the inspection robot 100 and/or a payload 2—for example a camera mounted on the inspection robot 100.
The present disclosure allows for gathering of structural information from a physical structure. Example physical structures include industrial structures such as boilers, pipelines, tanks, ferromagnetic structures, and other structures. An example system 100 is configured for climbing the outside of tube walls.
As described in greater detail below, in certain embodiments, the disclosure provides a system that is capable of integrating input from sensors and sensing technology that may be placed on a robotic vehicle. The robotic vehicle is capable of multi-directional movement on a variety of surfaces, including flat walls, curved surfaces, ceilings, and/or floors (e.g., a tank bottom, a storage tank floor, and/or a recovery boiler floor). The ability of the robotic vehicle to operate in this way provides unique access especially to traditionally inaccessible or dangerous places, thus permitting the robotic vehicle to gather information about the structure it is climbing on.
The system 100 (e.g., an inspection robot, a robotic vehicle, and/or supporting devices such as external computing devices, couplant or fluid reservoirs and delivery systems, etc.) in
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In certain embodiments, the system is also able to collect information at multiple locations at once. This may be accomplished through the use of a sled array system. Modular in design, the sled array system allows for mounting sensor mounts, like the sleds, in fixed positions to ensure thorough coverage over varying contours. Furthermore, the sled array system allows for adjustment in spacing between sensors, adjustments of sled angle, and traveling over obstacles. In certain embodiments, the sled array system was designed to allow for multiplicity, allowing sensors to be added to or removed from the design, including changes in the type, quantity, and/or physical sensing arrangement of sensors. The sensor sleds that may be employed within the context of the present invention may house different sensors for diverse modalities useful for inspection of a structure. These sensor sleds are able to stabilize, align, travel over obstacles, and control, reduce, or optimize couplant delivery which allows for improved sensor feedback, reduced couplant loss, reduced post-inspection clean-up, reduced down-time due to sensor re-runs or bad data, and/or faster return to service for inspected equipment.
There may be advantages to maintaining a sled with associated sensors or tools in contact and/or in a fixed orientation relative to the surface being traversed even when that surface is contoured, includes physical features, obstacles, and the like. In embodiments, there may be sled assemblies which are self-aligning to accommodate variabilities in the surface being traversed (e.g., an inspection surface) while maintaining the bottom surface of the sled (and/or a sensor or tool, e.g. where the sensor or tool protrudes through or is flush with a bottom surface of the sled) in contact with the inspection surface and the sensor or tool in a fixed orientation relative to the inspection surface. In an embodiment, as shown in
Within the inspection sled mount 14 there may be a biasing member (e.g., torsion spring 21) which provides a down force to the sled 1 and corresponding arms 20. In the example, the down force is selectable by changing the torsion spring, and/or by adjusting the configuration of the torsion spring (e.g., confining or rotating the torsion spring to increase or decrease the down force). Analogous operations or structures to adjust the down force for other biasing members (e.g., a cylindrical spring, actuator for active down force control, etc.) are contemplated herein.
In certain embodiments, the inspection robot 100 includes a tether (not shown) to provide power, couplant or other fluids, and/or communication links to the robot 100. It has been demonstrated that a tether to support at least 200 vertical feet of climbing can be created, capable of couplant delivery to multiple ultra-sonic sensors, sufficient power for the robot, and sufficient communication for real-time processing at a computing device remote from the robot. Certain aspects of the disclosure herein, such as but not limited to utilizing couplant conservation features such as sled downforce configurations, the acoustic cone, and water as a couplant, support an extended length of tether. In certain embodiments, multiple ultra-sonic sensors can be provided with sufficient couplant through a ⅛″ couplant delivery line, and/or through a ¼″ couplant delivery line to the inspection robot 100, with ⅛″ final delivery lines to individual sensors. While the inspection robot 100 is described as receiving power, couplant, and communications through a tether, any or all of these, or other aspects utilized by the inspection robot 100 (e.g., paint, marking fluid, cleaning fluid, repair solutions, etc.) may be provided through a tether or provided in situ on the inspection robot 100. For example, the inspection robot 100 may utilize batteries, a fuel cell, and/or capacitors to provide power; a couplant reservoir and/or other fluid reservoir on the robot to provide fluids utilized during inspection operations, and/or wireless communication of any type for communications, and/or store data in a memory location on the robot for utilization after an inspection operation or a portion of an inspection operation.
In certain embodiments, maintaining sleds 1 (and sensors or tools mounted thereupon) in contact and/or selectively oriented (e.g., perpendicular) to a surface being traversed provides for: reduced noise, reduced lost-data periods, fewer false positives, and/or improved quality of sensing; and/or improved efficacy of tools associated with the sled (less time to complete a repair, cleaning, or marking operation; lower utilization of associated fluids therewith; improved confidence of a successful repair, cleaning, or marking operation, etc.). In certain embodiments, maintaining sleds 1 in contacts and/or selectively oriented to the surface being traversed provides for reduced losses of couplant during inspection operations.
In certain embodiments, the combination of the pivot points 16, 17, 18) and torsion spring 21 act together to position the sled 1 perpendicular to the surface being traversed. The biasing force of the spring 21 may act to extend the sled arms 20 downward and away from the payload shaft 19 and inspection sled mount 14, pushing the sled 1 toward the inspection surface. The torsion spring 21 may be passive, applying a constant downward pressure, or the torsion spring 21 or other biasing member may be active, allowing the downward pressure to be varied. In an illustrative and non-limiting example, an active torsion spring 21 might be responsive to a command to relax the spring tension, reducing downward pressure and/or to actively pull the sled 1 up, when the sled 1 encounters an obstacle, allowing the sled 1 to more easily move over the obstacle. The active torsion spring 21 may then be responsive to a command to restore tension, increasing downward pressure, once the obstacle is cleared to maintain the close contact between the sled 1 and the surface. The use of an active spring may enable changing the angle of a sensor or tool relative to the surface being traversed during a traverse. Design considerations with respect to the surfaces being inspected may be used to design the active control system. If the spring 21 is designed to fail closed, the result would be similar to a passive spring and the sled 1 would be pushed toward the surface being inspected. If the spring 21 is designed to fail open, the result would be increased obstacle clearance capabilities. In embodiments, spring 21 may be a combination of passive and active biasing members.
The downward pressure applied by the torsion spring 21 may be supplemented by a spring within the sled 1 further pushing a sensor or tool toward the surface. The downward pressure may be supplemented by one or more magnets in/on the sled 1 pulling the sled 1 toward the surface being traversed. The one or more magnets may be passive magnets that are constantly pulling the sled 1 toward the surface being traversed, facilitating a constant distance between the sled 1 and the surface. The one or magnets may be active magnets where the magnet field strength is controlled based on sensed orientation and/or distance of the sled 1 relative to the inspection surface. In an illustrative and non-limiting example, as the sled 1 lifts up from the surface to clear an obstacle and it starts to roll, the strength of the magnet may be increased to correct the orientation of the sled 1 and draw it back toward the surface.
The connection between each sled 1 and the sled arms 20 may constitute a simple pin or other quick release connect/disconnect attachment. The quick release connection at the pivot points 17 may facilitate attaching and detaching sleds 1 enabling a user to easily change the type of inspection sled attached, swapping sensors, types of sensors, tools, and the like.
In embodiments, as depicted in
In embodiments, the degree of rotation allowed by the pivot points 17 may be adjustable. This may be done using mechanical means such as a physical pin or lock. In embodiments, as shown in
An example sled 1, for example as shown in
In embodiments, the bottom surface of the sled 1 may be shaped, as shown in
In embodiments, as shown in
For a surface having a variable curvature, a chamfer or curve on the bottom surface 2002 of a sled 1 tends to guide the sled 1 to a portion of the variable curvature matching the curvature of the bottom surface 2002. Accordingly, the curved bottom surface 2002 supports maintaining a selected orientation of the sled 1 to the inspection surface. In certain embodiments, the bottom surface 2002 of the sled 1 is not curved, and one or more pivots 16, 17, 18 combined with the down force from the arms 20 combine to support maintaining a selected orientation of the sled 1 to the inspection surface. In some embodiments, the bottom of the sled 1 may be flexible such that the curvature may adapt to the curvature of the surface being traversed.
The material on the bottom of the sled 1 may be chosen to prevent wear on the sled 1, reduce friction between the sled 1 and the surface being traversed, or a combination of both. Materials for the bottom of the sled may include materials such as plastic, metal, or a combination thereof. Materials for the bottom of the sled may include an epoxy coat, a replaceable layer of polytetrafluoroethylene (e.g. Teflon™, acetyl (e.g., Delrin® acetyl resin), ultrafine molecular weight polyethylene (PMW), and the like. In embodiments, as shown in
In embodiments, as shown in
In embodiments, as shown in
Referencing
It can be seen that a variety of sensor and tool types and sizes may be swapped in and out of a single sled 1 using the same sensor installation sleeve 2704. The opening of the chamber 2624 may include the chamfers 2628 to facilitate insertion, release, and positioning of the sensor 2202, and/or the tab 2716 to provide additional compliance to facilitate insertion, release, and positioning of the sensor 2202 and/or to accommodate varying sizes of sensors 2202. Throughout the present disclosure, a sensor 2202 includes any hardware of interest for inserting or coupling to a sled 1, including at least: a sensor, a sensor housing or engagement structure, a tool (e.g., a sprayer, marker, fluid jet, etc.), and/or a tool housing or engagement structure.
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An example acoustic cone 2804 provides a number of features to prevent or remove air bubbles in the cone fluid chamber 2810. An example acoustic cone 2804 includes entry of the fluid chamber 2818 into a vertically upper portion of the cone fluid chamber 2810 (e.g., as the inspection robot 100 is positioned on the inspection surface, and/or in an intended orientation of the inspection robot 100 on the inspection surface, which may toward the front of the robot where the robot is ascending vertically), which tends to drive air bubbles out of the cone fluid chamber 2810. In certain embodiments, the utilization of the acoustic cone 2804, and the ability to minimize sensor coupling and de-coupling events (e.g., a sled can be swapped out without coupling or decoupling the sensor from the cone) contributes to a reduction in leaks and air bubble formation. In certain embodiments, a controller 802 periodically and/or in response to detection of a potential air bubble (e.g., due to an anomalous sensor reading) commands a de-bubbling operation, for example increasing a flow rate of couplant through the cone 2804. In certain embodiments, the arrangements described throughout the present disclosure provide for sufficient couplant delivery to be in the range of 0.06 to 0.08 gallons per minute using a ⅛″ fluid delivery line to the cone 2804. In certain embodiments, nominal couplant flow and pressure is sufficient to prevent the formation of air bubbles in the acoustic cone 2804.
As shown in
Certain embodiments include an apparatus for providing acoustic coupling between a carriage (or sled) mounted sensor and an inspection surface. Example and non-limiting structures to provide acoustic coupling between a carriage mounted sensor and an inspection surface include an acoustic (e.g., an ultra-sonic) sensor mounted on a sled 1, the sled 1 mounted on a payload 2, and the payload 2 coupled to an inspection robot. An example apparatus further includes providing the sled 1 with a number of degrees of freedom of motion, such that the sled 1 can maintain a selected orientation with the inspection surface—including a perpendicular orientation and/or a selected angle of orientation. Additionally or alternatively, the sled 1 is configured to track the surface, for example utilizing a shaped bottom of the sled 1 to match a shape of the inspection surface or a portion of the inspection surface, and/or the sled 1 having an orientation such that, when the bottom surface of the sled 1 is positioned against the inspection surface, the sensor maintains a selected angle with respect to the inspection surface.
Certain additional embodiments of an apparatus for providing acoustic coupling between a carriage mounted sensor and an inspection surface include utilization of a fixed-distance structure that ensures a consistent distance between the sensor and the inspection surface. For example, the sensor may be mounted on a cone, wherein an end of the cone touches the inspection surface and/or is maintained in a fixed position relative to the inspection surface, and the sensor mounted on the cone thereby is provided at a fixed distance from the inspection surface. In certain embodiments, the sensor may be mounted on the cone, and the cone mounted on the sled 1, such that a change-out of the sled 1 can be performed to change out the sensor, without engaging or disengaging the sensor from the cone. In certain embodiments, the cone may be configured such that couplant provided to the cone results in a filled couplant chamber between a transducer of the sensor and the inspection surface. In certain additional embodiments, a couplant entry position for the cone is provided at a vertically upper position of the cone, between the cone tip portion and the sensor mounting end, in an orientation of the inspection robot as it is positioned on the surface, such that couplant flow through the cone tends to prevent bubble formation in the acoustic path between the sensor and the inspection surface. In certain further embodiments, the couplant flow to the cone is adjustable, and is capable, for example, to be increased in response to a determination that a bubble may have formed within the cone and/or within the acoustic path between the sensor and the inspection surface. In certain embodiments, the sled 1 is capable of being lifted, for example with an actuator that lifts an arm 20, and/or that lifts a payload 2, such that a free fluid path for couplant and attendant bubbles to exit the cone and/or the acoustic path is provided. In certain embodiments, operations to eliminate bubbles in the cone and/or acoustic path are performed periodically, episodically (e.g., after a given inspection distance is completed, at the beginning of an inspection run, after an inspection robot pauses for any reason, etc.), and/or in response to an active determination that a bubble may be present in the cone and/or the acoustic path.
An example apparatus provides for low or reduced fluid loss of couplant during inspection operations. Example and non-limiting structures to provide for low or reduced fluid loss include providing for a limited flow path of couplant out of the inspection robot system—for example utilizing a cone having a smaller exit couplant cross-sectional area than a cross-sectional area of a couplant chamber within the cone. In certain embodiments, an apparatus for low or reduced fluid loss of couplant includes structures to provide for a selected down force on a sled 1 which the sensor is mounted on, on an arm 20 carrying a sled 1 which the sensor is mounted on, and/or on a payload 2 which the sled 1 is mounted on. Additionally or alternatively, an apparatus providing for low or reduced fluid loss of couplant includes a selected down force on a cone providing for couplant connectivity between the sensor and the inspection surface—for example a leaf spring or other biasing member within the sled 1 providing for a selected down force directly to the cone. In certain embodiments, low or reduced fluid loss includes providing for an overall fluid flow of between 0.12 to 0.16 gallons per minute to the inspection robot to support at least 10 ultra-sonic sensors. In certain embodiments, low or reduced fluid loss includes providing for an overall fluid flow of less than 50 feet per minute, less than 100 feet per minute, and less than 200 feet per minute fluid velocity in a tubing line feeding couplant to the inspection robot. In certain embodiments, low or reduced fluid loss includes providing sufficient couplant through a ¼″ tubing line to feed couplant to at least 6, at least 8, at least 10, at least 12, or at least 16 ultra-sonic sensors to a vertical height of at least 25 feet, at least 50 feet, at least 100 feet, at least 150 feet, or at least 200 feet. An example apparatus includes a ¼″ feed line to the inspection robot and/or to the payload 2, and a ⅛″ feed line to individual sleds 1 and/or sensors (or acoustic cones associated with the sensors). In certain embodiments, larger and/or smaller diameter feed and individual fluid lines are provided.
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The wheel 200 includes a channel 7 formed between enclosures 3, for example at the center of the wheel 200. In certain embodiments, the channel 7 provides for self-alignment on surfaces such as tubes or pipes. In certain embodiments, the enclosures 3 include one or more chamfered edges or surfaces (e.g., the outer surface in the example of
The wheel 200 may be connected to the shaft using a splined hub 8. This design makes the wheel modular and also prevents it from binding due to corrosion. The splined hub 8 transfers the driving force from the shaft to the wheel. An example wheel 200 includes a magnetic aspect (e.g., magnet 6) capable to hold the robot on the wall, and accept a driving force to propel the robot, the magnet 6 positioned between conductive and/or ferromagnetic plates or enclosures, a channel 7 formed by the enclosures or plates, one or more chamfered and/or shaped edges, and/or a splined hub attachment to a shaft upon which the wheel is mounted.
The robotic vehicle may utilize a magnet-based wheel design that enables the vehicle to attach itself to and operate on ferromagnetic surfaces, including vertical and inverted surfaces (e.g., walls and ceilings). As shown in
The channel 7 may also be utilized to assist in guiding the robotic vehicle along a feature of an inspection surface 500 (e.g., reference
One skilled in the art will appreciate that a great variety of different guiding features 2052 may be used to accommodate the different surface characteristics to which the robotic vehicle may be applied. In certain embodiments, combinations of features (e.g., reference
Additionally or alternatively, guiding features may be selectable for the inspection surface—for example multiple enclosures 3 (and/or multiple wheel assemblies including the magnet 6 and enclosure 3) may be present for an inspection operation, and a suitable one of the multiple enclosures 3 provided according to the curvature of surfaces present, the spacing of pipes, the presence of obstacles, or the like. In certain embodiments, an enclosure 3 may have an outer layer (e.g., a removable layer—not shown)—for example a snap on, slide over, coupled with set screws, or other coupling mechanism for the outer layer, such that just an outer portion of the enclosure is changeable to provide the guiding features. In certain embodiments, the outer layer may be a non-ferrous material (e.g., making installation and changes of the outer layer more convenient in the presence to the magnet 6, which may complicate quick changes of a fully ferromagnetic enclosure 3), such as a plastic, elastomeric material, aluminum, or the like. In certain embodiments, the outer layer may be a 3-D printable material (e.g., plastics, ceramics, or any other 3-D printable material) where the outer layer can be constructed at an inspection location after the environment of the inspection surface 500 is determined. An example includes the controller 802 (e.g., reference
An example splined hub 8 design of the wheel assembly may enable modular re-configuration of the wheel, enabling each component to be easily switched out to accommodate different operating environments (e.g., ferromagnetic surfaces with different permeability, different physical characteristics of the surface, and the like). For instance, enclosures with different guiding features may be exchanged to accommodate different surface features, such as where one wheel configuration works well for a first surface characteristic (e.g., a wall with tightly spaced small pipes) and a second wheel configuration works well for a second surface characteristic (e.g., a wall with large pipes). The magnet 6 may also be exchanged to adjust the magnetic strength available between the wheel assembly and the surface, such as to accommodate different dimensional characteristics of the surface (e.g., features that prevent close proximity between the magnet 6 and a surface ferromagnetic material), different permeability of the surface material, and the like. Further, one or both enclosures 3 may be made of ferromagnetic material, such as to direct the flux lines of the magnet toward a surface upon which the robotic vehicle is riding, to direct the flux lines of the magnet away from other components of the robotic vehicle, and the like, enabling the modular wheel configuration to be further configurable for different ferromagnetic environments and applications.
The present disclosure provides for robotic vehicles that include a sensor sled components, permitting evaluation of particular attributes of the structure. As shown in the embodiments depicted in
The sleds of the present disclosure may slide on a flat or curved surface and may perform various types of material testing using the sensors incorporated into the sled. The bottom surface 13 of the sled may be fabricated from numerous types of materials which may be chosen by the user to fit the shape of the surface. Note that depending on the surface condition, a removeable, replaceable, and/or sacrificial layer of thin material may be positioned on the bottom surface of the sled to reduce friction, create a better seal, and protect the bottom of the sled from physical damage incurred by the surface. In certain embodiments, the sled may include ramp surfaces 11 at the front and back of the sled. The ramp and available pivot point accommodation 9 (described below—for example an option for pivot point 17) give the sled the ability to travel over obstacles. This feature allows the sled to work in industrial environments with surfaces that are not clean and smooth. In certain embodiments, one or more apertures 10 may be provided, for example to allow a sacrificial layer to be fixed to the bottom of the sled 1.
In summary, an example robotic vehicle 100 includes sensor sleds having the following properties capable of providing a number of sensors for inspecting a selected object or surface, including a soft or hard bottom surface, including a bottom surface that matches an inspection surface (e.g., shape, contact material hardness, etc.), having a curved surface and/or ramp for obstacle clearance (including a front ramp and/or a back ramp), includes a column and/or couplant insert (e.g., a cone positioned within the sled, where the sensor couples to the cone) that retains couplant, improves acoustic coupling between the sensor and the surface, and/or assists in providing a consistent distance between the surface and the sensor; a plurality of pivot points between the main body 102 and the sled 1 to provide for surface orientation, improved obstacle traversal, and the like, a sled 1 having a mounting position configured to receive multiple types of sensors, and/or magnets in the sled to provide for control of downforce and/or stabilized positioning between the sensor and the surface. In certain implementations of the present invention, it is advantageous to not only be able to adjust spacing between sensors but also to adjust their angular position relative to the surface being inspected. The present invention may achieve this goal by implementing systems having several translational and rotational degrees of freedom.
Referencing
During operation, an example system 100 encounters obstacles on the surface of the structure being evaluated, and the pivots 16, 17, 18 provide for movement of the arm 20 to traverse the obstacle. In certain embodiments, the system 100 is a modular design allowing various degrees of freedom of movement of sleds 1, either in real-time (e.g., during an inspection operation) and/or at configuration time (e.g., an operator or controller adjusts sensor or sled positions, down force, ramp shapes of sleds, pivot angles of pivots 16, 17, 18 in the system 100, etc.) before an inspection operation or a portion of an inspection operation, and including at least the following degrees of freedom: translation (e.g., payload 2 position relative to the housing 102); translation of the sled arm 20 relative to the payload 2, rotation of the sled arm 20, rotation of the sled arm 20 mount on the payload 2, and/or rotation of the sled 1 relative to the sled arm 20.
In certain embodiments, a system 100 allows for any one or more of the following adjustments: spacing between sensors (perpendicular to the direction of inspection motion, and/or axially along the direction of the inspection motion); adjustments of an angle of the sensor to an outer diameter of a tube or pipe; momentary or longer term displacement to traverse obstacles; provision of an arbitrary number and positioning of sensors; etc.
An example inspection robot 100 may utilize downforce capabilities for sensor sleds 1, such as to control proximity and lateral stabilization of sensors. For instance, an embedded magnet (not shown) positioned within the sled 1 may provide passive downforce that increases stabilization for sensor alignment. In another example, the embedded magnet may be an electromagnet providing active capability (e.g., responsive to commands from a controller 802—reference
An example system 100 includes an apparatus 800 (reference
In certain embodiments, the inspection robot 100 has alternatively or additionally, payload(s) 2 configured to provide for marking of aspects of the inspection surface 500 (e.g., a paint sprayer, an invisible or UV ink sprayer, and/or a virtual marking device configured to mark the inspection surface 500 in a memory location of a computing device but not physically), to repair a portion of the inspection surface 500 (e.g., apply a coating, provide a welding operation, apply a temperature treatment, install a patch, etc.), and/or to provide for a cleaning operation. Referencing
In certain embodiments, a “front” payload 2 includes sensors configured to determine properties of the inspection surface, and a “rear” payload 2 includes a responsive payload, such as an enhanced sensor, a cleaning device such as a sprayer, scrubber, and/or scraper, a marking device, and/or a repair device. The front-back arrangement of payloads 2 provides for adjustments, cleaning, repair, and/or marking of the inspection surface 502 in a single run—for example where an anomaly, gouge, weld line, area for repair, previously repaired area, past inspection area, etc., is sensed by the front payload 2, the anomaly can be marked, cleaned, repaired, etc. without requiring an additional run of the inspection robot 100 or a later visit by repair personnel. In another example, a first calibration of sensors for the front payload may be determined to be incorrect (e.g., a front ultra-sonic sensor calibrated for a particular coating thickness present on the pipes 502) and a rear sensor can include an adjusted calibration to account for the detected aspect (e.g., the rear sensor calibrated for the observed thickness of the coating). In another example, certain enhanced sensing operations may be expensive, time consuming, consume more resources (e.g., a gamma ray source, an alternate coupling such as a non-water or oil-based acoustic coupler, require a high energy usage, require greater processing resources, and/or incur usage charges to an inspection client for any reason) and the inspection robot 100 can thereby only utilize the enhanced sensing operations selectively and in response to observed conditions.
Referencing
An example controller 802 includes an inspection data circuit 804 that interprets inspection data 812—for example sensed information from sensors mounted on the payload and determining aspects of the inspection surface 500, the status, deployment, and/or control of marking devices, cleaning devices, and/or repair devices, and/or post-processed information from any of these such as a wall thickness determined from ultra-sonic data, temperature information determined from imaging data, and the like. The example controller 802 further includes a robot positioning circuit 806 that interprets position data 814. An example robot positioning circuit 806 determines position data by any available method, including at least triangulating (or other positioning methods) from a number of available wireless devices (e.g., routers available in the area of the inspection surface 500, intentionally positioned transmitters/transceivers, etc.), a distance of travel measurement (e.g., a wheel rotation counter which may be mechanical, electro-magnetic, visual, etc.; a barometric pressure measurement; direct visual determinations such as radar, Lidar, or the like), a reference measurement (e.g., determined from distance to one or more reference points); a time-based measurement (e.g., based upon time and travel speed); and/or a dead reckoning measurement such as integration of detection movements. In the example of
The example controller 802 further includes an inspection visualization circuit 810 that determines the inspection map 818 in response to the inspection data 812 and the position data 814, for example using post-processed information from the processed data circuit 808. In a further example, the inspection visualization circuit 810 determines the inspection map 818 in response to an inspection visualization request 820, for example from a client computing device 826. In the example, the client computing device 826 may be communicatively coupled to the controller 802 over the internet, a network, through the operations of a web application, and the like. In certain embodiments, the client computing device 826 securely logs in to control access to the inspection map 818, and the inspection visualization circuit 810 may prevent access to the inspection map 818, and/or provide only portions of the inspection map 818, depending upon the successful login from the client computing device 826, the authorizations for a given user of the client computing device 826, and the like.
In certain embodiments, the inspection visualization circuit 810 and/or inspection data circuit 804 further accesses system data 816, such as a time of the inspection, a calendar date of the inspection, the robot 100 utilized during the inspection and/or the configurations of the robot 100, a software version utilized during the inspection, calibration and/or sensor processing options selected during the inspection, and/or any other data that may be of interest in characterizing the inspection, that may be requested by a client, that may be required by a policy and/or regulation, and/or that may be utilized for improvement to subsequent inspections on the same inspection surface 500 or another inspection surface. In certain embodiments, the processed data circuit 808 combines the system data 816 with the processed data for the inspection data 812 and/or the position data 814, and/or the inspection visualization circuit incorporates the system data 816 or portions thereof into the inspection map 818. In certain embodiments, any or all aspects of the inspection data 812, position data 814, and/or system data 816 may be stored as meta-data (e.g., not typically available for display), may be accessible in response to prompts, further selections, and/or requests from the client computing device 826, and/or may be utilized in certain operations with certain identifiable aspects removed (e.g., to remove personally identifiable information or confidential aspects) such as post-processing to improve future inspection operations, reporting for marketing or other purposes, or the like.
In certain embodiments, the inspection visualization circuit 810 is further responsive to a user focus value 822 to update the inspection map 818 and/or to provide further information (e.g., focus data 824) to a user, such as a user of the client computing device 826. For example, a user focus value 822 (e.g., a user mouse position, menu selection, touch screen indication, keystroke, or other user input value indicating that a portion of the inspection map 818 has received the user focus) indicates that a location 702 of the inspection map 818 has the user focus, and the inspection visualization circuit 810 generates the focus data 824 in response to the user focus value 822, including potentially the location 702 indicated by the user focus value 822.
Referencing
Referencing
In certain embodiments, an inspection map 818 (or display) provides an indication of how long a section of the inspection surface 500 is expected to continue under nominal operations, how much material should be added to a section of the inspection surface 500 (e.g., a repair coating or other material), and/or the type of repair that is needed (e.g., wall thickness correction, replacement of a coating, fixing a hole, breach, rupture, etc.).
Referencing
Additionally or alternatively, the facility wear model 4104 includes data from offset facilities, systems, or plants (e.g., a similar system that operates a similar duty cycle of relevant temperatures, materials, process flow streams, vibration environment, etc. for the inspection surface 500; and which may include inspection data, repair data, and/or operational data from the offset system), canonical data (e.g., pre-entered data based on estimates, modeling, industry standards, or other indirect sources), data from other facilities from the same data client (e.g., an operator, original equipment manufacturer, owner, etc. for the inspection surface), and/or user-entered data (e.g., from an inspection operator and/or client of the data) such as assumptions to be utilized, rates of return for financial parameters, policies or regulatory values, and/or characterizations of experience in similar systems that may be understood based on the experience of the user. Accordingly, operations of the facility wear circuit 4102 can provide an overview of repair operations recommended for the inspection surface 500, including specific time frame estimates of when such repairs will be required, as well as a number of options for repair operations and how long they will last.
In certain embodiments, the facility wear value 4106, and/or facility wear value 4106 displayed on an inspection map 818, allows for strategic planning of repair operations, and/or coordinating the life cycle of the facility including the inspection surface 500—for example performing a short-term repair at a given time, which might not be intuitively the “best” repair operation, but in view of a larger repair cycle that is upcoming for the facility. Additionally or alternatively, we facility wear value 4106 allows for a granular review of the inspection surface 500—for example to understand operational conditions that drive high wear, degradation, and/or failure conditions of aspects of the inspection surface 500. In certain embodiments, repair data and/or the facility wear value 4106 are provided in a context distinct from an inspection map 818—for example as part of an inspection report (not shown), as part of a financial output related to the system having the inspection surface (e.g., considering the costs and shutdown times implicated by repairs, and/or risks associated with foregoing a repair).
Referencing
In embodiments, the robotic vehicle may incorporate a number of sensors distributed across a number of sensor sleds 1, such as with a single sensor mounted on a single sensor sled 1, a number of sensors mounted on a single sensor sled 1, a number of sensor sleds 1 arranged in a linear configuration perpendicular to the direction of motion (e.g., side-to-side across the robotic vehicle), arranged in a linear configuration along the direction of motion (e.g., multiple sensors on a sensor sled 1 or multiple sensor sleds 1 arranged to cover the same surface location one after the other as the robotic vehicle travels). Additionally or alternatively, a number of sensors may be arranged in a two-dimensional surface area, such as by providing sensor coverage in a distributed manner horizontally and/or vertically (e.g., in the direction of travel), including offset sensor positions (e.g., reference
In certain embodiments, two payloads 2 side-by-side allow for a wide horizontal coverage of sensing for a given travel of the inspection robot 100—for example as depicted in
The horizontal configuration of sleds 1 (and sensors) is selectable to achieve the desired inspection coverage. For example, sleds 1 may be positioned to provide a sled running on each of a selected number of pipes of an inspection surface, positioned such that several sleds 1 combine on a single pipe of an inspection surface (e.g., providing greater radial inspection resolution for the pipe), and/or at selected horizontal distances from each other (e.g., to provide 1 inch resolution, 2 inch resolution, 3 inch resolution, etc.). In certain embodiments, the degrees of freedom of the sensor sleds 1 (e.g., from pivots 16, 17, 18) allow for distributed sleds 1 to maintain contact and orientation with complex surfaces.
In certain embodiments, sleds 1 are articulable to a desired horizontal position. For example, quick disconnects may be provided (pins, claims, set screws, etc.) that allow for the sliding of a sled 1 to any desired location on a payload 2, allowing for any desired horizontal positioning of the sleds 1 on the payload 2. Additionally or alternatively, sleds 1 may be movable horizontally during inspection operations. For example, a worm gear or other actuator may be coupled to the sled 1 and operable (e.g., by a controller 802) to position the sled 1 at a desired horizontal location. In certain embodiments, only certain ones of the sleds 1 are moveable during inspection operations—for example outer sleds 1 for maneuvering past obstacles. In certain embodiments, all of the sleds 1 are moveable during inspection operations—for example to support arbitrary inspection resolution (e.g., horizontal resolution, and/or vertical resolution), to configure the inspection trajectory of the inspection surface, or for any other reason. In certain embodiments, the payload 2 is horizontally moveable before or during inspection operations. In certain embodiments, an operator configures the payload 2 and/or sled 1 horizontal positions before inspection operations (e.g., before or between inspection runs). In certain embodiments, an operator or a controller 802 configures the payload 2 and/or sled 1 horizontal positions during inspection operations. In certain embodiments, an operator can configure the payload 2 and/or sled 1 horizontal positions remotely, for example communicating through a tether or wirelessly to the inspection robot.
The vertical configuration of sleds 1 is selectable to achieve the desired inspection coverage (e.g., horizontal resolution, vertical resolution, and/or redundancy). For example, referencing
In another example, referencing
It can be seen that sensors may be modularly configured on the robotic vehicle to collect data on specific locations across the surface of travel (e.g., on a top surface of an object, on the side of an object, between objects, and the like), repeat collection of data on the same surface location (e.g., two sensors serially collecting data from the same location, either with the same sensor type or different sensor types), provide predictive sensing from a first sensor to determine if a second sensor should take data on the same location at a second time during a single run of the robotic vehicle (e.g., an ultra-sonic sensor mounted on a leading sensor sled taking data on a location determines that a gamma-ray measurement should be taken for the same location by a sensor mounted on a trailing sensor sled configured to travel over the same location as the leading sensor), provide redundant sensor measurements from a plurality of sensors located in leading and trailing locations (e.g., located on the same or different sensor sleds to repeat sensor data collection), and the like.
In certain embodiments, the robotic vehicle includes sensor sleds with one sensor and sensor sleds with a plurality of sensors. A number of sensors arranged on a single sensor sled may be arranged with the same sensor type across the direction of robotic vehicle travel (e.g., perpendicular to the direction of travel, or “horizontal”) to increase coverage of that sensor type (e.g., to cover different surfaces of an object, such as two sides of a pipe), arranged with the same sensor type along the direction of robotic vehicle travel (e.g., parallel to the direction of travel, or “vertical”) to provide redundant coverage of that sensor type over the same location (e.g., to ensure data coverage, to enable statistical analysis based on multiple measurements over the same location), arranged with a different sensor type across the direction of robotic vehicle travel to capture a diversity of sensor data in side-by-side locations along the direction of robotic vehicle travel (e.g., providing both ultra-sonic and conductivity measurements at side-by-side locations), arranged with a different sensor type along the direction of robotic vehicle travel to provide predictive sensing from a leading sensor to a trailing sensor (e.g., running a trailing gamma-ray sensor measurement only if a leading ultra-sonic sensor measurement indicates the need to do so), combinations of any of these, and the like. The modularity of the robotic vehicle may permit exchanging sensor sleds with the same sensor configuration (e.g., replacement due to wear or failure), different sensor configurations (e.g., adapting the sensor arrangement for different surface applications), and the like.
Providing for multiple simultaneous sensor measurements over a surface area, whether for taking data from the same sensor type or from different sensor types, provides the ability to maximize the collection of sensor data in a single run of the robotic vehicle. If the surface over which the robotic vehicle was moving were perfectly flat, the sensor sled could cover a substantial surface with an array of sensors. However, the surface over which the robotic vehicle travels may be highly irregular, and have obstacles over which the sensor sleds must adjust, and so the preferred embodiment for the sensor sled is relatively small with a highly flexible orientation, as described herein, where a plurality of sensor sleds is arranged to cover an area along the direction of robotic vehicle travel. Sensors may be distributed amongst the sensor sleds as described for individual sensor sleds (e.g., single sensor per sensor sled, multiple sensors per sensor sled (arranged as described herein)), where total coverage is achieved through a plurality of sensor sleds mounted to the robotic vehicle. One such embodiment, as introduced herein, such as depicted in
Although
Referring to
In another example, the trailing sensor sled array 2008 may provide a greater distance for functions that would benefit the system by being isolated from the sensors in the forward end of the robotic vehicle. For instance, the robotic vehicle may provide for a marking device (e.g., visible marker, UV marker, and the like) to mark the surface when a condition alert is detected (e.g., detecting corrosion or erosion in a pipe at a level exceeding a predefined threshold, and marking the pipe with visible paint).
Embodiments with multiple sensor sled connector assemblies provide configurations and area distribution of sensors that may enable greater flexibility in sensor data taking and processing, including alignment of same-type sensor sleds allowing for repeated measurements (e.g., the same sensor used in a leading sensor sled as in a trailing sensor sled, such as for redundancy or verification in data taking when leading and trailing sleds are co-aligned), alignment of different-type sensor sleds for multiple different sensor measurements of the same path (e.g., increase the number of sensor types taking data, have the lead sensor provide data to the processor to determine whether to activate the trailing sensor (e.g., ultra-sonic/gamma-ray, and the like)), off-set alignment of same-type sensor sleds for increased coverage when leading and trailing sleds are off-set from one another with respect to travel path, off-set alignment of different-type sensor sleds for trailing sensor sleds to measure surfaces that have not been disturbed by leading sensor sleds (e.g., when the leading sensor sled is using a couplant), and the like.
The modular design of the robotic vehicle may provide for a system flexible to different applications and surfaces (e.g., customizing the robot and modules of the robot ahead of time based on the application, and/or during an inspection operation), and to changing operational conditions (e.g., flexibility to changes in surface configurations and conditions, replacement for failures, reconfiguration based on sensed conditions), such as being able to change out sensors, sleds, assemblies of sleds, number of sled arrays, and the like.
An example inspection robot utilizes a magnet-based wheel design (e.g., reference
Referencing
Throughout the present description, certain orientation parameters are described as “horizontal,” “perpendicular,” and/or “across” the direction of travel of the inspection robot, and/or described as “vertical,” “parallel,” and/or in line with the direction of travel of the inspection robot. It is specifically contemplated herein that the inspection robot may be travelling vertically, horizontally, at oblique angles, and/or on curves relative to a ground-based absolute coordinate system. Accordingly, except where the context otherwise requires, any reference to the direction of travel of the inspection robot is understood to include any orientation of the robot—such as an inspection robot traveling horizontally on a floor may have a “vertical” direction for purposes of understanding sled distribution that is in a “horizontal” absolute direction. Additionally, the “vertical” direction of the inspection robot may be a function of time during inspection operations and/or position on an inspection surface—for example as an inspection robot traverses over a curved surface. In certain embodiments, where gravitational considerations or other context based aspects may indicate—vertical indicates an absolute coordinate system vertical—for example in certain embodiments where couplant flow into a cone is utilized to manage bubble formation in the cone. In certain embodiments, a trajectory through the inspection surface of a given sled may be referenced as a “horizontal inspection lane”—for example, the track that the sled takes traversing through the inspection surface.
Certain embodiments include an apparatus for acoustic inspection of an inspection surface with arbitrary resolution. Arbitrary resolution, as utilized herein, includes resolution of features in geometric space with a selected resolution—for example resolution of features (e.g., cracks, wall thickness, anomalies, etc.) at a selected spacing in horizontal space (e.g., perpendicular to a travel direction of an inspection robot) and/or vertical space (e.g., in a travel direction of an inspection robot). While resolution is described in terms of the travel motion of an inspection robot, resolution may instead be considered in any coordinate system, such as cylindrical or spherical coordinates, and/or along axes unrelated to the motion of an inspection robot. It will be understood that the configurations of an inspection robot and operations described in the present disclosure can support arbitrary resolution in any coordinate system, with the inspection robot providing sufficient resolution as operated, in view of the target coordinate system. Accordingly, for example, where inspection resolution of 6-inches is desired in a target coordinate system that is diagonal to the travel direction of the inspection robot, the inspection robot and related operations described throughout the present disclosure can support whatever resolution is required (whether greater than 6-inches, less than 6-inches, or variable resolution depending upon the location over the inspection surface) to facilitate the 6-inch resolution of the target coordinate system. It can be seen that an inspection robot and/or related operations capable of achieving an arbitrary resolution in the coordinates of the movement of the inspection robot can likewise achieve arbitrary resolution in any coordinate system for the mapping of the inspection surface. For clarity of description, apparatus and operations to support an arbitrary resolution are described in view of the coordinate system of the movement of an inspection robot.
An example apparatus to support acoustic inspection of an inspection surface includes an inspection robot having a payload and a number of sleds mounted thereon, with the sleds each having at least one acoustic sensor mounted thereon. Accordingly, the inspection robot is capable of simultaneously determining acoustic parameters at a range of positions horizontally. Sleds may be positioned horizontally at a selected spacing, including providing a number of sleds to provide sensors positioned radially around several positions on a pipe or other surface feature of the inspection surface. In certain embodiments, vertical resolution is supported according to the sampling rate of the sensors, and/or the movement speed of the inspection robot. Additionally or alternatively, the inspection robot may have vertically displaced payloads, having an additional number of sleds mounted thereon, with the sleds each having at least one acoustic sensor mounted thereon. The utilization of additional vertically displaced payloads can provide additional resolution, either in the horizontal direction (e.g., where sleds of the vertically displaced payload(s) are offset from sleds in the first payload(s)) and/or in the vertical direction (e.g., where sensors on sleds of the vertically displaced payload(s) are sampling such that sensed parameters are vertically offset from sensors on sleds of the first payload(s)). Accordingly, it can be seen that, even where physical limitations of sled spacing, numbers of sensors supported by a given payload, or other considerations limit horizontal resolution for a given payload, horizontal resolution can be enhanced through the utilization of additional vertically displaced payloads. In certain embodiments, an inspection robot can perform another inspection run over a same area of the inspection surface, for example with sleds tracking in an offset line from a first run, with positioning information to ensure that both horizontal and/or vertical sensed parameters are offset from the first run.
Accordingly, an apparatus is provided that achieves significant resolution improvements, horizontally and/or vertically, over previously known systems. Additionally or alternatively, an inspection robot performs inspection operations at distinct locations on a descent operation than on an ascent operation, providing for additional resolution improvements without increasing a number of run operations required to perform the inspection (e.g., where an inspection robot ascends an inspection surface, and descends the inspection surface as a normal part of completing the inspection run). In certain embodiments, an apparatus is configured to perform multiple run operations to achieve the selected resolution. It can be seen that the greater the number of inspection runs required to achieve a given spatial resolution, the longer the down time for the system (e.g., an industrial system) being inspected (where a shutdown of the system is required to perform the inspection), the longer the operating time and greater the cost of the inspection, and/or the greater chance that a failure occurs during the inspection. Accordingly, even where multiple inspection runs are required, a reduction in the number of the inspection runs is beneficial.
In certain embodiments, an inspection robot includes a low fluid loss couplant system, enhancing the number of sensors that are supportable in a given inspection run, thereby enhancing available sensing resolution. In certain embodiments, an inspection robot includes individual down force support for sleds and/or sensors, providing for reduced fluid loss, reduced off-nominal sensing operations, and/or increasing the available number of sensors supportable on a payload, thereby enhancing available sensing resolution. In certain embodiments, an inspection robot includes a single couplant connection for a payload, and/or a single couplant connection for the inspection robot, thereby enhancing reliability and providing for a greater number of sensors on a payload and/or on the inspection robot that are available for inspections under commercially reasonable operations (e.g., configurable for inspection operations with reasonable reliability, checking for leaks, expected to operate without problems over the course of inspection operations, and/or do not require a high level of skill or expensive test equipment to ensure proper operation). In certain embodiments, an inspection robot includes acoustic sensors coupled to acoustic cones, enhancing robust detection operations (e.g., a high percentage of valid sensing data, ease of acoustic coupling of a sensor to an inspection surface, etc.), reducing couplant fluid losses, and/or easing integration of sensors with sleds, thereby supporting an increased number of sensors per payload and/or inspection robot, and enhancing available sensing resolution. In certain embodiments, an inspection robot includes utilizing water as a couplant, thereby reducing fluid pumping losses, reducing risks due to minor leaks within a multiple plumbing line system to support multiple sensors, and/or reducing the impact (environmental, hazard, clean-up, etc.) of performing multiple inspection runs and/or performing an inspection operation with a multiplicity of acoustic sensors operating.
Referencing
The example procedure 3300 further includes an operation 3306 to perform an inspection operation of an inspection surface with arbitrary resolution. For example, operation 3306 includes at least: operating the number of horizontally displaced sensors to achieve the arbitrary resolution; operating vertically displaced payloads in a scheduled manner (e.g., out of phase with the first payload thereby inspecting a vertically distinct set of locations of the inspection surface); operating vertically displaced payloads to enhance horizontal inspection resolution; performing an inspection on a first horizontal track on an ascent, and a second horizontal track distinct from the first horizontal track on a descent; performing an inspection on a first vertical set of points on an ascent, and on a second vertical set of points on a descent (which may be on the same or a distinct horizontal track); and/or performing a plurality of inspection runs where the horizontal and/or vertical inspection positions of the multiple runs are distinct from the horizontal and/or vertical inspection positions of a first run. Certain operations of the example procedure 3300 may be performed by a controller 802.
While operations of procedure 3300, and an apparatus to provide for arbitrary or selected resolution inspections of a system are described in terms of acoustic sensing, it will be understood that arbitrary or selected resolution of other sensed parameters are contemplated herein. In certain embodiments, acoustic sensing provides specific challenges that are addressed by certain aspects of the present disclosure. However, sensing of any parameter, such as temperature, magnetic or electro-magnetic sensing, infra-red detection, UV detection, composition determinations, and other sensed parameters also present certain challenges addressed by certain aspects of the present disclosure. For example, the provision of multiple sensors in a single inspection run at determinable locations, the utilization of an inspection robot (e.g., instead of a person positioned in the inspection space), including an inspection robot with position sensing, and/or the reduction of sensor interfaces including electrical and communication interfaces, provides for ease of sensing for any sensed parameters at a selected resolution. In certain embodiments, a system utilizes apparatuses and operations herein to achieve arbitrary resolution for acoustic sensing. In certain embodiments, a system additionally or alternatively utilizes apparatuses and operations herein to achieve arbitrary resolution for any sensed parameter.
Referencing
The example controller 802 further includes a sensor configuration circuit 3404 structured to determine a configuration adjustment 3406 for a trailing sensor. Example and non-limiting trailing sensors include any sensor operating over the same or a substantially similar portion of the inspection surface as the lead sensor, at a later point in time. A trailing sensor may be a sensor positioned on a payload behind the payload having the lead sensor, a physically distinct sensor from the lead sensor operating over the same or a substantially similar portion of the inspection surface after the lead sensor, and/or a sensor that is physically the same sensor as the lead sensor, but reconfigured in some aspect (e.g., sampling parameters, calibrations, inspection robot rate of travel change, etc.). A portion that is substantially similar includes a sensor operating on a sled in the same horizontal track (e.g., in the direction of inspection robot movement) as the lead sensor, a sensor that is sensing a portion of the inspection sensor that is expected to determine the same parameters (e.g., wall thickness in a given area) of the inspection surface as that sensed by the lead sensor, and/or a sensor operating in a space of the inspection area where it is expected that determinations for the lead sensor would be effective in adjusting the trailing sensor. Example and non-limiting determinations for the lead sensor to be effective in adjusting the trailing sensor include pipe thickness determinations for a same pipe and/or same cooling tower, where pipe thickness expectations may affect the calibrations or other settings utilized by the lead and trailing sensors; determination of a coating thickness where the trailing sensor operates in an environment that has experienced similar conditions (e.g., temperatures, flow rates, operating times, etc.) as the conditions experienced by the environment sensed by the lead sensor; and/or any other sensed parameter affecting the calibrations or other settings utilized by the lead and trailing sensors where knowledge gained by the lead sensor could be expected to provide information utilizable for the trailing sensor.
Example and non-limiting configuration adjustments 3406 include changing of sensing parameters such as cut-off times to observe peak values for ultra-sonic processing, adjustments of rationality values for ultra-sonic processing, enabling of trailing sensors or additional trailing sensors (e.g., X-ray, gamma ray, high resolution camera operations, etc.), adjustment of a sensor sampling rate (e.g., faster or slower), adjustment of fault cut-off values (e.g., increase or decrease fault cutoff values), adjustment of any transducer configurable properties (e.g., voltage, waveform, gain, filtering operations, and/or return detection algorithm), and/or adjustment of a sensor range or resolution value (e.g., increase a range in response to a lead sensing value being saturated or near a range limit, decrease a range in response to a lead sensing value being within a specified range window, and/or increase or decrease a resolution of the trailing sensor). In certain embodiments, a configuration adjustment 3406 to adjust a sampling rate of a trailing sensor includes changing a movement speed of an inspection robot. Example and non-limiting configuration adjustments include any parameters described in relation to
Referencing
In certain embodiments, lead inspection data 3402 includes ultra-sonic information such as processed ultra-sonic information from a sensor, and the sensor configuration circuit 3404 determines to utilize a consumable, slower, and/or more expensive sensing, repair, and/or marking operation by providing a configuration adjustment 3406 instructing a trailing sensor to operate, or to change nominal operations, in response to the lead inspection data 3402. For example, lead inspection data 3402 may indicate a thin wall, and sensor configuration circuit 3404 provides the configuration adjustment 3406 to alter a trailing operation such as additional sensing with a more capable sensor (e.g., a more expensive or capable ultra-sonic sensor, an X-ray sensor, a gamma ray sensor, or the like) and/or to operate a repair or marking tool (e.g., which may have a limited or consumable amount of coating material, marking material, or the like) at the location determined to have the thin wall. Accordingly, expense, time, and/or operational complication can be added to inspection operations in a controlled manner according to the lead inspection data 3402.
An example apparatus is disclosed to perform an inspection of an industrial surface. Many industrial surfaces are provided in hazardous locations, including without limitation where heavy or dangerous mechanical equipment operates, in the presence of high temperature environments, in the presence of vertical hazards, in the presence of corrosive chemicals, in the presence of high pressure vessels or lines, in the presence of high voltage electrical conduits, equipment connected to and/or positioned in the vicinity of an electrical power connection, in the presence of high noise, in the presence of confined spaces, and/or with any other personnel risk feature present. Accordingly, inspection operations often include a shutdown of related equipment, and/or specific procedures to mitigate fall hazards, confined space operations, lockout-tagout procedures, or the like. In certain embodiments, the utilization of an inspection robot allows for an inspection without a shutdown of the related equipment. In certain embodiments, the utilization of an inspection robot allows for a shutdown with a reduced number of related procedures that would be required if personnel were to perform the inspection. In certain embodiments, the utilization of an inspection robot provides for a partial shutdown to mitigate some factors that may affect the inspection operations and/or put the inspection robot at risk, but allows for other operations to continue. For example, it may be acceptable to position the inspection robot in the presence of high pressure or high voltage components, but operations that generate high temperatures may be shut down.
In certain embodiments, the utilization of an inspection robot provides additional capabilities for operation. For example, an inspection robot having positional sensing within an industrial environment can request shutdown of only certain aspects of the industrial system that are related to the current position of the inspection robot, allowing for partial operations as the inspection is performed. In another example, the inspection robot may have sensing capability, such as temperature sensing, where the inspection robot can opportunistically inspect aspects of the industrial system that are available for inspection, while avoiding other aspects or coming back to inspect those aspects when operational conditions allow for the inspection. Additionally, in certain embodiments, it is acceptable to risk the industrial robot (e.g., where shutting down operations exceed the cost of the loss of the industrial robot) to perform an inspection that has a likelihood of success, where such risks would not be acceptable for personnel. In certain embodiments, a partial shutdown of a system has lower cost than a full shutdown, and/or can allow the system to be kept in a condition where restart time, startup operations, etc. are at a lower cost or reduced time relative to a full shutdown. In certain embodiments, the enhanced cost, time, and risk of performing additional operations beyond mere shutdown, such as compliance with procedures that would be required if personnel were to perform the inspection, can be significant.
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Example and non-limiting plant position values 3614 include the robot position information 3604 integrated within a definition of the plant space, such as the inspection surface, a defined map of a portion of the plant or industrial system, and/or the plant position definition 3606. In certain embodiments, the plant space is predetermined, for example as a map interpreted by the controller 802 and/or pre-loaded in a data file describing the space of the plant, inspection surface, and/or a portion of the plant or industrial surface. In certain embodiments, the plant position definition 3606 is created in real-time by the position definition circuit 3602—for example by integrating the position information 3604 traversed by the inspection robot, and/or by creating a virtual space that includes the position information 3604 traversed by the inspection robot. For example, the position definition circuit 3602 may map out the position information 3604 over time, and create the plant position definition 3606 as the aggregate of the position information 3604, and/or create a virtual surface encompassing the aggregated plant position values 3614 onto the surface. In certain embodiments, the position definition circuit 3602 accepts a plant shape value 3608 as an input (e.g., a cylindrical tank being inspected by the inspection robot having known dimensions), deduces the plant shape value 3608 from the aggregated position information 3604 (e.g., selecting from one of a number of simple or available shapes that are consistent with the aggregated plant position definition 3606), and/or prompts a user (e.g., an inspection operator and/or a client for the data) to select one of a number of available shapes to determine the plant position definition 3606.
The example apparatus 3600 includes a data positioning circuit 3610 that interprets inspection data 3612 and correlates the inspection data 3612 to the position information 3604 and/or to the plant position values 3614. Example and non-limiting inspection data 3612 includes: sensed data by an inspection robot; environmental parameters such as ambient temperature, pressure, time-of-day, availability and/or strength of wireless communications, humidity, etc.; image data, sound data, and/or video data taken during inspection operations; metadata such as an inspection number, customer number, operator name, etc.; setup parameters such as the spacing and positioning of sleds, payloads, mounting configuration of sensors, and the like; calibration values for sensors and sensor processing; and/or operational parameters such as fluid flow rates, voltages, pivot positions for the payload and/or sleds, inspection robot speed values, downforce parameters, etc. In certain embodiments, the data positioning circuit 3610 determines the positional information 3604 corresponding to inspection data 3612 values, and includes the positional information 3604 as an additional parameter with the inspection data 3612 values and/or stores a correspondence table or other data structure to relate the positional information 3604 to the inspection data values 3612. In certain embodiments, the data positioning circuit 3610 additionally or alternatively determines the plant position definition 3606, and includes a plant position value 3614 (e.g., as a position within the plant as defined by the plant position definition 3606) as an additional parameter with the inspection data 3612 values and/or stores a correspondence table or other data structure to relate the plant position values 3614 to the inspection data values 3612. In certain embodiments, the data positioning circuit 3610 creates position informed inspection data 3616, including one or more, or all, aspects of the inspection data 3612 correlated to the position information 3604 and/or to the plant position values 3614.
In certain embodiments, for example where dead reckoning operations are utilized to provide position information 3604 over a period of time, and then a corrected position is available through a feedback position measurement, the data positioning circuit 3610 updates the position informed inspection data 3616—for example re-scaling the data according to the estimated position for values according to the changed feedback position (e.g., where the feedback position measurement indicates the inspection robot traveled 25% further than expected by dead reckoning, position information 3604 during the dead reckoning period can be extended by 25%) and/or according to rationalization determinations or externally available data (e.g., where over 60 seconds the inspection robot traverses 16% less distance than expected, but sensor readings or other information indicate the inspection robot may have been stuck for 10 seconds, then the position information 3604 may be corrected to represent the 10-seconds of non-motion rather than a full re-scale of the position informed inspection data 3616). In certain embodiments, dead reckoning operations may be corrected based on feedback measurements as available, and/or in response to the feedback measurement indicating that the dead reckoning position information exceeds a threshold error value (e.g., 1%, 0.1%, 0.01%, etc.).
It can be seen that the operations of apparatus 3600 provide for position-based inspection information. Certain systems, apparatuses, and procedures throughout the present disclosure utilize and/or can benefit from position informed inspection data 3616, and all such embodiments are contemplated herein. Without limitation to any other disclosures herein, certain aspects of the present disclosure include: providing a visualization of inspection data 3612 in position information 3604 space and/or in plant position value 3614 space; utilizing the position informed inspection data 3616 in planning for a future inspection on the same or a similar plant, industrial system, and/or inspection surface (e.g., configuring sled number and spacing, inspection robot speed, inspection robot downforce for sleds and/or sensors, sensor calibrations, planning for traversal and/or avoidance of obstacles, etc.); providing a format for storing a virtual mark (e.g., replacing a paint or other mark with a virtual mark as a parameter in the inspection data 3612 correlated to a position); determining a change in a plant condition in response to the position informed inspection data 3616 (e.g., providing an indication that expected position information 3604 did not occur in accordance with the plant position definition 3606—for example indicating a failure, degradation, or unexpected object in a portion of the inspected plant that is not readily visible); and/or providing a health indicator of the inspection surface (e.g., depicting regions that are nominal, passed, need repair, will need repair, and/or have failed). In certain embodiments, it can be seen that constructing the position informed inspection data 3616 using position information 3604 only, including dead reckoning based position information 3604, nevertheless yields many of the benefits of providing the position informed inspection data 3616. In certain further embodiments, the position informed inspection data 3616 is additionally or alternatively constructed utilizing the plant position definition 3606, and/or the plant position values 3614.
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In certain embodiments, the controller 802 includes a thickness processing circuit 3906 that determines a primary mode value 3908 in response to the raw acoustic data 3904. The primary mode value 3908, in certain embodiments, includes a determination based upon a first return and a second return of the raw acoustic data 3904, where a time difference between the first return and the second return indicates a thickness of the inspection surface material (e.g., a pipe). The foregoing operations of the thickness processing circuit 3906 are well known in the art, and are standard operations for ultra-sonic thickness testing. However, the environment for the inspection robot is not typical, and certain further improvements to operations are described herein. An inspection robot, in certain embodiments, performs a multiplicity of ultra-sonic thickness determinations, often with simultaneous (or nearly) operations from multiple sensors. Additionally, in certain embodiments, it is desirable that the inspection robot operate: autonomously without the benefit of an experienced operator; without high-end processing in real-time to provide substantial displays to a user to determine whether parameters are not being determined properly; and/or with limited communication resources utilized for post-processing that is fast enough that off nominal operation can be adjusted after significant post-processing.
In certain embodiments, the thickness processing circuit 3906 determines a primary mode score value 3910. In certain embodiments, the thickness processing circuit 3906 determines the primary mode score value 3910 in response to a time of arrival for the primary (e.g., inspection surface face) return from the raw acoustic data 3904. Because the delay time for the sensor is a known and controlled value (e.g., reference
In certain embodiments, the thickness processing circuit 3906 additionally or alternatively considers the timing of arrival for a secondary return, peak arrival time, and/or peak width of the secondary return (e.g., from the back wall) in determining the primary mode score value 3910. For example, if the secondary return indicates a wall thickness that is far outside of an expected thickness value, either greater or lower, the primary mode score value 3910 may be reduced. In certain embodiments, if the secondary return has a peak characteristic that is distinct from the expected characteristic (e.g., too narrow, not sharp, etc.) then the primary mode score value 3910 may be reduced. Additionally or alternatively, feedback data regarding the sensor may be utilized to adjust the primary mode score value 3910—for example if the sensor is out of alignment with the inspection surface, the sensor (or sled) has lifted off of the inspection surface, a sled position for a sled having an acoustic sensor, and/or if a couplant anomaly is indicated (e.g., couplant flow is lost, a bubble is detected, etc.) then the primary mode score value 3910 may be reduced.
In certain embodiments, for example when the primary mode score value 3910 indicates that the primary mode value 3908 is to be trusted, the controller 802 includes a sensor reporting circuit 3914 that provides the ultra-sonic thickness value 3912 in response to the primary mode value 3908. In certain embodiments, if the primary mode score value 3910 is sufficiently high, the thickness processing circuit 3906 omits operations to determine a secondary mode value 3916. In certain embodiments, the thickness processing circuit 3906 performs operations to determine the secondary mode value 3916 in response to the primary mode score value 3910 is at an intermediate value, and/or if feedback data regarding the sensor indicates off-nominal operation, even when the primary mode score value 3910 is sufficiently high (e.g., to allow for improved post-processing of the inspection data). In certain embodiments, the thickness processing circuit 3906 determines the secondary mode value 3916 at all times, for example to allow for improved post-processing of the inspection data. In certain embodiments, the sensor reporting circuit 3914 provides processed values for the primary mode value 3908 and/or the secondary mode value 3916, and/or the primary mode scoring value 3910 and/or a secondary mode score value 3918, either as the inspection data and/or as stored data to enable post-processing and/or future calibration improvements. In certain embodiments, the sensor reporting circuit 3914 provides the raw acoustic data 3904, either as the inspection data and/or as stored data to enable post-processing and/or future calibration improvements.
The example thickness processing circuit 3906 further determines, in certain embodiments, a secondary mode value 3916. An example secondary mode value 3916 includes values determined from a number of reflected peaks—for example determining which of a number of reflected peaks are primary returns (e.g., from a face of the inspection surface) and which of a number of reflected peaks are secondary returns (e.g., from a back wall of the inspection surface). In certain embodiments, a Fast-Fourier Transform (FFT), wavelet analysis, or other frequency analysis technique is utilized by the thickness processing circuit 3906 to determine the energy and character of the number of reflected peaks. In certain embodiments, the thickness processing circuit 3906 determines a secondary mode score value 3918—for example from the character and consistency of the peaks, and determines an ultra-sonic thickness value 3912 from the peak-to-peak distance of the number of reflected peaks. The operations of the example apparatus 3900, which in certain embodiments favor utilization of the primary mode value 3908, provide for rapid and high confidence determinations of the ultra-sonic thickness value 3912 in an environment where a multiplicity of sensors are providing raw acoustic data 3904, computing resources are limited, and a large number of sensor readings are to be performed without supervision of an experienced operator.
In certain embodiments, any one or more of the ultra-sonic thickness value 3912, the primary mode value 3908, the secondary mode value 3916, the primary mode score value 3910, and/or the secondary mode score value 3918 are provided or stored as position informed inspection data 3616. The correlation of the values 3912, 3908, 3916, 3910, and/or 3918 with position data as position informed inspection data 3616 provides for rapid visualizations of the characteristics of the inspection surface, and provides for rapid convergence of calibration values for inspection operations on the inspection surface and similar surfaces. In certain embodiments, the raw acoustic data 3904 is provided or stored as position informed inspection data 3616.
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As with all schematic flow diagrams and operational descriptions throughout the present disclosure, operations of procedure 4000 may be combined or divided, in whole or part, and/or certain operations may be omitted or added. Without limiting the present description, it is noted that operation 4022 to determine the secondary mode score value and operation 4024 to determine whether the secondary mode score value exceeds a utilization threshold may operate together such that operation 4018 to determine the secondary mode score is omitted. For example, where the secondary mode score value indicates that the secondary mode value is not sufficiently reliable to use as the ultra-sonic thickness value, in certain embodiments, processing to determine the secondary mode value are omitted. In certain embodiments, one or more of operations 4014 and/or 4008 to compare the primary mode score value to certain thresholds may additionally or alternatively include comparison of the primary mode score value to the secondary mode score value, and/or utilization of the secondary mode value instead of the primary mode value where the secondary mode score value is higher, or sufficiently higher, than the primary mode score value. In certain embodiments, both the primary mode value and the secondary mode value are determined and stored or communicated, for example to enhance future calibrations and/or processing operations, and/or to enable post-processing operations. In certain embodiments, one or more operations of procedure 4200 are performed by a controller 802.
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An example apparatus 4300 includes an EM data circuit 4302 structured to interpret EM induction data 4304 provided by a magnetic induction sensor. The EM induction data 4304 provides an indication of the thickness of material, including coatings, debris, non-ferrous metal spray material (e.g., repair material), and/or damage, between the sensor and a substrate ferrous material, such as a pipe, tube, wall, tank wall, or other material provided as a substrate for an inspection surface. The foregoing operations of the EM data circuit 4302 and magnetic induction sensor are well known in the art, and are standard operations for determining automotive paint thickness or other applications. However, the environment for the inspection robot is not typical, and certain further improvements to operations are described herein.
In certain embodiments, an inspection robot includes sled configurations, including any configurations described throughout the present disclosure, to ensure expected contact, including proximity and/or orientation, between the inspection surface and the magnetic induction sensor. Accordingly, a magnetic induction sensor included on a sled 1 of the inspection robot in accordance with the present disclosure provides a reliable reading of distance to the substrate ferrous material. In certain embodiments, the apparatus 4300 includes a substrate distance circuit 4306 that determines a substrate distance value 4308 between the magnetic induction sensor and a ferrous substrate of the inspection surface. Additionally or alternatively, the substrate distance value 4308 may be a coating thickness, a delay line correction factor (e.g., utilized by a thickness processing circuit 3906), a total debris-coating distance, or other value determined in response to the substrate distance value 4308.
In certain embodiments, the controller 802 further includes an EM diagnostic circuit 4310 that supports one or more diagnostics in response to the substrate distance value 4308. An example diagnostic includes a diagnostic value 4312 (e.g., a rationality diagnostic value, or another value used for a diagnostic check), wherein the EM diagnostic circuit 4310 provides information utilized by the thickness processing circuit 3906, for example to a thickness processing circuit 3906. For example, the layer of coating, debris, or other material between the substrate of the inspection surface and an ultra-sonic sensor can affect the peak arrival times. In a further example, the layer of coating, debris, or other material between the substrate of the inspection surface and an ultra-sonic sensor can act to increase the effective delay line between the transducer of the ultra-sonic sensor and the inspection surface. In certain embodiments, the thickness processing circuit 3906 utilizes the rationality diagnostic value 4312 to adjust expected arrival times for the primary return and/or secondary return values, and/or to adjust a primary mode scoring value and/or a secondary mode score value.
In certain embodiments, the EM diagnostic circuit 4310 operates to determine a sensor position value 4314. In certain embodiments, the sensor position value 4314 provides a determination of the sensor distance to the substrate. In certain embodiments, the sensor position value 4314 provides a rationality check whether the sensor is positioned in proximity to the inspection surface. For example, an excursion of the EM induction data 4304 and/or substrate distance value 4308 may be understood to be a loss of contact of the sensor with the inspection surface, and/or may form a part of a determination, combined with other information such as an arm 20, sled 1, or payload 2 position value, a value of any of the pivots 16, 17, 18, and/or information from a camera or other visual indicator, to determine that a sled 1 including the magnetic induction sensor, and/or the magnetic induction sensor, is not properly positioned with regard to the inspection surface. Additionally or alternatively, a thickness processing circuit 3906 may utilize the sensor position value 4314 to adjust the primary mode scoring value and/or the secondary mode score value—for example to exclude or label data that is potentially invalid. In certain embodiments, the sensor position value 4314 is utilized on a payload 2 having both an ultra-sonic sensor and a magnetic induction sensor, and/or on a sled 1 having both an ultra-sonic sensor and a magnetic induction sensor (e.g., where the sensor position value 4314 is likely to provide direct information about the ultra-sonic sensor value). In certain embodiments, the sensor position value 4314 is utilized when the magnetic induction sensor is not on a same payload 2 or sled 1 with an ultra-sonic sensor—for example by correlating with position data to identify a potential obstacle or other feature on the inspection surface that may move the sled 1 out of a desired alignment with the inspection surface. In certain embodiments, the sensor position value 4314 is utilized when the magnetic induction sensor is not on a same payload 2 or sled 1 with an ultra-sonic sensor, and is combined with other data in a heuristic check to determine if the ultra-sonic sensor (and/or related sled or payload) experiences the same disturbance at the same location that the magnetic induction sensor (and/or related sled or payload) experienced.
In certain embodiments, the substrate distance value 4308 is provided to a thickness processing circuit 3906, which utilizes the substrate distance value 4308 to differentiate between a utilization of the primary mode value 3908 and/or the secondary mode value 3916. For example, the thickness of a coating on the inspection surface can affect return times and expected peak times. Additionally or alternatively, where the speed of sound through the coating is known or estimated, the peak analysis of the primary mode value 3908 and/or the secondary mode value 3916 can be adjusted accordingly. For example, the secondary mode value 3916 will demonstrate additional peaks, which can be resolved with a knowledge of the coating thickness and material, and/or the speed of sound of the coating material can be resolved through deconvolution and frequency analysis of the returning peaks if the thickness of the coating is known. In another example, the primary mode value 3908 can be adjusted to determine a true substrate first peak response (which will, in certain embodiments, occur after a return from the coating surface), which can be resolved with a knowledge of the coating thickness and/or the speed of sound of the coating material. In certain embodiments, a likely composition of the coating material is known—for example based upon prior repair operations performed on the inspection surface. In certain embodiments, as described, sound characteristics of the coating material, and/or effective sound characteristics of a pseudo-material (e.g., a mix of more than one material modeled as an aggregated pseudo-material) acting as the aggregate of the coating, debris, or other matter on the substrate of the inspection surface, can be determined through an analysis of the ultra-sonic data and/or coupled with knowledge of the thickness of the matter on the substrate of the inspection surface.
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In certain embodiments, the example procedure 4600 includes an operation 4606 to perform an additional inspection operation in response to the induction processing parameter. For example, operation 4606 may include operations such as: inspecting additional portions of the inspection surface and/or increasing the size of the inspection surface (e.g., to inspect other portions of an industrial system, facility, and/or inspection area encompassing the inspection surface); to activate trailing payloads and/or a rear payload to perform the additional inspection operation; re-running an inspection operation over an inspection area that at least partially overlaps a previously inspected area; and/or performing a virtual additional inspection operation—for example re-processing one or more aspects of inspection data in view of the induction processing parameter.
In certain embodiments, the example procedure 4600 includes an operation 4608 to follow a detected feature, for example activating a sensor configured to detect the feature as the inspection robot traverses the inspection surface, and/or configuring the inspection robot to adjust a trajectory to follow the feature (e.g., by changing the robot trajectory in real-time, and/or performing additional inspection operations to cover the area of the feature). Example and non-limiting features include welds, grooves, cracks, coating difference areas (e.g., thicker coating, thinner coating, and/or a presence or lack of a coating). In certain embodiments, the example procedure 4600 includes an operation 4610 to perform at least one of a marking, repair, and/or treatment operation, for example marking features (e.g., welds, grooves, cracks, and/or coating difference areas), and/or performing a repair and/or treatment operation (e.g., welding, applying an epoxy, applying a cleaning operation, and/or applying a coating) appropriate for a feature. In certain embodiments, operation 4610 to perform a marking operation includes marking the inspection surface in virtual space—for example as a parameter visible on an inspection map but not physically applied to the inspection surface.
In certain embodiments, the example procedure 4600 includes an operation 4612 to perform a re-processing operation in response to the induction processing parameter. For example, and without limitation, acoustic raw data, primary mode values and/or primary mode score values, and/or secondary mode values and/or secondary mode score values may be recalculated over at least a portion of an inspection area in response to the induction processing parameter. In certain embodiments, ultra-sonic sensor calibrations may be adjusted in a post-processing operation to evaluate, for example, wall thickness and/or imperfections (e.g., cracks, deformations, grooves, etc.) utilizing the induction processing parameter(s).
Operations for procedure 4600 are described in view of an induction processing parameter for clarity of description. It is understood that a plurality of induction processing parameters, including multiple parameter types (e.g., coating presence and/or coating thickness) as well as a multiplicity of parameter determinations (e.g., position based induction processed values across at least a portion of the inspection surface) are likewise contemplated herein. In certain embodiments, one or more operations of procedure 4600 are performed by a controller 802.
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An example system includes: an inspection robot including a plurality of payloads; a plurality of arms, wherein each of the plurality of arms is pivotally mounted to one of the plurality of payloads; a plurality of sleds, wherein each sled is pivotally mounted to one of the plurality of arms; and a plurality of sensors, wherein each sensor is mounted to a corresponding one of the sleds such that the sensor is operationally couplable to an inspection surface in contact with a bottom surface of the corresponding one of the sleds.
Certain further aspects of an example system are described following, any one or more of which may be included in certain embodiments of the example system.
An example system may further include wherein the bottom surface of the corresponding one of the sleds is contoured in response to a shape of the inspection surface.
An example system may further include wherein the inspection surface includes a pipe outer wall, and wherein the bottom surface of the corresponding one of the sleds includes a concave shape.
An example system may further include wherein the bottom surface of the corresponding one of the sleds includes at least one shape selected from the shapes consisting of: a concave shape, a convex shape, and a curved shape.
An example system may further include wherein each of the plurality of arms is further pivotally mounted to the one of the plurality of payloads with two degrees of rotational freedom.
An example system may further include wherein the sleds as mounted on the arms include three degrees of rotational freedom.
An example system may further include a biasing member coupled to each one of the plurality of arms, and wherein the biasing member provides a biasing force to corresponding one of the plurality of sleds, wherein the biasing force is directed toward the inspection surface.
An example system may further include wherein each of the plurality of payloads has a plurality of the plurality of arms mounted thereon.
An example system includes an inspection robot, and a plurality of sleds mounted to the inspection robot; a plurality of sensors, wherein each sensor is mounted to a corresponding one of the sleds such that the sensor is operationally couplable to an inspection surface in contact with a bottom surface of the corresponding one of the sleds; and a couplant chamber disposed within each of the plurality of sleds, each couplant chamber interposed between a transducer of the sensor mounted to the sled and the inspection surface.
Certain further aspects of an example system are described following, any one or more of which may be included in certain embodiments of the example system.
An example system may further include wherein each couplant chamber includes a cone, the cone including a cone tip portion at an inspection surface end of the cone, and a sensor mounting end opposite the cone tip portion, and wherein the cone tip portion defines a couplant exit opening.
An example system may further include a couplant entry for the couplant chamber, wherein the couplant entry is positioned between the cone tip portion and the sensor mounting end.
An example system may further include wherein the couplant entry is positioned at a vertically upper side of the cone when the inspection robot is positioned on the inspection surface.
An example system may further include wherein the couplant exit opening includes one of flush with the bottom surface and extending through the bottom surface.
An example system includes an inspection robot including a plurality of payloads; a plurality of arms, wherein each of the plurality of arms is pivotally mounted to one of the plurality of payloads; a plurality of sleds, wherein each sled is mounted to one of the plurality of arms; a plurality of sensors, wherein each sensor is mounted to a corresponding one of the sleds such that the sensor is operationally couplable to an inspection surface in contact with a bottom surface of the corresponding one of the sleds; a couplant chamber disposed within each of the plurality of sleds, each couplant chamber interposed between a transducer of the sensor mounted to the sled and the inspection surface; and a biasing member coupled to each one of the plurality of arms, and wherein the biasing member provides a biasing force to corresponding one of the plurality of sleds, wherein the biasing force is directed toward the inspection surface.
Certain further aspects of an example system are described following, any one or more of which may be included in certain embodiments of the example system.
An example system may further include wherein each couplant chamber includes a cone, the cone including a cone tip portion at an inspection surface end of the cone, and a sensor mounting end opposite the cone tip portion, and wherein the cone tip portion defines a couplant exit opening.
An example system may further include a couplant entry for the couplant chamber, wherein the couplant entry is positioned between the cone tip portion and the sensor mounting end.
An example system may further include wherein the couplant entry is positioned at a vertically upper side of the cone when the inspection robot is positioned on the inspection surface.
An example system may further include wherein the couplant exit opening includes one of flush with the bottom surface and extending through the bottom surface.
An example system may further include wherein each payload includes a single couplant connection to the inspection robot.
An example method includes providing an inspection robot having a plurality of payloads and a corresponding plurality of sleds for each of the payloads; mounting a sensor on each of the sleds, each sensor mounted to a couplant chamber interposed between the sensor and an inspection surface, and each couplant chamber including a couplant entry for the couplant chamber; changing one of the plurality of payloads to a distinct payload; and wherein the changing of the plurality of payloads does not include disconnecting a couplant line connection at the couplant chamber.
An example method includes providing an inspection robot having a plurality of payloads and a corresponding plurality of sleds for each of the payloads; mounting a sensor on each of the sleds, each sensor mounted to a couplant chamber interposed between the sensor and an inspection surface, and each couplant chamber including a couplant entry for the couplant chamber; changing one of the plurality of payloads to a distinct payload; and wherein the changing of the plurality of payloads does not include dismounting any of the sensors from corresponding couplant chambers.
An example system includes: an inspection robot including a plurality of payloads; a plurality of arms, wherein each of the plurality of arms is pivotally mounted to one of the plurality of payloads; and a plurality of sleds, wherein each sled is pivotally mounted to one of the plurality of arms, and wherein each sled defines a chamber sized to accommodate a sensor.
Certain further aspects of an example system are described following, any one or more of which may be included in certain embodiments of the example system.
An example system may further include a plurality of sensors, wherein each sensor is positioned in one of the chambers of a corresponding one of the plurality of sleds.
An example system may further include wherein each chamber further includes a stop, and wherein each of the plurality of sensors is positioned against the stop.
An example system may further include wherein each sensor positioned against the stop has a predetermined positional relationship with a bottom surface of the corresponding one of the plurality of sleds.
An example system may further include wherein each chamber further includes a chamfer on at least one side of the chamber.
An example system may further include wherein each sensor extends through a corresponding holding clamp, and wherein each holding clamp is mounted to the corresponding one of the plurality of sleds.
An example system may further include wherein each of the plurality of sleds includes an installation sleeve positioned at least partially within the chamber.
An example system may further include wherein each of the plurality of sleds includes an installation sleeve positioned at least partially within in the chamber, and wherein each sensor positioned in one of the chambers engages the installation sleeve positioned in the chamber.
An example system may further include wherein each of the plurality of sensors is positioned at least partially within an installation sleeve, and wherein each installation sleeve is positioned at least partially within the chamber of the corresponding one of the plurality of sleds.
An example system may further include wherein each chamber further includes wherein each of the plurality of sensors includes an installation tab, and wherein each of the plurality of sensors positioned in one of the chambers engages the installation tab.
An example system may further include wherein each installation tab is formed by relief slots.
An example system includes: an inspection robot including a plurality of payloads; a plurality of arms, wherein each of the plurality of arms is pivotally mounted to one of the plurality of payloads; and a plurality of sleds, wherein each sled is pivotally mounted to one of the plurality of arms, and wherein each sled includes a bottom surface; and a removable layer positioned on each of the bottom surfaces.
Certain further aspects of an example system are described following, any one or more of which may be included in certain embodiments of the example system.
An example system may further include wherein the removable layer includes a sacrificial film.
An example system may further include wherein the sacrificial film includes an adhesive backing on a side of the sacrificial film that faces the bottom surface.
An example system may further include wherein the removable layer includes a hole positioned vertically below a chamber of the corresponding one of the plurality of sleds.
An example system may further include wherein the removable layer is positioned at least partially within a recess of the bottom surface.
An example system may further include wherein the removable layer includes a thickness providing a selected spatial orientation between an inspection contact side of the removable layer and the bottom surface.
An example system includes: an inspection robot including a plurality of payloads; a plurality of arms, wherein each of the plurality of arms is pivotally mounted to one of the plurality of payloads; and a plurality of sleds, wherein each sled is pivotally mounted to one of the plurality of arms, and wherein each sled includes an upper portion and a replaceable lower portion having a bottom surface.
Certain further aspects of an example system are described following, any one or more of which may be included in certain embodiments of the example system.
An example system may further include wherein the replaceable lower portion includes a single, 3-D printable material.
An example system may further include wherein the upper portion and the replaceable lower portion are configured to pivotally engage and disengage.
An example system may further include wherein the bottom surface further includes at least one ramp.
An example method includes interrogating an inspection surface with an inspection robot having a plurality of sleds, each sled including an upper portion and a replaceable lower portion having a bottom surface; determining that the replaceable lower portion of one of the sleds is one of damaged or worn; and in response to the determining, disengaging the worn or damaged replaceable portion from the corresponding upper portion, and engaging a new or undamaged replaceable portion to the corresponding upper portion.
An example method may further include wherein the disengaging includes turning the worn or damaged replaceable portion relative to the corresponding upper portion.
An example method may further include performing a 3-D printing operation to provide the new or undamaged replaceable portion.
An example method includes determining a surface characteristic for an inspection surface; providing a replaceable lower portion having a bottom surface, the replaceable lower portion including a lower portion of a sled having an upper portion, wherein the sled includes one of a plurality of sleds for an inspection robot; and wherein the providing includes one of performing a 3-D printing operation or selecting one from a multiplicity of pre-configured replaceable lower portions.
Certain further aspects of an example system are described following, any one or more of which may be included in certain embodiments of the example system.
An example method may further include determining the surface characteristic includes determining a surface curvature of the inspection surface.
An example method may further include providing includes providing the replaceable lower portion having at least one of a selected bottom surface shape or at least one ramp.
An example method may further include wherein the at least one ramp includes at least one of a ramp angle and a ramp total height value.
An example system includes an inspection robot including a plurality of payloads; a plurality of arms, wherein each of the plurality of arms is pivotally mounted to one of the plurality of payloads; and a plurality of sleds, wherein each sled is pivotally mounted to one of the plurality of arms, and wherein each sled includes a bottom surface defining a ramp.
Certain further aspects of an example system are described following, any one or more of which may be included in certain embodiments of the example system.
An example system may further include wherein each sled further includes the bottom surface defining two ramps, wherein the two ramps include a forward ramp and a rearward ramp.
An example system may further include wherein the ramp include at least one of a ramp angle and a ramp total height value.
An example system may further include wherein the at least one of the ramp angle and the ramp total height value are configured to traverse an obstacle on an inspection surface to be traversed by the inspection robot.
An example system may further include wherein the ramp includes a curved shape.
An example system includes an inspection robot including a plurality of payloads; a plurality of arms, wherein each of the plurality of arms is mounted to one of the plurality of payloads; a plurality of sleds, wherein each sled is pivotally mounted to one of the plurality of arms; and a plurality of sensors, wherein each sensor is mounted to a corresponding one of the sleds such that the sensor is operationally couplable to an inspection surface in contact with a bottom surface of the corresponding one of the sleds.
Certain further aspects of an example system are described following, any one or more of which may be included in certain embodiments of the example system.
An example system may further include wherein each sled is pivotally mounted to one of the plurality of arms at a selected one of a plurality of pivot point positions.
An example system may further include a controller configured to select the one of the plurality of pivot point positions during an inspection run of the inspection robot.
An example system may further include wherein the controller is further configured to select the one of the plurality of pivot point positions in response to a travel direction of the inspection robot.
An example system may further include wherein each sled is pivotally mounted to one of the plurality of arms at a plurality of pivot point positions.
An example method includes providing a plurality of sleds for an inspection robot, each of the sleds mountable to a corresponding arm of the inspection robot at a plurality of pivot point positions; determining which of the plurality of pivot point positions is to be utilized for an inspection operation; and pivotally mounting each of the sleds to the corresponding arm at a selected one of the plurality of pivot point positions in response to the determining.
Certain further aspects of an example method are described following, any one or more of which may be included in certain embodiments of the example method.
An example method may further include wherein the pivotally mounting is performed before an inspection run by the inspection robot.
An example method may further include wherein the pivotally mounting is performed during an inspection run by the inspection robot.
An example method may further include wherein the pivotally mounting is performed in response to a travel direction of the inspection robot.
An example method may further include pivotally mounting each of the sleds at a selected plurality of the plurality of pivot point positions in response to the determining.
An example method includes determining an inspection resolution for an inspection surface; configuring an inspection robot by providing a plurality of horizontally distributed sensors operationally coupled to the inspection robot in response to the inspection resolution; and performing an inspection operation on the inspection surface at a resolution at least equal to the inspection resolution.
One or more certain further aspects of the example method may be incorporated in certain embodiments. Performing the inspection operation may include interrogating the inspection surface acoustically utilizing the plurality of horizontally distributed sensors. The plurality of horizontally distributed sensors may be provided on a first payload of the inspection robot, and wherein the configuring the inspection robot further enhances at least one of a horizontal sensing resolution or a vertical sensing resolution of the inspection robot by providing a second plurality of horizontally distributed sensors on a second payload of the inspection robot. The inspection robot may include providing the first payload defining a first horizontal inspection lane and the second payload defining a second horizontal inspection lane. The inspection robot may include providing the first payload and the second payload such that the first horizontal inspection lane is distinct from the second horizontal inspection lane. The inspection robot may include providing the first payload and the second payload such that the first horizontal inspection lane at least partially overlaps the second horizontal inspection lane. The inspection robot may include determining an inspection trajectory of the inspection robot over the inspection surface, such as the inspection trajectory determining a first inspection run and a second inspection run, wherein a first area of the inspection surface traversed by the first inspection run at least partially overlaps a second area of the inspection surface traversed by the second inspection run.
An example system includes an inspection robot including at least one payload; a plurality of arms, wherein each of the plurality of arms is pivotally mounted to the at least one payload; and a plurality of sleds, wherein each sled is pivotally mounted to one of the plurality of arms, and wherein the plurality of sleds are distributed horizontally across the payload.
One or more certain further aspects of the example system may be incorporated in certain embodiments. The plurality of sleds may be distributed across the payload with a spacing defining a selected horizontal sensing resolution of the inspection robot. The sleds may be distributed across the payload, wherein a plurality of sleds are provided within a horizontal distance that is less than a horizontal width of a pipe to be inspected. There may be a plurality of sensors, wherein each sensor is mounted to a corresponding one of the sleds such that the sensor is operationally couplable to an inspection surface in contact with a bottom surface of the corresponding one of the sleds. At least one payload may include a first payload and a second payload, and wherein the first payload and the second payload define distinct horizontal inspection lanes for the inspection surface. There may be a plurality of sensors including ultra-sonic sensors, and wherein each of the plurality of payloads comprises a single couplant connection to the inspection robot.
An example system includes an inspection robot having a number of sensors operationally coupled thereto; and a means for horizontally distributing the number of sensors across a selected horizontal inspection lane of an inspection surface. In a further aspect, a plurality of the number of sensors may be provided to inspect a single pipe of the inspection surface at a plurality of distinct horizontal positions of the pipe.
An example system includes an inspection robot comprising a first payload and a second payload; a first plurality of arms pivotally mounted to the first payload, and a second plurality of arms pivotally mounted to the second payload; a first plurality of sleds mounted to corresponding ones of the first plurality of arms, and a second plurality of sleds mounted to corresponding ones of the second plurality of arms; wherein the first payload defines a first horizontal inspection lane for an inspection surface, and wherein the second payload defines a second horizontal inspection lane for the inspection surface; and wherein the first horizontal inspection lane at least partially overlaps the second horizontal inspection lane.
One or more certain further aspects of the example system may be incorporated in certain embodiments. At least one of the second plurality of sleds may be horizontally aligned with at least one of the first plurality of sleds. There may be a plurality of sensors, wherein each sensor is mounted to a corresponding one of the first plurality of sleds and the second plurality of sleds, such that the sensor is operationally couplable to an inspection surface in contact with a bottom surface of the corresponding one of the first plurality of sleds and the second plurality of sleds. Sensors may be mounted on the horizontally aligned sleds for interrogating vertically distinct portions of the inspection surface. At least one of the second plurality of sleds and at least one of the first plurality of sleds may be horizontally offset. The first payload may include a forward payload and wherein the second payload comprises a rear payload. The first payload may include a forward payload and wherein the second payload comprises a trailing payload.
An example apparatus includes an inspection data circuit structured to interpret lead inspection data from a lead sensor; a sensor configuration circuit structured to determine a configuration adjustment for a trailing sensor in response to the lead inspection data; and a sensor operation circuit structured to adjust at least one parameter of the trailing sensor in response to the configuration adjustment.
One or more certain further aspects of the example apparatus may be incorporated in certain embodiments. The inspection data circuit may be further structured to interpret trailing sensor data from a trailing sensor, wherein the trailing sensor is responsive to the configuration adjustment. The configuration adjustment may include at least one adjustment selected from the adjustments consisting of: changing of sensing parameters of the trailing sensor; changing a cut-off time to observe a peak value for an ultra-sonic trailing sensor; enabling operation of a trailing sensor; adjusting a sensor sampling rate of a trailing sensor; adjusting a fault cut-off values for a trailing sensor; adjusting a sensor range of a trailing sensor; adjusting a resolution value of a trailing sensor; changing a movement speed of an inspection robot, wherein the trailing sensors are operationally coupled to the inspection robot. The lead sensor and the trailing sensor may be operationally coupled to an inspection robot. The lead sensor may include a first sensor during a first inspection run, and wherein the trailing sensor comprises the first sensor during a second inspection run. The inspection data circuit may be further structured to interpret the lead inspection data and interpret the trailing sensor data in a single inspection run.
An example system may include an inspection robot; a lead sensor operationally coupled to the inspection robot and structured to provide lead inspection data; a controller, the controller including: an inspection data circuit structured to interpret the lead inspection data; a sensor configuration circuit structured to determine a configuration adjustment for a trailing sensor in response to the lead inspection data; and a sensor operation circuit structured to adjust at least one parameter of the trailing sensor in response to the configuration adjustment; and a trailing sensor responsive to the configuration adjustment.
One or more certain further aspects of the example system may be incorporated in certain embodiments. The controller may be at least partially positioned on the inspection robot. The inspection data circuit may be further structured to interpret trailing inspection data from the trailing sensor. The configuration adjustment may include at least one adjustment selected from the adjustments consisting of: changing of sensing parameters of the trailing sensor; wherein the trailing sensor comprises an ultra-sonic sensor, and changing a cut-off time to observe a peak value for the trailing sensor; enabling operation of the trailing sensor; adjusting a sensor sampling rate of the trailing sensor; adjusting a fault cut-off values for the trailing sensor; adjusting a sensor range of the trailing sensor; adjusting a resolution value of the trailing sensor; changing a movement speed of the inspection robot, wherein the trailing sensor is operationally coupled to the inspection robot. The trailing sensor may be operationally coupled to an inspection robot. The lead sensor may include a first sensor during a first inspection run, and wherein the trailing sensor comprises the first sensor during a second inspection run. The inspection data circuit may be further structured to interpret the lead inspection data and interpret the trailing inspection data in a single inspection run.
An example method may include interpreting a lead inspection data from a lead sensor; determining a configuration adjustment for a trailing sensor in response to the lead inspection data; and adjusting at least one parameter of a trailing sensor in response to the configuration adjustment.
One or more certain further aspects of the example method may be incorporated in certain embodiments. A trailing inspection data may be interpreted from the trailing sensor. The adjusting the at least one parameter of the trailing sensor may include at least one adjustment selected from the adjustments consisting of: changing of sensing parameters of the trailing sensor; changing a cut-off time to observe a peak value for an ultra-sonic trailing sensor; enabling operation of a trailing sensor; adjusting a sensor sampling rate of a trailing sensor; adjusting a fault cut-off values for a trailing sensor; adjusting a sensor range of a trailing sensor; adjusting a resolution value of a trailing sensor; changing a movement speed of an inspection robot, wherein the trailing sensors are operationally coupled to the inspection robot. Interpreting the lead sensor data may be provided during a first inspection run, and interpreting the trailing inspection data during a second inspection run. Interpreting the lead inspection data and interpreting the trailing inspection data may be performed in a single inspection run.
An example method includes accessing an industrial system comprising an inspection surface, wherein the inspection surface comprises a personnel risk feature; operating an inspection robot to inspect at least a portion of the inspection surface; and wherein the operating the inspection is performed with at least a portion of the industrial system providing the personnel risk feature still operating.
One or more certain further aspects of the example method may be incorporated in certain embodiments. The personnel risk feature may include a portion of the inspection surface having an elevated height. The elevated height may include at least one height value consisting of the height values selected from: at least 10 feet, at least 20 feet, at least 30 feet, greater than 50 feet, greater than 100 feet, and up to 150 feet. The personnel risk feature may include an elevated temperature of at least a portion of the inspection surface. The personnel risk feature may include an enclosed space, and wherein at least a portion of the inspection surface is positioned within the enclosed space. The personnel risk feature may include an electrical power connection. Determining a position of the inspection robot within the industrial system during the operating the inspection robot, and shutting down only a portion of the industrial system during the inspection operation in response to the position of the inspection robot.
An example system includes an inspection robot comprising a payload; a plurality of arms, wherein each of the plurality of arms is pivotally mounted to the payload; and a plurality of sleds, wherein each sled is pivotally mounted to one of the plurality of arms, thereby configuring a horizontal distribution of the plurality of sleds.
One or more certain further aspects of the example system may be incorporated in certain embodiments. There may be a plurality of sensors, wherein each sensor is mounted to a corresponding one of the sleds such that the sensor is operationally couplable to an inspection surface in contact with a bottom surface of the corresponding one of the sleds. The horizontal distribution of the plurality of sleds may provide for a selected horizontal resolution of the plurality of sensors. A controller may be configured to determine the selected horizontal resolution and to configure a position of the plurality of arms on the payload in response to the selected horizontal resolution. The horizontal distribution of the plurality of sleds may provide for avoidance of an obstacle on an inspection surface to be traversed by the inspection robot. A controller may be configured to configure a position of the plurality of arms on the payload in response to the obstacle on the inspection surface, and to further configure the position of the plurality of arms on the payload in response to a selected horizontal resolution after the inspection robot clears the obstacle.
An example method includes determining at least one of an obstacle position on an inspection surface and a selected horizontal resolution for sensors to be utilized for operating an inspection robot on an inspection surface; and configuring a horizontal distribution of a plurality of sleds on a payload of the inspection robot in response to the at least one of the obstacle position and the selected horizontal resolution.
One or more certain further aspects of the example method may be incorporated in certain embodiments. The configuring of the horizontal distribution may be performed before an inspection run of the inspection robot on the inspection surface. The configuring of the horizontal distribution may be performed during inspection operations of the inspection robot on the inspection surface.
An example system includes an inspection robot including at least one payload; a plurality of arms, wherein each of the plurality of arms is pivotally mounted to the at least one payload; a plurality of sleds, wherein each sled is pivotally mounted to one of the plurality of arms, and wherein the plurality of sleds are distributed horizontally across the payload; and wherein a plurality of the sleds are provided within a horizontal distance that is less than a horizontal width of a pipe to be inspected.
One or more certain further aspects of the example system may be incorporated in certain embodiments. An acoustic sensor may be mounted to each of the plurality of sleds provided within the horizontal distance less than a horizontal width of the pipe to be inspected. The plurality of sleds may be provided within the horizontal distance less than a horizontal width of the pipe to be inspected oriented such that each of the acoustic sensors is perpendicularly oriented toward the pipe to be inspected. A sensor mounted to each of the plurality of sleds may be provided within the horizontal distance less than a horizontal width of the pipe to be inspected. The plurality of sleds may be provided within the horizontal distance less than a horizontal width of the pipe to be inspected oriented such that each of the sensors is perpendicularly oriented toward the pipe to be inspected.
An example system includes an inspection robot including at least one payload; a plurality of arms, wherein each of the plurality of arms is pivotally mounted to the at least one payload; a plurality of sleds, wherein each sled is pivotally mounted to one of the plurality of arms; and a plurality of sensors mounted on each of the plurality of sleds.
One or more certain further aspects of the example system may be incorporated in certain embodiments. The plurality of sensors on each of the plurality of sleds may be vertically separated. A vertically forward one of the plurality of sensors may be mounted on each of the plurality of sleds comprises a lead sensor, and wherein a vertically rearward one of the plurality of sensors comprises a trailing sensor.
An example system includes a first payload having a first plurality of sensors mounted thereupon, and a second payload having a second plurality of sensors mounted thereupon; an inspection robot; and one of the first payload and the second payload mounted upon the inspection robot, thereby defining a sensor suite for the inspection robot.
One or more certain further aspects of the example system may be incorporated in certain embodiments. A mounted one of the first payload and the second payload may include a single couplant connection to the inspection robot. A mounted one of the first payload and the second payload may include a single electrical connection to the inspection robot.
An example method includes determining a sensor suite for inspection operations of an inspection robot; selecting a payload for the inspection robot from a plurality of available payloads in response to the determined sensor suite; and mounting the selected payload to the inspection robot.
One or more certain further aspects of the example method may be incorporated in certain embodiments. The inspection operations may be performed with the inspection robot after the mounting. The mounting may comprise connecting a single couplant connection between the selected payload and the inspection robot. The mounting may include connecting a single electrical connection between the selected payload and the inspection robot. The mounting may include dis-mounting a previously mounted payload from the inspection robot before the mounting, where the dis-mounting may disconnect a single couplant connection between the previously mounted payload and the inspection robot, disconnect a single electrical connection between the previously mounted payload and the inspection robot, and the like. The mounting may include connecting a single electrical connection between the selected payload and the inspection robot.
An example system includes an inspection robot comprising a plurality of payloads; a plurality of arms, wherein each of the plurality of arms is pivotally mounted to one of the plurality of payloads; a plurality of sleds, wherein each sled is pivotally mounted to one of the plurality of arms; a plurality of sensors, wherein each sensor is mounted to a corresponding one of the sleds such that the sensor is operationally couplable to an inspection surface in contact with a bottom surface of the corresponding one of the sleds; and a biasing member disposed within each of the sleds, wherein the biasing member provides a down force to the corresponding one of the plurality of sensors.
One or more certain further aspects of the example system may be incorporated in certain embodiments. The biasing member may include at least one member selected from the members consisting of a leaf spring, a cylindrical spring, a torsion spring, and an electromagnet. A controller may be configured to adjust a biasing strength of the biasing member. The controller may be further configured to interpret a distance value between the corresponding one of the plurality of sensors and an inspection surface, and to further adjust the biasing strength of the biasing member in response to the distance value.
An example method includes providing a fixed acoustic path between a sensor coupled to an inspection robot and an inspection surface; filling the acoustic path with a couplant; and acoustically interrogating the inspection surface with the sensor.
One or more certain further aspects of the example system may be incorporated in certain embodiments. The filling of the acoustic path with the couplant may include injecting the couplant into the fixed acoustic path from a vertically upper direction. Determining that the sensor should be re-coupled to the inspection surface. Performing a re-coupling operation in response to the determining. Lifting the sensor from the inspection surface, and returning the sensor to the inspection surface. Increasing a flow rate of the filling the acoustic path with the couplant. Performing at least one operation selected from the operations consisting of: determining that a predetermined time has elapsed since a last re-coupling operation; determining that an event has occurred indicating that a re-coupling operation is desired; and determining that the acoustic path has been interrupted.
An example system includes an inspection robot, and a plurality of sleds mounted to the inspection robot; a plurality of sensors, wherein each sensor is mounted to a corresponding one of the sleds such that the sensor is operationally couplable to an inspection surface in contact with a bottom surface of the corresponding one of the sleds; a couplant chamber disposed within each of the plurality of sleds, each couplant chamber interposed between a transducer of the sensor mounted to the sled and the inspection surface; wherein each couplant chamber comprises a cone, the cone comprising a cone tip portion at an inspection surface end of the cone, and a sensor mounting end opposite the cone tip portion, and wherein the cone tip portion defines a couplant exit opening.
One or more certain further aspects of the example system may be incorporated in certain embodiments, such as a plurality of payloads may be mounted to the inspection robot; a plurality of arms, wherein each of the plurality of arms is pivotally mounted to one of the plurality of payloads; wherein the plurality of sleds are each mounted to one of the plurality of arms; and a biasing member coupled to at least one of: one of the payloads or one of the arms; and wherein the biasing member provides a down force on one of the sleds corresponding to the one of the payloads or the one of the arms.
An example system includes an inspection robot, and a plurality of sleds mounted to the inspection robot; a plurality of sensors, wherein each sensor is mounted to a corresponding one of the sleds such that the sensor is operationally couplable to an inspection surface in contact with a bottom surface of the corresponding one of the sleds; a couplant chamber disposed within each of the plurality of sleds, each couplant chamber interposed between a transducer of the sensor mounted to the sled and the inspection surface; and a means for providing a low fluid loss of couplant from each couplant chamber.
An example system includes an inspection robot having a number of sleds mounted to the inspection robot (e.g., mounted on arms coupled to payloads). The example system further includes a number of sensors, where each sensor is mounted on one of the sleds—although in certain embodiments, each sled may have one or more sensors, or no sensors. The example system includes the sensors mounted on the sleds such that the sensor is operationally couplable to the inspection surface when a bottom surface of the corresponding sled is in contact with the inspection surface. For example, the sled may include a hole therethrough, a chamber such that when the sensor is mounted in the chamber, the sensor is in a position to sense parameters about the inspection surface, or any other orientation as described throughout the present disclosure. The example system further includes a couplant chamber disposed within a number of the sleds—for example in two or more of the sleds, in a horizontally distributed arrangement of the sleds, and/or with a couplant chamber disposed in each of the sleds. In certain embodiments, sleds may alternate with sensor arrangements—for example a magnetic induction sensor in a first sled, an acoustic sensor with a couplant chamber in a second sled, another magnetic induction sensor in third sled, an acoustic sensor with a couplant chamber in a fourth sled, and so forth. Any pattern or arrangement of sensors is contemplated herein. In certain embodiments, a magnetic induction sensor is positioned in a forward portion of a sled (e.g., as a lead sensor) and an acoustic sensor is positioned in a middle or rearward portion of the sled (e.g., as a trailing sensor). In certain embodiments, arms for sleds having one type of sensor are longer and/or provide for a more forward position than arms for sleds having a second type of sensor.
The example system further includes each couplant chamber provided as a cone, with the cone having a cone tip portion at an inspection surface end of the cone, and a sensor mounting end opposite the inspection surface end. An example cone tip portion defines a couplant exit opening. An example system further includes a couplant entry for each couplant chamber, which may be positioned between the cone tip portion and the sensor mounting end. In certain embodiments, the couplant entry is positioned at a vertically upper side of the cone in an intended orientation of the inspection robot on the inspection surface. For example, if the inspection robot is intended to be oriented on a flat horizontal inspection surface, the couplant entry may be positioned above the cone or at an upper end of the cone. In another example, if the inspection robot is intended to be oriented on a vertical inspection surface, the couplant entry may be positioned on a side of the cone, such as a forward side (e.g., for an ascending inspection robot) or a rearward side (e.g., for a descending inspection robot). The vertical orientation of the couplant entry, where present, should not be confused with a vertical or horizontal arrangement of the inspection robot (e.g., for sensor distribution orientations). In certain embodiments, a horizontal distribution of sensors is provided as perpendicular, and/or at an oblique angle, to a travel path of the inspection robot, which may be vertical, horizontal, or at any other angle in absolute geometric space.
Certain further aspects of an example system are described following, any one or more of which may be present in certain embodiments. An example system includes a controller 802 configured to fill the couplant chamber with a couplant—for example by providing a couplant command (e.g., flow rate, couplant rate, injection rate, and/or pump speed command) to a couplant pump which may be present on the inspection robot and/or remote from the inspection robot (e.g., providing couplant through a tether). In certain embodiments, the couplant pump is responsive to the couplant command to provide the couplant, to the inspection robot, to a payload, and/or to individual sleds (and thereby to the couplant chamber via the couplant chamber entry). In certain embodiments, the couplant command is a couplant injection command, and the couplant pump is responsive to the injection command to inject the couplant into the couplant chamber. In certain embodiments, the controller is further configured to determine that at least one of the sensors should be re-coupled to the inspection surface. Example and non-limiting operations to determine that at least one of the sensors should be re-coupled to the inspection surface include: determining that a predetermined time has elapsed since a last re-coupling operation; determining that an event has occurred indicating that a re-coupling operation is desired; and/or determining that the acoustic path has been interrupted. In certain embodiments, the controller provides a re-coupling instruction in response to determining that one or more sensors should be re-coupled to the inspection surface. Example and non-limiting re-coupling instructions include a sensor lift command—for example to lift the sensor(s) of a payload and/or arm briefly to clear bubbles from the couplant chamber. In certain embodiments, an actuator such as a motor, pushrod, and/or electromagnet, is present on the inspection robot to lift a payload, an arm, and/or tilt a sled in response to the sensor lift command. In certain embodiments, ramps or other features on a sled are configured such that the sled lifts (or tilts) or otherwise exposes the couplant exit opening—for example in response to a reversal of the direction of motion for the inspection robot. In a further embodiment, the inspection robot is responsive to the sensor lift command to briefly change a direction of motion and thereby perform the re-coupling operation. In certain embodiments, the controller is configured to provide the re-coupling instruction as an increased couplant injection command—for example to raise the couplant flow rate through the couplant chamber and thereby clear bubbles or debris.
An example procedure includes an operation to provide a fixed acoustic path (e.g., a delay line) between a sensor coupled to an inspection robot and an inspection surface. The example procedure includes an operation to fill the acoustic path with couplant, and to acoustically interrogate the inspection surface with the sensor. Certain further aspects of the example procedure are described following, any one or more of which may be present in certain embodiments. An example procedure further includes an operation to fill the acoustic path with the couplant by injecting the couplant into the fixed acoustic path from a vertically upper direction. An example procedure further includes an operation to determine that the sensor should be re-coupled to the surface, and/or to perform a re-coupling operation in response to the determining. In certain further embodiments, example operations to perform a re-coupling operation include at least: lifting the sensor from the inspection surface, and returning the sensor to the inspection surface; and/or increasing a flow rate of the filling of the acoustic path with the couplant. Example operations to determine the sensor should be re-coupled to the surface include at least: determining that a predetermined time has elapsed since a last re-coupling operation; determining that an event has occurred indicating that a re-coupling operation is desired; and determining that the acoustic path has been interrupted.
An example procedure includes performing an operation to determine an inspection resolution for an inspection surface (e.g., by determining a likely resolution that will reveal any features of interest such as damage or corrosion, and/or to meet a policy or regulatory requirement); an operation to configure an inspection robot by providing a number of horizontally distributed acoustic sensors operationally coupled to the inspection robot (e.g., mounted to be moved by the inspection robot, and/or with couplant or other fluid provisions, electrical or other power provisions, and/or with communication provisions); an operation to provide a fixed acoustic path between the acoustic sensors and the inspection surface; an operation to fill the acoustic path with a couplant; and an operation to perform an inspection operation on the inspection surface with the acoustic sensors. It will be understood that additional sensors beyond the acoustic sensors may be operationally coupled to the inspection robot in addition to the acoustic sensors.
Certain further aspects of an example procedure are described following, any one or more of which may be present in certain embodiments. An example procedure includes an operation to perform the inspection operation on the inspection surface at a resolution at least equal to an inspection resolution, and/or where the inspection resolution is smaller (e.g., higher resolution) than a spacing of the horizontally distributed acoustic sensors (e.g., the procedure provides for a greater resolution than that provided by the horizontally spacing of the sensors alone). An example procedure includes the operation to fill the acoustic path with the couplant including injecting the couplant into the fixed acoustic path from a vertically upper direction, and/or an operation to determine that at least one of the acoustic sensors should be re-coupled to the inspection surface.
An example system includes an inspection robot having a plurality of wheels, wherein the plurality of wheels are positioned to engage an inspection surface when the inspection robot is positioned on the inspection surface; wherein each of the plurality of wheels comprises a magnetic hub portion interposed between enclosure portions; wherein the enclosure portions extend past the magnetic hub portion and thereby prevent contact of the magnetic hub portion with the inspection surface.
One or more certain further aspects of the example system may be incorporated in certain embodiments. The enclosure portions may define a channel therebetween. A shape of the channel may be provided in response to a shape of a feature on the inspection surface. The shape of the channel may correspond to a curvature of the feature of the inspection surface. An outer covering for each of the enclosure portions may be provided, such as where the outer covering for each of the enclosure portions define a channel therebetween. The ferrous enclosure portions may include one of an outer chamfer and an outer curvature, and wherein the one of the outer chamfer and the outer curvature correspond to a shape of a feature on the inspection surface. The enclosure portions may include ferrous enclosure portions.
An example system includes an inspection robot having a plurality of wheels, wherein the plurality of wheels are positioned to engage an inspection surface when the inspection robot is positioned on the inspection surface; wherein each of the plurality of wheels comprises a magnetic hub portion interposed between enclosure portions; and wherein the inspection robot further comprises a gear box motively coupled to at least one of the wheels, and wherein the gear box comprises at least one thrust washer axially interposed between two gears of the gear box.
An example system includes an inspection robot having a plurality of wheels, wherein the plurality of wheels are positioned to engage an inspection surface when the inspection robot is positioned on the inspection surface; wherein each of the plurality of wheels comprises a magnetic hub portion interposed between enclosure portions; and wherein the inspection robot further comprises a gear box motively coupled to at least one of the wheels, and wherein the gear box comprises gears that are not a ferromagnetic material.
An example system includes an inspection robot having a plurality of wheels, wherein the plurality of wheels are positioned to engage an inspection surface when the inspection robot is positioned on the inspection surface; wherein each of the plurality of wheels comprises a magnetic hub portion interposed between enclosure portions; and wherein the inspection robot further comprises a gear box motively coupled to at least one of the wheels, and a means for reducing magnetically induced axial loads on gears of the gear box.
An example system includes an inspection robot, and a plurality of sleds mounted to the inspection robot; a plurality of acoustic sensors, wherein each acoustic sensor is mounted to a corresponding one of the sleds such that the sensor is operationally couplable to an inspection surface in contact with a bottom surface of the corresponding one of the sleds; and a couplant chamber disposed within each of the plurality of sleds, each couplant chamber interposed between a transducer of the acoustic sensor mounted to the sled and the inspection surface.
Certain further aspects of an example system are described following, any one or more of which may be included in certain embodiments of the example system.
An example system may further include wherein each couplant chamber includes a cone, the cone including a cone tip portion at an inspection surface end of the cone, and a sensor mounting end opposite the cone tip portion, and wherein the cone tip portion defines a couplant exit opening.
An example system may further include a couplant entry for the couplant chamber, wherein the couplant entry is positioned between the cone tip portion and the sensor mounting end.
An example system may further include wherein the couplant entry is positioned at a vertically upper side of the cone when the inspection robot is positioned on the inspection surface.
An example system may further include wherein each sled includes a couplant connection conduit, wherein the couplant connection conduit is coupled to a payload couplant connection at an upstream end, and coupled to the couplant entry of the cone at a downstream end.
An example method includes providing a sled for an inspection robot, the sled including an acoustic sensor mounted thereon and a couplant chamber disposed within the sled, and the couplant chamber having a couplant entry; coupling the sled to a payload of the inspection robot at an upstream end of a couplant connection conduit, the couplant connection conduit coupled to the couplant entry at a downstream end.
Certain further aspects of an example method are described following, any one or more of which may be included in certain embodiments of the example method.
An example method may further include de-coupling the sled from the payload of the inspection robot, and coupling a distinct sled to the payload of the inspection robot, without disconnecting the couplant connection conduit from the couplant entry.
An example apparatus includes a controller, the controller including: a position definition circuit structured to interpret position information for an inspection robot on an inspection surface; a data positioning circuit structured to interpret inspection data from the inspection robot, and to correlate the inspection data to the position information to determine position informed inspection data; and wherein the data positioning circuit is further structured to provide the position informed inspection data as one of additional inspection data or updated inspection data.
Certain further aspects of an example apparatus are described following, any one or more of which may be included in certain embodiments of the example apparatus.
An example apparatus may further include wherein the position information includes one of relative position information or absolute position information.
An example apparatus may further include wherein the position definition circuit is further structured to determine the position information according to at least one of: global positioning service (GPS) data; an ultra-wide band radio frequency (RF) signal; a LIDAR measurement; a dead reckoning operation; a relationship of the inspection robot position to a reference point; a barometric pressure value; and a known sensed value correlated to a position of the inspection robot.
An example apparatus may further include wherein the position definition circuit is further structured to interpret a plant shape value, to determine a definition of a plant space including the inspection surface in response to the plant shape value, and to correlate the inspection data with a plant position information (e.g., into plant position values) in response to the definition of the plant space and the position information.
An example method includes: interpreting position information for an inspection robot on an inspection surface; interpreting inspection data from the inspection robot; correlating the inspection data to the position information to determine position informed inspection data; and providing the position informed inspection data as one of additional inspection data or updated inspection data.
Certain further aspects of an example method are described following, any one or more of which may be included in certain embodiments of the example method.
An example method may further include updating the position information for the inspection robot, and correcting the position informed inspection data.
An example method may further include wherein the position information includes position information determined at least partially in response to a dead reckoning operation, and wherein the updated position information is determined at least partially in response to feedback position operation.
An example method may further include determining a plant definition value, and to determine plant position values in response to the plant definition value and the position information.
An example method may further include providing the position informed inspection data further in response to the plant position values.
An example apparatus includes: an inspection data circuit structured to interpret inspection data from an inspection robot on an inspection surface; a robot positioning circuit structured to interpret position data for the inspection robot; and an inspection visualization circuit structured to determine an inspection map in response to the inspection data and the position data, and to provide at least a portion of the inspection map for display to a user.
Certain further aspects of an example apparatus are described following, any one or more of which may be included in certain embodiments of the example apparatus.
An example apparatus may further include wherein the inspection visualization circuit is further responsive structured to interpret a user focus value, and to update the inspection map in response to the user focus value.
An example apparatus may further include wherein the inspection visualization circuit is further responsive structured to interpret a user focus value, and to provide focus data in response to the user focus value.
An example apparatus may further include wherein the inspection map includes a physical depiction of the inspection surface.
An example apparatus may further include the inspection map further includes a visual representation of at least a portion of the inspection data depicted on the inspection surface.
An example apparatus may further include wherein the inspection map includes a virtual mark for a portion of the inspection surface.
An example apparatus includes: an acoustic data circuit structured to interpret return signals from an inspection surface to determine raw acoustic data; a thickness processing circuit structured to determine a primary mode score value in response to the raw acoustic data, and in response to the primary mode score value exceeding a predetermined threshold, determining a primary mode value corresponding to a thickness of the inspection surface material.
Certain further aspects of an example apparatus are described following, any one or more of which may be included in certain embodiments of the example apparatus.
An example apparatus may further include wherein the thickness processing circuit is further structured to determine, in response to the primary mode score value not exceeding the predetermined threshold, a secondary mode score value in response to the raw acoustic data.
An example apparatus may further include wherein the thickness processing circuit is further structured to determine, in response to the secondary mode score value exceeding a threshold, a secondary mode value corresponding to a thickness of the inspection surface material.
An example apparatus may further include wherein the thickness processing circuit is further structured to determine the primary mode score value in response to at least one parameter selected from the parameters consisting of: a time of arrival for a primary return; a time of arrival for a secondary return; a character of a peak for the primary return; a character of a peak for the secondary return; a sensor alignment determination for an acoustic sensor providing the return signals; a sled position for a sled having the acoustic sensor mounted thereupon; and a couplant anomaly indication.
An example apparatus may further include wherein the secondary mode value including a value determined from a number of reflected peaks of the return signals.
An example apparatus may further include wherein the raw acoustic data includes a lead inspection data, the apparatus further including: a sensor configuration circuit structured to determine a configuration adjustment for a trailing sensor in response to the lead inspection data; and a sensor operation circuit structured to adjust at least one parameter of the trailing sensor in response to the configuration adjustment; and a trailing sensor responsive to the configuration adjustment.
An example apparatus may further include wherein the acoustic data circuit is further structured to interpret trailing inspection data from the trailing sensor.
An example apparatus may further include wherein the configuration adjustment includes at least one adjustment selected from the adjustments consisting of: changing of sensing parameters of the trailing sensor; wherein the trailing sensor includes an ultra-sonic sensor, and changing a cut-off time to observe a peak value for the trailing sensor; enabling operation of the trailing sensor; adjusting a sensor sampling rate of the trailing sensor; adjusting a fault cut-off value for the trailing sensor; adjusting a sensor range of the trailing sensor; adjusting a resolution value of the trailing sensor; changing a movement speed of an inspection robot, wherein the trailing sensor is operationally coupled to the inspection robot.
An example apparatus may further include wherein a lead sensor providing the lead inspection data includes a first sensor during a first inspection run, and wherein the trailing sensor includes the first sensor during a second inspection run.
An example apparatus may further include wherein the acoustic data circuit is further structured to interpret the lead inspection data and interpret the trailing inspection data in a single inspection run.
An example apparatus may further include the wherein the raw acoustic data includes a lead inspection data, the apparatus further including: a sensor configuration circuit structured to determine a configuration adjustment in response to the lead inspection data, and wherein the configuration includes an instruction to utilize at least one of a consumable, a slower, or a more expensive trailing operation in response to the lead inspection data.
An example apparatus may further include wherein the trailing operation includes at least one operation selected from the operations consisting of: a sensing operation; a repair operation; and a marking operation.
An example apparatus includes: an electromagnetic (EM) data circuit structured to interpret EM induction data provided by a magnetic induction sensor; a substrate distance circuit structured to determine a substrate distance value between the magnetic induction sensor and a ferrous substrate of an inspection surface; and an EM diagnostic circuit structured to provide a diagnostic value in response to the substrate distance value.
Certain further aspects of an example apparatus are described following, any one or more of which may be included in certain embodiments of the example apparatus.
An example apparatus may further include wherein the diagnostic value includes at least one value selected from the values consisting of: a rationality check indicating whether the sensor is positioned in proximity to the inspection surface; and a sensor position value indicating a distance from a second sensor to the substrate of the inspection surface.
An example apparatus may further include: an acoustic data circuit structured to interpret return signals from the inspection surface to determine raw acoustic data; a thickness processing circuit structured to: determine a primary mode score value in response to the raw acoustic data and further in response to the rationality check; and in response to the primary mode score value exceeding a predetermined threshold, determining a primary mode value corresponding to a thickness of the inspection surface material.
An example apparatus may further include: an acoustic data circuit structured to interpret return signals from the inspection surface to determine raw acoustic data; a thickness processing circuit structured to: determine a primary mode score value in response to the raw acoustic data and further in response to the sensor position value; and in response to the primary mode score value exceeding a predetermined threshold, determining a primary mode value corresponding to a thickness of the inspection surface material.
An example apparatus may further include: an acoustic data circuit structured to interpret return signals from the inspection surface to determine raw acoustic data; a thickness processing circuit structured to: determine a primary mode score value in response to the raw acoustic data and further in response to the diagnostic value; and in response to the primary mode score value exceeding a predetermined threshold, determining a primary mode value corresponding to a thickness of the inspection surface material.
An example method includes: determining an induction processing parameter; and adjusting an inspection plan for an inspection robot in response to the induction processing parameter.
Certain further aspects of an example method are described following, any one or more of which may be included in certain embodiments of the example method.
An example method may further include wherein the induction processing parameter includes at least one parameter selected from the parameters consisting of: a substrate distance value, a sensor position value, and a rationality diagnostic value.
An example method may further include wherein the adjusting the inspection plan includes at least one operation selected from the operations consisting of: adjusting a sensor calibration value; adjusting a trailing sensor calibration value; adjusting an inspection resolution value for a sensor used in the inspection plan; adjusting at least one of a number, a type, or a positioning of a plurality of sensors used in the inspection plan; adjusting an inspection trajectory of the inspection robot; adjusting a sled ramp configuration for the inspection robot; adjusting a down force for a sled of the inspection robot; and adjusting a down force for a sensor of the inspection robot.
An example method may further include performing an additional inspection operation in response to the induction processing parameter.
An example method may further include wherein the adjusting includes adjusting an inspection trajectory of the inspection robot to follow a detected feature on an inspection surface.
An example method may further include wherein the detected feature includes at least one feature selected from the features consisting of: a weld, a groove, a crack, and a coating difference area.
An example method may further include an operation to respond to the detected feature.
An example method may further include wherein the operation to respond to the detected feature includes at least one operation selected from the operations consisting of: a repair operation; a treatment operation; a weld operation; an epoxy application operation; a cleaning operation; a marking operation; and a coating operation.
An example method may further include detecting a feature on the inspection surface, and marking the feature virtually on an inspection map.
An example method may further include detecting a feature on the inspection surface, and marking the feature with a mark not in the visible spectrum.
An example method may further include wherein the marking further includes utilizing at least one of an ultra-violet dye, a penetrant, and a virtual mark.
An example method includes: performing an inspection operation on an inspection surface, the inspection operation including an inspection surface profiling operation; determining a contour of at least a portion of the inspection surface in response to the surface profiling operation; and adjusting a calibration of an ultra-sonic sensor in response to the contour.
Certain further aspects of an example method are described following, any one or more of which may be included in certain embodiments of the example method.
An example method may further include wherein the adjusting is performed as a post-processing operation.
An example method includes: performing an inspection operation on an inspection surface, the inspection operation including interrogating the inspection surface with an electromagnetic sensor; determining an induction processing parameter in response to the interrogating; and adjusting a calibration of an ultra-sonic sensor in response to the induction processing parameter.
Certain further aspects of an example method are described following, any one or more of which may be included in certain embodiments of the example method.
An example method may further include wherein the adjusting is performed as a post-processing operation.
An example method includes: interpreting inspection data from an inspection robot on an inspection surface; interpreting position data for the inspection robot; and determining an inspection map in response to the inspection data and the position data, and providing at least a portion of the inspection map for display to a user.
Certain further aspects of an example method are described following, any one or more of which may be included in certain embodiments of the example method.
An example method may further include wherein the inspection map includes at least one parameter selected from the parameters consisting of: how much material should be added to the inspection surface; and a type of repair that should be applied to the inspection surface.
An example method may further include wherein the inspection map further includes an indication of a time until a repair of the inspection surface will be required.
An example method may further include accessing a facility wear model, and determining the time until a repair of the inspection surface will be required in response to the facility wear model.
An example method may further include wherein the inspection map further includes an indication of a time that a repair of the inspection surface is expected to last.
An example method may further include accessing a facility wear model, and determining the time that the repair of the inspection surface is expected to last in response to the facility wear model.
An example method may further include determining the time that the repair of the inspection surface is expected to last in response to a type of repair to be performed.
An example method may further include presenting a user with a number of repair options, and further determining the time that the repair of the inspection surface is expected to last in response to a selected one of the number of repair options.
An example method includes accessing an industrial system comprising an inspection surface, wherein the inspection surface comprises a personnel risk feature; operating an inspection robot to inspect at least a portion of the inspection surface, wherein the operating the inspection is performed with at least a portion of the industrial system providing the personnel risk feature still operating; interpreting position information for the inspection robot on the inspection surface; interpreting inspection data from the inspection robot; correlating the inspection data to the position information to determine position informed inspection data; and providing the position informed inspection data as one of additional inspection data or updated inspection data.
An example system including an inspection robot with a sensor configuration circuit structured to determine a configuration adjustment for a trailing sensor in response to the lead inspection data; a sensor operation circuit structured to adjust at least one parameter of the trailing sensor in response to the configuration adjustment; and a trailing sensor responsive to the configuration adjustment, the inspection robot interpreting position information on an inspection surface, interpreting inspection data from the inspection robot, correlating the inspection data to the position information to determine position informed inspection data, and providing the position informed inspection data as one of additional inspection data or updated inspection data.
An example system including an inspection robot comprising at least one payload; a plurality of arms, wherein each of the plurality of arms is pivotally mounted to the at least one payload; a plurality of sleds, wherein each sled is pivotally mounted to one of the plurality of arms, wherein the plurality of sleds are distributed horizontally across the payload; and a plurality of sensors, wherein each sensor is mounted to a corresponding plurality of sleds such that the sensor is operationally couplable to an inspection surface in contact with a bottom surface of the plurality of sleds.
An example system including an inspection robot, and a plurality of sleds mounted to the inspection robot; a plurality of acoustic sensors, wherein each acoustic sensor is mounted to a corresponding one of the sleds such that the sensor is operationally couplable to an inspection surface in contact with a bottom surface of the corresponding one of the sleds; and a couplant chamber disposed within each of the plurality of sleds, each couplant chamber interposed between a transducer of the acoustic sensor mounted to the sled and the inspection surface; the inspection robot providing a fixed acoustic path between a sensor coupled to an inspection robot and an inspection surface, filling the acoustic path with a couplant, and acoustically interrogating the inspection surface with the sensor.
An example system including an inspection robot, and a plurality of sleds mounted to the inspection robot; a plurality of acoustic sensors, wherein each acoustic sensor is mounted to a corresponding one of the sleds such that the sensor is operationally couplable to an inspection surface in contact with a bottom surface of the corresponding one of the sleds; a couplant chamber disposed within each of the plurality of sleds, each couplant chamber interposed between a transducer of the acoustic sensor mounted to the sled and the inspection surface; wherein each couplant chamber comprises a cone, the cone comprising a cone tip portion at an inspection surface end of the cone, and a sensor mounting end opposite the cone tip portion, and wherein the cone tip portion defines a couplant exit opening.
An example system including an inspection robot, and a plurality of sleds mounted to the inspection robot; a plurality of sensors, wherein each sensor is mounted to a corresponding one of the sleds such that the sensor is operationally couplable to an inspection surface in contact with a bottom surface of the corresponding one of the sleds; a couplant chamber disposed within each of the plurality of sleds, each couplant chamber interposed between a transducer of the sensor mounted to the sled and the inspection surface, wherein each couplant chamber comprises a cone, the cone comprising a cone tip portion at an inspection surface end of the cone, and a sensor mounting end opposite the cone tip portion, and wherein the cone tip portion defines a couplant exit opening; the inspection robot providing a fixed acoustic path between a sensor coupled to an inspection robot and an inspection surface; filling the acoustic path with a couplant; and acoustically interrogating the inspection surface with the sensor.
A system, comprising: an inspection robot comprising a plurality of payloads; a plurality of arms, wherein each of the plurality of arms is pivotally mounted to one of the plurality of payloads; and a plurality of sleds, wherein each sled is pivotally mounted to one of the plurality of arms, wherein each sled comprises an upper portion and a replaceable lower portion having a bottom surface, and a plurality of sensors, wherein each sensor is mounted to a corresponding one of the sleds such that the sensor is operationally couplable to an inspection surface in contact with a bottom surface of the corresponding one of the sleds.
An example system including an inspection robot comprising at least one payload; a plurality of arms, wherein each of the plurality of arms is pivotally mounted to the at least one payload; a plurality of sleds, wherein each sled is pivotally mounted to one of the plurality of arms, and wherein the plurality of sleds are distributed horizontally across the payload; an acoustic data circuit structured to interpret return signals from an inspection surface to determine raw acoustic data; a thickness processing circuit structured to determine a primary mode score value in response to the raw acoustic data, and in response to the primary mode score value exceeding a predetermined threshold, determining a primary mode value corresponding to a thickness of the inspection surface material.
An example system including an inspection robot comprising at least one payload; a plurality of arms, wherein each of the plurality of arms is pivotally mounted to the at least one payload; a plurality of sleds, wherein each sled is pivotally mounted to one of the plurality of arms, and wherein the plurality of sleds are distributed horizontally across the payload; an electromagnetic (EM) data circuit structured to interpret EM induction data provided by a magnetic induction sensor; a substrate distance circuit structured to determine a substrate distance value between the magnetic induction sensor and a ferrous substrate of an inspection surface; and an EM diagnostic circuit structured to provide a diagnostic value in response to the substrate distance value.
An example system including an inspection robot comprising a plurality of payloads; a plurality of arms, wherein each of the plurality of arms is pivotally mounted to one of the plurality of payloads; a plurality of sleds, wherein each sled is pivotally mounted to one of the plurality of arms; a plurality of sensors, wherein each sensor is mounted to a corresponding one of the sleds such that the sensor is operationally couplable to an inspection surface in contact with a bottom surface of the corresponding one of the sleds; a biasing member disposed within each of the sleds, wherein the biasing member provides a down force to the corresponding one of the plurality of sensors; the inspection robot providing a fixed acoustic path between a sensor coupled to an inspection robot and an inspection surface, filling the acoustic path with a couplant, and acoustically interrogating the inspection surface with the sensor.
An example system includes an inspection robot having a plurality of wheels, wherein the plurality of wheels are positioned to engage an inspection surface when the inspection robot is positioned on the inspection surface; wherein each of the plurality of wheels comprises a magnetic hub portion interposed between enclosure portions; wherein the inspection robot further comprises a gear box motively coupled to at least one of the wheels, and wherein the gear box comprises at least one thrust washer axially interposed between two gears of the gear box; and wherein the enclosure portions extend past the magnetic hub portion and thereby prevent contact of the magnetic hub portion with the inspection surface.
An example system including an inspection robot comprising a plurality of payloads; a plurality of arms, wherein each of the plurality of arms is mounted to one of the plurality of payloads; a plurality of sleds, wherein each sled is pivotally mounted to one of the plurality of arms; a plurality of sensors, wherein each sensor is mounted to a corresponding one of the sleds such that the sensor is operationally couplable to an inspection surface in contact with a bottom surface of the corresponding one of the sleds, wherein each sled is pivotally mounted to one of the plurality of arms at a selected one of a plurality of pivot point positions; and a controller configured to select the one of the plurality of pivot point positions during an inspection run of the inspection robot, the controller configured to select the one of the plurality of pivot point positions in response to a travel direction of the inspection robot, wherein each sled is pivotally mounted to one of the plurality of arms at a plurality of pivot point positions.
An example system including an inspection data circuit structured to interpret lead inspection data from a lead sensor; a sensor configuration circuit structured to determine a configuration adjustment for a trailing sensor in response to the lead inspection data; a sensor operation circuit structured to adjust at least one parameter of the trailing sensor in response to the configuration adjustment; the system interpreting inspection data from an inspection robot on an inspection surface; interpreting position data for the inspection robot; and determining an inspection map in response to the inspection data and the position data, and providing at least a portion of the inspection map for display to a user.
An example method including determining an inspection resolution for an inspection surface; configuring an inspection robot by providing a plurality of horizontally distributed sensors operationally coupled to the inspection robot in response to the inspection resolution; performing an inspection operation on the inspection surface at a resolution at least equal to the inspection resolution, wherein the plurality of horizontally distributed sensors are provided on a first payload of the inspection robot, and wherein the configuring the inspection robot further comprises enhancing at least one of a horizontal sensing resolution or a vertical sensing resolution of the inspection robot by providing a second plurality of horizontally distributed sensors on a second payload of the inspection robot; interpreting inspection data from the inspection robot on an inspection surface; interpreting position data for the inspection robot; and determining an inspection map in response to the inspection data and the position data, and providing at least a portion of the inspection map for display to a user.
An example system including an inspection robot comprising at least one payload; a plurality of arms, wherein each of the plurality of arms is pivotally mounted to the at least one payload; a plurality of sleds, wherein each sled is pivotally mounted to one of the plurality of arms; and a plurality of sensors mounted on each of the plurality of sleds; the inspection robot determining an induction processing parameter, and adjusting an inspection plan for an inspection robot in response to the induction processing parameter.
An example system including an inspection robot comprising at least one payload; a plurality of arms, wherein each of the plurality of arms is pivotally mounted to the at least one payload; a plurality of sleds, wherein each sled is pivotally mounted to one of the plurality of arms; a plurality of sensors mounted on each of the plurality of sleds; an inspection data circuit structured to interpret lead inspection data from a lead sensor; a sensor configuration circuit structured to determine a configuration adjustment for a trailing sensor in response to the lead inspection data; and a sensor operation circuit structured to adjust at least one parameter of the trailing sensor in response to the configuration adjustment.
An example system including an inspection robot comprising a plurality of payloads; a plurality of arms, wherein each of the plurality of arms is pivotally mounted to one of the plurality of payloads; a plurality of sleds, wherein each sled is pivotally mounted to one of the plurality of arms, and wherein each sled comprises a bottom surface; and a removable layer positioned on each of the bottom surfaces; the inspection robot determining an induction processing parameter, and adjusting an inspection plan for an inspection robot in response to the induction processing parameter.
An example system including an inspection robot having a plurality of wheels, wherein the plurality of wheels are positioned to engage an inspection surface when the inspection robot is positioned on the inspection surface, wherein each of the plurality of wheels comprises a magnetic hub portion interposed between enclosure portions, wherein the enclosure portions extend past the magnetic hub portion and thereby prevent contact of the magnetic hub portion with the inspection surface, the inspection robot providing a fixed acoustic path between a sensor coupled to an inspection robot and an inspection surface, filling the acoustic path with a couplant, and acoustically interrogating the inspection surface with the sensor.
An example method includes: performing an inspection operation on an inspection surface, the inspection operation including an inspection surface profiling operation; detecting a feature on the inspection surface and marking the feature virtually on an inspection map; determining a contour of at least a portion of the inspection surface in response to the surface profiling operation; and adjusting a calibration of an ultra-sonic sensor in response to the contour.
Certain further aspects of an example method are described following, any one or more of which may be included in certain embodiments of the example method.
An example method may further include wherein the inspection operation includes interrogating the inspection surface with an electromagnetic sensor; determining an induction processing parameter in response to the interrogating; and further adjusting the calibration of the ultra-sonic sensor in response to the induction processing parameter.
An example method may further include wherein the detected feature includes at least one feature selected from the features consisting of: a weld, a groove, a crack, and a coating difference area.
An example apparatus includes: an inspection data circuit structured to interpret inspection data from an inspection robot on an inspection surface; a robot positioning circuit structured to interpret position data for the inspection robot; an electromagnetic (EM) data circuit structured to interpret EM induction data provided by a magnetic induction sensor; a substrate distance circuit structured to determine a substrate distance value between the magnetic induction sensor and a ferrous substrate of an inspection surface; an EM diagnostic circuit structured to provide a diagnostic value in response to the substrate distance value; and an inspection visualization circuit structured to determine an inspection map in response to the inspection data and the position data, and to provide at least a portion of the inspection map for display to a user.
Certain further aspects of an example apparatus are described following, any one or more of which may be included in certain embodiments of the example apparatus.
An example apparatus may further include wherein the diagnostic value includes at least one value selected from the values consisting of: a rationality check indicating whether the sensor is positioned in proximity to the inspection surface; and a sensor position value indicating a distance from a second sensor to the substrate of the inspection surface.
An example apparatus may further include wherein the inspection visualization circuit is further responsively structured to interpret a user focus value, and to update the inspection map in response to the user focus value.
An example method includes: determining an inspection resolution for an inspection surface; configuring an inspection robot by providing a plurality of horizontally distributed sensors operationally coupled to the inspection robot in response to the inspection resolution; performing an inspection operation on the inspection surface at a resolution at least equal to the inspection resolution; interpreting inspection data from the inspection robot on the inspection surface; interpreting position data for the inspection robot; determining an inspection map in response to the inspection data and the position data; detecting a feature on the inspection surface and marking the feature virtually on the inspection map; and providing at least a portion of the inspection map for display to a user.
Certain further aspects of an example method are described following, any one or more of which may be included in certain embodiments of the example method.
An example method may further include wherein the performing the inspection operation includes interrogating the inspection surface acoustically utilizing the plurality of horizontally distributed sensors.
An example apparatus includes: a controller, the controller including: an electromagnetic (EM) data circuit structured to interpret EM induction data provided by a magnetic induction sensor; a substrate distance circuit structured to determine a substrate distance value between the magnetic induction sensor and a ferrous substrate of an inspection surface; an EM diagnostic circuit structured to provide a diagnostic value in response to the substrate distance value; a position definition circuit structured to interpret position information for an inspection robot on an inspection surface; and a data positioning circuit to correlate the substrate distance values to the position information to determine position informed substrate distance values and wherein the data positioning circuit is further structured to provide the position informed substrate distance values as one of additional inspection data or updated inspection data.
Certain further aspects of an example apparatus are described following, any one or more of which may be included in certain embodiments of the example apparatus.
An example apparatus may further include wherein the diagnostic value includes at least one value selected from the values consisting of: a rationality check indicating whether the sensor is positioned in proximity to the inspection surface; and a sensor position value indicating a distance from a second sensor to the substrate of the inspection surface.
An example apparatus may further include wherein the position definition circuit is further structured to determine the position information according to at least one of: global positioning service (GPS) data; an ultra-wide band radio frequency (RF) signal; a LIDAR measurement; a dead reckoning operation; a relationship of the inspection robot position to a reference point; a barometric pressure value; and a known sensed value correlated to a position of the inspection robot.
An example apparatus includes: an acoustic data circuit structured to interpret return signals from an inspection surface to determine raw acoustic data; a thickness processing circuit structured to determine a primary mode score value in response to the raw acoustic data, and in response to the primary mode score value exceeding a predetermined threshold, determining a primary mode value corresponding to a thickness of the inspection surface material; a robot positioning circuit structured to interpret position data for the inspection robot; and an inspection visualization circuit structured to determine an inspection map in response to the thickness of the inspection surface material and the position data, and to provide at least a portion of the inspection map for display to a user.
Certain further aspects of an example apparatus are described following, any one or more of which may be included in certain embodiments of the example apparatus.
An example apparatus may further include wherein the inspection visualization circuit is further structured to determine an inspection map in response to the primary mode score value.
An example apparatus may further include wherein the thickness processing circuit is further structured to determine, in response to the primary mode score value not exceeding the predetermined threshold, a secondary mode score value in response to the raw acoustic data.
An example method includes: accessing an industrial system including an inspection surface, wherein the inspection surface includes a personnel risk feature; operating an inspection robot to inspect at least a portion of the inspection surface, wherein the inspection robot has a plurality of wheels and wherein each of the plurality of wheels includes a magnetic hub portion interposed between enclosure portions, the enclosure portions extending past the magnetic hub portion and thereby preventing contact of the magnetic hub portion with the inspection surf; and wherein operating the inspection is performed with at least a portion of the industrial system providing the personnel risk feature still operating.
Certain further aspects of an example method are described following, any one or more of which may be included in certain embodiments of the example method.
An example method may further include wherein the personnel risk feature includes at least one of a portion of the inspection surface having an elevated height, an elevated temperature of at least a portion of the inspection surface, a portion of the inspection surface is positioned within the enclosed space, and an electrical power connection.
An example method may further include determining a position of the inspection robot within the industrial system during the operating the inspection robot, and shutting down only a portion of the industrial system during the inspection operation in response to the position of the inspection robot.
An example system includes: an inspection robot including: a plurality of payloads; a plurality of arms, wherein each of the plurality of arms is pivotally mounted to one of the plurality of payloads; and a plurality of sleds, wherein each sled is pivotally mounted to one of the plurality of arms, and wherein each sled includes a bottom surface; and a removable layer positioned on each of the bottom surfaces; and a controller, the controller including: an electromagnetic (EM) data circuit structured to interpret EM induction data provided by a magnetic induction sensor; a substrate distance circuit structured to determine a substrate distance value between the magnetic induction sensor and a ferrous substrate of an inspection surface; and an EM diagnostic circuit structured to provide a diagnostic value in response to the substrate distance value.
Certain further aspects of an example system are described following, any one or more of which may be included in certain embodiments of the example system.
An example system may further include wherein at least one of the sleds includes a magnetic induction sensor.
An example system may further include wherein the removable layer includes a thickness providing a selected spatial orientation between an inspection contact side of the removable layer and the bottom surface.
An example system may further include wherein the diagnostic value includes at least one value selected from the values consisting of: a rationality check indicating whether the sensor is positioned in proximity to the inspection surface; and a sensor position value indicating a distance from a second sensor to the substrate of the inspection surface.
An example system includes: an inspection robot including: at least one payload; a plurality of arms, wherein each of the plurality of arms is pivotally mounted to the at least one payload; a plurality of sleds, wherein each sled is pivotally mounted to one of the plurality of arms, and wherein the plurality of sleds are distributed horizontally across the payload; and wherein the horizontal distribution of the plurality of sleds provides for a selected horizontal resolution of the plurality of sensors.
An example system includes: an inspection robot including: a payload; a plurality of arms, wherein each of the plurality of arms is pivotally mounted to the payload; a plurality of sleds, wherein each sled is pivotally mounted to one of the plurality of arms, thereby configuring a horizontal distribution of the plurality of sleds; a plurality of sensors, wherein each sensor is mounted to a corresponding one of the sleds such that the sensor is operationally couplable to an inspection surface in contact with a bottom surface of the corresponding one of the sleds; and a couplant chamber disposed within each of the plurality of sleds, each couplant chamber interposed between a transducer of the sensor mounted to the sled and the inspection surface.
Certain further aspects of an example system are described following, any one or more of which may be included in certain embodiments of the example system.
An example system may further include wherein the horizontal distribution of the plurality of sleds provides for a selected horizontal resolution of the plurality of sensors.
An example system may further include a controller configured to determine the selected horizontal resolution and to configure a position of the plurality of arms on the payload in response to the selected horizontal resolution.
An example system may further include wherein each couplant chamber includes a cone, the cone including a cone tip portion at an inspection surface end of the cone, and a sensor mounting end opposite the cone tip portion, and wherein the cone tip portion defines a couplant exit opening.
An example system includes: an inspection robot; a plurality of sleds mounted to the inspection robot, wherein each sled is pivotally mounted at a selected one of a plurality of pivot point positions; a plurality of sensors, wherein each sensor is mounted to a corresponding one of the sleds such that the sensor is operationally couplable to an inspection surface in contact with a bottom surface of the corresponding one of the sleds; and a couplant chamber disposed within each of the plurality of sleds, each couplant chamber interposed between a transducer of the sensor mounted to the sled and the inspection surface.
Certain further aspects of an example system are described following, any one or more of which may be included in certain embodiments of the example system.
An example system may further include a controller configured to select the one of the plurality of pivot point positions during an inspection run of the inspection robot.
An example system may further include wherein each couplant chamber includes a cone, the cone including a cone tip portion at an inspection surface end of the cone, and a sensor mounting end opposite the cone tip portion, and wherein the cone tip portion defines a couplant exit opening.
An example system includes an inspection robot including a plurality of payloads; a plurality of arms, wherein each of the plurality of arms is pivotally mounted to one of the plurality of payloads; a plurality of sleds, wherein each sled is mounted to one of the plurality of arms at a selected one of a plurality of pivot point positions; a plurality of sensors, wherein each sensor is mounted to a corresponding one of the sleds such that the sensor is operationally couplable to an inspection surface in contact with a bottom surface of the corresponding one of the sleds; a couplant chamber disposed within each of the plurality of sleds, each couplant chamber interposed between a transducer of the sensor mounted to the sled and the inspection surface; and a biasing member coupled to each one of the plurality of arms, and wherein the biasing member provides a biasing force to corresponding one of the plurality of sleds, wherein the biasing force is directed toward the inspection surface.
An example system includes: an inspection robot, and a plurality of sleds mounted to the inspection robot; a plurality of sensors, wherein each sensor is mounted to a corresponding one of the sleds such that the sensor is operationally couplable to an inspection surface in contact with a bottom surface of the corresponding one of the sleds, wherein the bottom surface of the corresponding one of the sleds is contoured in response to a shape of the inspection surface; and a couplant chamber disposed within each of the plurality of sleds, each couplant chamber interposed between a transducer of the sensor mounted to the sled and the inspection surface.
Certain further aspects of an example system are described following, any one or more of which may be included in certain embodiments of the example system.
An example system may further include wherein each couplant chamber includes a cone, the cone including a cone tip portion at an inspection surface end of the cone, and a sensor mounting end opposite the cone tip portion, and wherein the cone tip portion defines a couplant exit opening.
An example system may further include wherein the inspection surface includes a pipe outer wall, and wherein the bottom surface of the corresponding one of the sleds includes a concave shape.
An example system may further include wherein the bottom surface of the corresponding one of the sleds includes at least one shape selected from the shapes consisting of: a concave shape, a convex shape, and a curved shape.
An example system includes: an inspection robot including a plurality of payloads; a plurality of arms, wherein each of the plurality of arms is pivotally mounted to one of the plurality of payloads; a plurality of sleds, wherein each sled is mounted to one of the plurality of arms, a plurality of sensors, wherein each sensor is mounted to a corresponding one of the sleds such that the sensor is operationally couplable to an inspection surface in contact with a bottom surface of the corresponding one of the sleds, wherein the bottom surface of the corresponding one of the sleds is contoured in response to a shape of the inspection surface; a couplant chamber disposed within each of the plurality of sleds, each couplant chamber interposed between a transducer of the sensor mounted to the sled and the inspection surface; and a biasing member coupled to each one of the plurality of arms, and wherein the biasing member provides a biasing force to corresponding one of the plurality of sleds, wherein the biasing force is directed toward the inspection surface.
An example method includes: providing an inspection robot having a plurality of payloads and a corresponding plurality of sleds for each of the payloads, wherein the bottom surface of the corresponding one of the sleds is contoured in response to a shape of an inspection surface; mounting a sensor on each of the sleds, each sensor mounted to a couplant chamber interposed between the sensor and the inspection surface, and each couplant chamber including a couplant entry for the couplant chamber; changing one of the plurality of payloads to a distinct payload; and wherein the changing of the plurality of payloads does not include dismounting any of the sensors from corresponding couplant chambers.
An example system includes an inspection robot including a plurality of payloads; a plurality of arms, wherein each of the plurality of arms is pivotally mounted to one of the plurality of payloads; and a plurality of sleds, wherein each sled is pivotally mounted to one of the plurality of arms, and wherein each sled includes a bottom surface defining a ramp and wherein each sled defines a chamber sized to accommodate a sensor.
Certain further aspects of an example system are described following, any one or more of which may be included in certain embodiments of the example system.
An example system may further include wherein each chamber further includes a stop, and wherein each of the plurality of sensors is positioned against the stop.
An example system may further include wherein each sensor positioned against the stop has a predetermined positional relationship with a bottom surface of the corresponding one of the plurality of sleds.
An example system may further include wherein each sled further includes the bottom surface defining two ramps, wherein the two ramps include a forward ramp and a rearward ramp.
An example system may further include wherein the ramp include at least one of a ramp angle and a ramp total height value.
An example system may further include wherein the at least one of the ramp angle and the ramp total height value are configured to traverse an obstacle on an inspection surface to be traversed by the inspection robot.
An example system includes: an inspection robot including a plurality of payloads; a plurality of arms, wherein each of the plurality of arms is pivotally mounted to one of the plurality of payloads; and a plurality of sleds, wherein each sled is pivotally mounted to one of the plurality of arms, and wherein each sled defines a chamber sized to accommodate a sensor, and wherein the bottom surface of the corresponding one of the sleds is contoured in response to a shape of an inspection surface.
Certain further aspects of an example system are described following, any one or more of which may be included in certain embodiments of the example system.
An example system may further include wherein each chamber further includes a stop, and wherein each of the plurality of sensors is positioned against the stop.
An example system may further include wherein each sensor positioned against the stop has a predetermined positional relationship with a bottom surface of the corresponding one of the plurality of sleds.
An example system may further include wherein the inspection surface includes a pipe outer wall, and wherein the bottom surface of the corresponding one of the sleds includes a concave shape.
An example system may further include wherein the bottom surface of the corresponding one of the sleds includes at least one shape selected from the shapes consisting of: a concave shape, a convex shape, and a curved shape.
An example system includes: an inspection robot including: a payload; a plurality of arms, wherein each of the plurality of arms is pivotally mounted to the payload; a plurality of sleds, wherein each sled is pivotally mounted to one of the plurality of arms, thereby configuring a horizontal distribution of the plurality of sleds; a plurality of sensors, wherein each sensor is mounted to a corresponding one of the sleds such that the sensor is operationally couplable to an inspection surface in contact with a bottom surface of the corresponding one of the sleds, wherein the bottom surface of the corresponding one of the sleds is contoured in response to a shape of an inspection surface; and a couplant chamber disposed within each of the plurality of sleds, each couplant chamber interposed between a transducer of the sensor mounted to the sled and the inspection surface.
Certain further aspects of an example system are described following, any one or more of which may be included in certain embodiments of the example system.
An example system may further include wherein the horizontal distribution of the plurality of sleds provides for a selected horizontal resolution of the plurality of sensors.
An example system may further include a controller configured to determine the selected horizontal resolution and to configure a position of the plurality of arms on the payload in response to the selected horizontal resolution.
An example system may further include wherein each couplant chamber includes a cone, the cone including a cone tip portion at an inspection surface end of the cone, and a sensor mounting end opposite the cone tip portion, and wherein the cone tip portion defines a couplant exit opening.
An example system may further include wherein the inspection surface includes a pipe outer wall, and wherein the bottom surface of the corresponding one of the sleds includes a concave shape.
An example system may further include wherein the bottom surface of the corresponding one of the sleds includes at least one shape selected from the shapes consisting of: a concave shape, a convex shape, and a curved shape.
An example system includes: an inspection robot including: a payload; a plurality of arms, wherein each of the plurality of arms is pivotally mounted to the payload; a plurality of sleds, wherein each sled is pivotally mounted to one of the plurality of arms at a selected one of a plurality of pivot point positions; thereby configuring a horizontal distribution of the plurality of sleds; a plurality of sensors, wherein each sensor is mounted to a corresponding one of the sleds such that the sensor is operationally couplable to an inspection surface in contact with a bottom surface of the corresponding one of the sleds, and a couplant chamber disposed within each of the plurality of sleds, each couplant chamber interposed between a transducer of the sensor mounted to the sled and the inspection surface.
Certain further aspects of an example system are described following, any one or more of which may be included in certain embodiments of the example system.
An example system may further include wherein the horizontal distribution of the plurality of sleds provides for a selected horizontal resolution of the plurality of sensors.
An example system may further include a controller configured to determine the selected horizontal resolution and to configure a position of the plurality of arms on the payload in response to the selected horizontal resolution.
An example system may further include wherein each couplant chamber includes a cone, the cone including a cone tip portion at an inspection surface end of the cone, and a sensor mounting end opposite the cone tip portion, and wherein the cone tip portion defines a couplant exit opening.
An example system includes: an inspection robot; a plurality of sleds mounted to the inspection robot, wherein each sled is pivotally mounted at a selected one of a plurality of pivot point positions; a plurality of sensors, wherein each sensor is mounted to a corresponding one of the sleds such that the sensor is operationally couplable to an inspection surface in contact with a bottom surface of the corresponding one of the sleds, wherein the bottom surface of the corresponding one of the sleds is contoured in response to a shape of an inspection surface; and a couplant chamber disposed within each of the plurality of sleds, each couplant chamber interposed between a transducer of the sensor mounted to the sled and the inspection surface.
Certain further aspects of an example system are described following, any one or more of which may be included in certain embodiments of the example system.
An example system may further include a controller configured to select the one of the plurality of pivot point positions during an inspection run of the inspection robot.
An example system may further include wherein each couplant chamber includes a cone, the cone including a cone tip portion at an inspection surface end of the cone, and a sensor mounting end opposite the cone tip portion, and wherein the cone tip portion defines a couplant exit opening.
An example system may further include wherein the inspection surface includes a pipe outer wall, and wherein the bottom surface of the corresponding one of the sleds includes a concave shape.
An example system may further include wherein the bottom surface of the corresponding one of the sleds includes at least one shape selected from the shapes consisting of: a concave shape, a convex shape, and a curved shape.
An example system includes: an inspection robot including: a payload; a plurality of arms, wherein each of the plurality of arms is pivotally mounted to the payload; a plurality of sleds, wherein each sled is pivotally mounted to one of the plurality of arms at a selected one of a plurality of pivot point positions; thereby configuring a horizontal distribution of the plurality of sleds; a plurality of sensors, wherein each sensor is mounted to a corresponding one of the sleds such that the sensor is operationally couplable to an inspection surface in contact with a bottom surface of the corresponding one of the sleds, wherein the bottom surface of the corresponding one of the sleds is contoured in response to a shape of an inspection surface; and a couplant chamber disposed within each of the plurality of sleds, each couplant chamber interposed between a transducer of the sensor mounted to the sled and the inspection surface.
Certain further aspects of an example system are described following, any one or more of which may be included in certain embodiments of the example system.
An example system may further include wherein the horizontal distribution of the plurality of sleds provides for a selected horizontal resolution of the plurality of sensors.
An example system may further include a controller configured to determine the selected horizontal resolution and to configure a position of the plurality of arms on the payload in response to the selected horizontal resolution.
An example system may further include wherein each couplant chamber includes a cone, the cone including a cone tip portion at an inspection surface end of the cone, and a sensor mounting end opposite the cone tip portion, and wherein the cone tip portion defines a couplant exit opening.
An example system may further include wherein the inspection surface includes a pipe outer wall, and wherein the bottom surface of the corresponding one of the sleds includes a concave shape.
An example system may further include wherein the bottom surface of the corresponding one of the sleds includes at least one shape selected from the shapes consisting of: a concave shape, a convex shape, and a curved shape.
The methods and systems described herein may be deployed in part or in whole through a machine having a computer, computing device, processor, circuit, and/or server that executes computer readable instructions, program codes, instructions, and/or includes hardware configured to functionally execute one or more operations of the methods and systems disclosed herein. The terms computer, computing device, processor, circuit, and/or server, as utilized herein, should be understood broadly.
Any one or more of the terms computer, computing device, processor, circuit, and/or server include a computer of any type, capable to access instructions stored in communication thereto such as upon a non-transient computer readable medium, whereupon the computer performs operations of systems or methods described herein upon executing the instructions. In certain embodiments, such instructions themselves comprise a computer, computing device, processor, circuit, and/or server. Additionally or alternatively, a computer, computing device, processor, circuit, and/or server may be a separate hardware device, one or more computing resources distributed across hardware devices, and/or may include such aspects as logical circuits, embedded circuits, sensors, actuators, input and/or output devices, network and/or communication resources, memory resources of any type, processing resources of any type, and/or hardware devices configured to be responsive to determined conditions to functionally execute one or more operations of systems and methods herein.
Network and/or communication resources include, without limitation, local area network, wide area network, wireless, internet, or any other known communication resources and protocols. Example and non-limiting hardware, computers, computing devices, processors, circuits, and/or servers include, without limitation, a general purpose computer, a server, an embedded computer, a mobile device, a virtual machine, and/or an emulated version of one or more of these. Example and non-limiting hardware, computers, computing devices, processors, circuits, and/or servers may be physical, logical, or virtual. A computer, computing device, processor, circuit, and/or server may be: a distributed resource included as an aspect of several devices; and/or included as an interoperable set of resources to perform described functions of the computer, computing device, processor, circuit, and/or server, such that the distributed resources function together to perform the operations of the computer, computing device, processor, circuit, and/or server. In certain embodiments, each computer, computing device, processor, circuit, and/or server may be on separate hardware, and/or one or more hardware devices may include aspects of more than one computer, computing device, processor, circuit, and/or server, for example as separately executable instructions stored on the hardware device, and/or as logically partitioned aspects of a set of executable instructions, with some aspects of the hardware device comprising a part of a first computer, computing device, processor, circuit, and/or server, and some aspects of the hardware device comprising a part of a second computer, computing device, processor, circuit, and/or server.
A computer, computing device, processor, circuit, and/or server may be part of a server, client, network infrastructure, mobile computing platform, stationary computing platform, or other computing platform. A processor may be any kind of computational or processing device capable of executing program instructions, codes, binary instructions and the like. The processor may be or include a signal processor, digital processor, embedded processor, microprocessor or any variant such as a co-processor (math co-processor, graphic co-processor, communication co-processor and the like) and the like that may directly or indirectly facilitate execution of program code or program instructions stored thereon. In addition, the processor may enable execution of multiple programs, threads, and codes. The threads may be executed simultaneously to enhance the performance of the processor and to facilitate simultaneous operations of the application. By way of implementation, methods, program codes, program instructions and the like described herein may be implemented in one or more threads. The thread may spawn other threads that may have assigned priorities associated with them; the processor may execute these threads based on priority or any other order based on instructions provided in the program code. The processor may include memory that stores methods, codes, instructions and programs as described herein and elsewhere. The processor may access a storage medium through an interface that may store methods, codes, and instructions as described herein and elsewhere. The storage medium associated with the processor for storing methods, programs, codes, program instructions or other type of instructions capable of being executed by the computing or processing device may include but may not be limited to one or more of a CD-ROM, DVD, memory, hard disk, flash drive, RAM, ROM, cache and the like.
A processor may include one or more cores that may enhance speed and performance of a multiprocessor. In embodiments, the process may be a dual core processor, quad core processors, other chip-level multiprocessor and the like that combine two or more independent cores (called a die).
The methods and systems described herein may be deployed in part or in whole through a machine that executes computer readable instructions on a server, client, firewall, gateway, hub, router, or other such computer and/or networking hardware. The computer readable instructions may be associated with a server that may include a file server, print server, domain server, internet server, intranet server and other variants such as secondary server, host server, distributed server and the like. The server may include one or more of memories, processors, computer readable transitory and/or non-transitory media, storage media, ports (physical and virtual), communication devices, and interfaces capable of accessing other servers, clients, machines, and devices through a wired or a wireless medium, and the like. The methods, programs, or codes as described herein and elsewhere may be executed by the server. In addition, other devices required for execution of methods as described in this application may be considered as a part of the infrastructure associated with the server.
The server may provide an interface to other devices including, without limitation, clients, other servers, printers, database servers, print servers, file servers, communication servers, distributed servers, and the like. Additionally, this coupling and/or connection may facilitate remote execution of instructions across the network. The networking of some or all of these devices may facilitate parallel processing of program code, instructions, and/or programs at one or more locations without deviating from the scope of the disclosure. In addition, all the devices attached to the server through an interface may include at least one storage medium capable of storing methods, program code, instructions, and/or programs. A central repository may provide program instructions to be executed on different devices. In this implementation, the remote repository may act as a storage medium for methods, program code, instructions, and/or programs.
The methods, program code, instructions, and/or programs may be associated with a client that may include a file client, print client, domain client, internet client, intranet client and other variants such as secondary client, host client, distributed client and the like. The client may include one or more of memories, processors, computer readable transitory and/or non-transitory media, storage media, ports (physical and virtual), communication devices, and interfaces capable of accessing other clients, servers, machines, and devices through a wired or a wireless medium, and the like. The methods, program code, instructions, and/or programs as described herein and elsewhere may be executed by the client. In addition, other devices utilized for execution of methods as described in this application may be considered as a part of the infrastructure associated with the client.
The client may provide an interface to other devices including, without limitation, servers, other clients, printers, database servers, print servers, file servers, communication servers, distributed servers, and the like. Additionally, this coupling and/or connection may facilitate remote execution of methods, program code, instructions, and/or programs across the network. The networking of some or all of these devices may facilitate parallel processing of methods, program code, instructions, and/or programs at one or more locations without deviating from the scope of the disclosure. In addition, all the devices attached to the client through an interface may include at least one storage medium capable of storing methods, program code, instructions, and/or programs. A central repository may provide program instructions to be executed on different devices. In this implementation, the remote repository may act as a storage medium for methods, program code, instructions, and/or programs.
The methods and systems described herein may be deployed in part or in whole through network infrastructures. The network infrastructure may include elements such as computing devices, servers, routers, hubs, firewalls, clients, personal computers, communication devices, routing devices and other active and passive devices, modules, and/or components as known in the art. The computing and/or non-computing device(s) associated with the network infrastructure may include, apart from other components, a storage medium such as flash memory, buffer, stack, RAM, ROM and the like. The methods, program code, instructions, and/or programs described herein and elsewhere may be executed by one or more of the network infrastructural elements.
The methods, program code, instructions, and/or programs described herein and elsewhere may be implemented on a cellular network having multiple cells. The cellular network may either be frequency division multiple access (FDMA) network or code division multiple access (CDMA) network. The cellular network may include mobile devices, cell sites, base stations, repeaters, antennas, towers, and the like.
The methods, program code, instructions, and/or programs described herein and elsewhere may be implemented on or through mobile devices. The mobile devices may include navigation devices, cell phones, mobile phones, mobile personal digital assistants, laptops, palmtops, netbooks, pagers, electronic books readers, music players, and the like. These mobile devices may include, apart from other components, a storage medium such as a flash memory, buffer, RAM, ROM and one or more computing devices. The computing devices associated with mobile devices may be enabled to execute methods, program code, instructions, and/or programs stored thereon. Alternatively, the mobile devices may be configured to execute instructions in collaboration with other devices. The mobile devices may communicate with base stations interfaced with servers and configured to execute methods, program code, instructions, and/or programs. The mobile devices may communicate on a peer to peer network, mesh network, or other communications network. The methods, program code, instructions, and/or programs may be stored on the storage medium associated with the server and executed by a computing device embedded within the server. The base station may include a computing device and a storage medium. The storage device may store methods, program code, instructions, and/or programs executed by the computing devices associated with the base station.
The methods, program code, instructions, and/or programs may be stored and/or accessed on machine readable transitory and/or non-transitory media that may include: computer components, devices, and recording media that retain digital data used for computing for some interval of time; semiconductor storage known as random access memory (RAM); mass storage typically for more permanent storage, such as optical discs, forms of magnetic storage like hard disks, tapes, drums, cards and other types; processor registers, cache memory, volatile memory, non-volatile memory; optical storage such as CD, DVD; removable media such as flash memory (e.g., USB sticks or keys), floppy disks, magnetic tape, paper tape, punch cards, standalone RAM disks, Zip drives, removable mass storage, off-line, and the like; other computer memory such as dynamic memory, static memory, read/write storage, mutable storage, read only, random access, sequential access, location addressable, file addressable, content addressable, network attached storage, storage area network, bar codes, magnetic ink, and the like.
Certain operations described herein include interpreting, receiving, and/or determining one or more values, parameters, inputs, data, or other information. Operations including interpreting, receiving, and/or determining any value parameter, input, data, and/or other information include, without limitation: receiving data via a user input; receiving data over a network of any type; reading a data value from a memory location in communication with the receiving device; utilizing a default value as a received data value; estimating, calculating, or deriving a data value based on other information available to the receiving device; and/or updating any of these in response to a later received data value. In certain embodiments, a data value may be received by a first operation, and later updated by a second operation, as part of the receiving a data value. For example, when communications are down, intermittent, or interrupted, a first operation to interpret, receive, and/or determine a data value may be performed, and when communications are restored an updated operation to interpret, receive, and/or determine the data value may be performed.
Certain logical groupings of operations herein, for example methods or procedures of the current disclosure, are provided to illustrate aspects of the present disclosure. Operations described herein are schematically described and/or depicted, and operations may be combined, divided, re-ordered, added, or removed in a manner consistent with the disclosure herein. It is understood that the context of an operational description may require an ordering for one or more operations, and/or an order for one or more operations may be explicitly disclosed, but the order of operations should be understood broadly, where any equivalent grouping of operations to provide an equivalent outcome of operations is specifically contemplated herein. For example, if a value is used in one operational step, the determining of the value may be required before that operational step in certain contexts (e.g. where the time delay of data for an operation to achieve a certain effect is important), but may not be required before that operation step in other contexts (e.g. where usage of the value from a previous execution cycle of the operations would be sufficient for those purposes). Accordingly, in certain embodiments an order of operations and grouping of operations as described is explicitly contemplated herein, and in certain embodiments re-ordering, subdivision, and/or different grouping of operations is explicitly contemplated herein.
The methods and systems described herein may transform physical and/or or intangible items from one state to another. The methods and systems described herein may also transform data representing physical and/or intangible items from one state to another.
The elements described and depicted herein, including in flow charts, block diagrams, and/or operational descriptions, depict and/or describe specific example arrangements of elements for purposes of illustration. However, the depicted and/or described elements, the functions thereof, and/or arrangements of these, may be implemented on machines, such as through computer executable transitory and/or non-transitory media having a processor capable of executing program instructions stored thereon, and/or as logical circuits or hardware arrangements. Example arrangements of programming instructions include at least: monolithic structure of instructions; standalone modules of instructions for elements or portions thereof; and/or as modules of instructions that employ external routines, code, services, and so forth; and/or any combination of these, and all such implementations are contemplated to be within the scope of embodiments of the present disclosure Examples of such machines include, without limitation, personal digital assistants, laptops, personal computers, mobile phones, other handheld computing devices, medical equipment, wired or wireless communication devices, transducers, chips, calculators, satellites, tablet PCs, electronic books, gadgets, electronic devices, devices having artificial intelligence, computing devices, networking equipment, servers, routers and the like. Furthermore, the elements described and/or depicted herein, and/or any other logical components, may be implemented on a machine capable of executing program instructions. Thus, while the foregoing flow charts, block diagrams, and/or operational descriptions set forth functional aspects of the disclosed systems, any arrangement of program instructions implementing these functional aspects are contemplated herein. Similarly, it will be appreciated that the various steps identified and described above may be varied, and that the order of steps may be adapted to particular applications of the techniques disclosed herein. Additionally, any steps or operations may be divided and/or combined in any manner providing similar functionality to the described operations. All such variations and modifications are contemplated in the present disclosure. The methods and/or processes described above, and steps thereof, may be implemented in hardware, program code, instructions, and/or programs or any combination of hardware and methods, program code, instructions, and/or programs suitable for a particular application. Example hardware includes a dedicated computing device or specific computing device, a particular aspect or component of a specific computing device, and/or an arrangement of hardware components and/or logical circuits to perform one or more of the operations of a method and/or system. The processes may be implemented in one or more microprocessors, microcontrollers, embedded microcontrollers, programmable digital signal processors or other programmable device, along with internal and/or external memory. The processes may also, or instead, be embodied in an application specific integrated circuit, a programmable gate array, programmable array logic, or any other device or combination of devices that may be configured to process electronic signals. It will further be appreciated that one or more of the processes may be realized as a computer executable code capable of being executed on a machine readable medium.
The computer executable code may be created using a structured programming language such as C, an object oriented programming language such as C++, or any other high-level or low-level programming language (including assembly languages, hardware description languages, and database programming languages and technologies) that may be stored, compiled or interpreted to run on one of the above devices, as well as heterogeneous combinations of processors, processor architectures, or combinations of different hardware and computer readable instructions, or any other machine capable of executing program instructions.
Thus, in one aspect, each method described above and combinations thereof may be embodied in computer executable code that, when executing on one or more computing devices, performs the steps thereof. In another aspect, the methods may be embodied in systems that perform the steps thereof, and may be distributed across devices in a number of ways, or all of the functionality may be integrated into a dedicated, standalone device or other hardware. In another aspect, the means for performing the steps associated with the processes described above may include any of the hardware and/or computer readable instructions described above. All such permutations and combinations are contemplated in embodiments of the present disclosure.
This application claims priority to, and is a continuation of, U.S. patent application Ser. No. 17/484,643 (Attorney Docket No. GROB-0003-U01-C11-C01), filed Sep. 24, 2021, and entitled “SYSTEM, METHOD, AND APPARATUS FOR INSPECTING A SURFACE,” published as US 2022-0011777 A1. U.S. patent application Ser. No. 17/484,643 is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15/997,569 (Attorney Docket No. GROB-0003-U01-C11), filed Jun. 4, 2018, and entitled “SYSTEM, METHOD, AND APPARATUS FOR INSPECTING A SURFACE,” issued as U.S. Pat. No. 11,144,063 on Oct. 12, 2021. U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15/997,569 (Attorney Docket No. GROB-0003-U01-C11) claims the benefit of priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 62/596,737 (Attorney Docket No. GROB-0003-P01), filed Dec. 8, 2017, and entitled “METHOD AND APPARATUS TO INSPECT A SURFACE UTILIZING REAL-TIME POSITION INFORMATION”. U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15/997,569 (Attorney Docket No. GROB-0003-U01-C11) is also a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15/853,391 (Attorney Docket No. GROB-0003-U01), filed Dec. 22, 2017, entitled “INSPECTION ROBOT”, issued as U.S. Pat. No. 10,698,412 on Jun. 30, 2020. U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15/853,391 (Attorney Docket No. GROB-0003-U01) claims the benefit of priority to the following U.S. Provisional patent applications: Ser. No. 62/438,788 (Attorney Docket No. GROB-0001-P01), filed Dec. 23, 2016, and entitled “STRUCTURE TRAVERSING ROBOT WITH INSPECTION FUNCTIONALITY”; and Ser. No. 62/596,737 (Attorney Docket No. GROB-0003-P01), filed Dec. 8, 2017, and entitled “METHOD AND APPARATUS TO INSPECT A SURFACE UTILIZING REAL-TIME POSITION INFORMATION”. Each of the foregoing applications is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.
Number | Date | Country | |
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62596737 | Dec 2017 | US | |
62438788 | Dec 2016 | US | |
62596737 | Dec 2017 | US |
Number | Date | Country | |
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Parent | 17484643 | Sep 2021 | US |
Child | 18731490 | US | |
Parent | 15997569 | Jun 2018 | US |
Child | 17484643 | US | |
Parent | 15853391 | Dec 2017 | US |
Child | 15997569 | US |