CA2418857A1 - Method for real time display of maintenance device location in an internal space - Google Patents
Method for real time display of maintenance device location in an internal space Download PDFInfo
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- CA2418857A1 CA2418857A1 CA002418857A CA2418857A CA2418857A1 CA 2418857 A1 CA2418857 A1 CA 2418857A1 CA 002418857 A CA002418857 A CA 002418857A CA 2418857 A CA2418857 A CA 2418857A CA 2418857 A1 CA2418857 A1 CA 2418857A1
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- internal space
- real time
- maintenance device
- time display
- device location
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- H—ELECTRICITY
- H04—ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
- H04N—PICTORIAL COMMUNICATION, e.g. TELEVISION
- H04N7/00—Television systems
- H04N7/18—Closed-circuit television [CCTV] systems, i.e. systems in which the video signal is not broadcast
- H04N7/183—Closed-circuit television [CCTV] systems, i.e. systems in which the video signal is not broadcast for receiving images from a single remote source
- H04N7/185—Closed-circuit television [CCTV] systems, i.e. systems in which the video signal is not broadcast for receiving images from a single remote source from a mobile camera, e.g. for remote control
Abstract
A method for real time display of maintenance device location in an internal space includes a real time location display. An inspection window includes the real time location display, an observations spreadsheet, and a distance display. If the maintenance device is a video camera, a video screen is also included in the inspection window. The inspection window is displayed on a computer monitor. As a video camera is moved through an internal space, a video signal and distance signal are sent to a computer. Location display software on the computer receives the distance signal and provides a real time location display of the distance that the video camera has traveled. The observations spreadsheet enables an operator to enter information concerning a particular distance measurement of interest and which is also shown on the real time location display. The video screen displays real time video camera feed.
Description
METHOD FOR REAL TIME DISPLAY OF
MAINTENANCE DEVICE LOCATION IN AN INTERNAL SPACE
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
1. Field of the Invention The present :invention relates generally to performing maintenance in the interior of a pipeline or the like and more specifically to a method for real time display of maintenance device location in an internal space.
MAINTENANCE DEVICE LOCATION IN AN INTERNAL SPACE
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
1. Field of the Invention The present :invention relates generally to performing maintenance in the interior of a pipeline or the like and more specifically to a method for real time display of maintenance device location in an internal space.
2. Discussion of the Prior Art There are numerous maintenance devices, such as jetting nozzles, root cutters, deflection sensors, and video cameras which are used to perform maintenance in the interior of pipelines, building duct work, conduits, or the like. The location of the maintenance device is always of interest t.o the operator. Software packages which produce a static model of a pipeline after the pipeline is inspected are well known i.n the art. The static model software package typically include a database system, video capture, distance tracking, and reporting capabilities. The hardware required to view a pipeline include a video camera, a camera transportation device, and a distance counter.
The software package will take the information gathered from the pipeline inspection and produ~~e a static model of the pipeline.
The static pipeline model includes di:~tance measurements which are placed adjacent to the sides of the static pipeline model. The distance measurements correspond to different observations in the pipeline such as cracks, roots, infiltration, laterals, or any :l other important observation.
With the prior art software packages, the operator cannot instantly travel t.o another po~~:ition without carefully watching the video to insure they are in tlue correct position in the pipeline.
Further, a video camera may be damaged if the operator does not stop the camera transportation device, before returning to a starting manhole opening. It. appears that no method exists for monitoring the real time location of a video camera, or other maintenance device in a pipeline or the like.
Accordingly, there is a:~ c:Learly felt need in the art for a method for real time display of maintenance device location in an internal space which enables the viewing of the location of the maintenance device in an intEernal space, the distance the maintenance device has t.r_avel.ed, a display of the length of pipeline traveled, and distance measurements of important observations in the internal space.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
The present inventic>n provides a method for real time display of maintenance device locat:.ion in an internal space. The internal space should include pipelines, building duct work, conduits, or other suitable applications. The method for real time display of maintenance device location in an internal space includes a real time location display. An inspection window preferably includes the real time location display, an observations spreadsheet, and a distance display. If the maintenance device is a video camera, a video screen is also included in the inspection window.
Preferably, the real time Lc>cation display, the observations spreadsheet, the video screen, and tree distance display are each shown in a separat=a window. Each of the separate windows are contained within tree inspe~~tion window, which may be displayed on a computer monitor . The video ~>cmeen requires the use of some type of video capture device.
Use of the video camera in a pipeline is given by way of example and not by way of limitation, other maintenance devices moving in other internal spaces could also be used. A video camera is moved through a pipeline with a transporter, cable, or other suitable device. The distance that the video camera travels is measured with a distance encoder. The video signal from the video camera is output to an video overlay device. A distance signal from the distance encoder i:~ also output to the video overlay device. The video signal is overlaid with a distance measurement from the distance signal. The overlaid video signal is output to a video recording device and a computer. The video recording device could be a video cassette recorder (VCR), a hard drive of a computer, a compact disc recorder, or any other suitable video recording device. A distarace signal. from the video overlay device is also output to t;he computer.
Location display software receives the distance signal and provides a real time location di:~play of the distance that the video camera has traveled. The observations spreadsheet enables an operator to enter information concerning a particular location of interest. The video screen di:~p=Lays the video feed of the video camera. The distance ~~ispLay receives the distance signal and converts the signal. into a numeric display.
The real time location display includes an internal space representation and a maintenance device icon. At least one line is used to illustrate the internal space representation. The video camera icon moves lengthwise relative to the at least one line.
Optionally, a dimensional scale may be offset to a side of the internal space representation. The dimensional scale can have divisions which are static, such 'that additional distance traveled by the video camera adds a division to the dimensional scale. The dimensional scale can also be scaled such that the length of the dimensional scale always fits in a set window length. Entry of information into the observations spreadsheet will be represented on the real time locatioru disp:Lay. If the operator makes an observation at a particular distance, the distance may be shown adjacent the real time location display. A real time dimensional scale with maintenance device icons may be substituted for the dimensional scale.
Accordingly, it is an obje<~t of the present .invention to provide a method for real t=ime display of maintenance device location in an internal space which enables the real time viewing of the location of the maintenance device in the internal space.
It is a further object of them present invention to provide a method for real time disp:.l.ay of maintenance device location in an internal space which displays the distance the maintenance device has traveled.
The software package will take the information gathered from the pipeline inspection and produ~~e a static model of the pipeline.
The static pipeline model includes di:~tance measurements which are placed adjacent to the sides of the static pipeline model. The distance measurements correspond to different observations in the pipeline such as cracks, roots, infiltration, laterals, or any :l other important observation.
With the prior art software packages, the operator cannot instantly travel t.o another po~~:ition without carefully watching the video to insure they are in tlue correct position in the pipeline.
Further, a video camera may be damaged if the operator does not stop the camera transportation device, before returning to a starting manhole opening. It. appears that no method exists for monitoring the real time location of a video camera, or other maintenance device in a pipeline or the like.
Accordingly, there is a:~ c:Learly felt need in the art for a method for real time display of maintenance device location in an internal space which enables the viewing of the location of the maintenance device in an intEernal space, the distance the maintenance device has t.r_avel.ed, a display of the length of pipeline traveled, and distance measurements of important observations in the internal space.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
The present inventic>n provides a method for real time display of maintenance device locat:.ion in an internal space. The internal space should include pipelines, building duct work, conduits, or other suitable applications. The method for real time display of maintenance device location in an internal space includes a real time location display. An inspection window preferably includes the real time location display, an observations spreadsheet, and a distance display. If the maintenance device is a video camera, a video screen is also included in the inspection window.
Preferably, the real time Lc>cation display, the observations spreadsheet, the video screen, and tree distance display are each shown in a separat=a window. Each of the separate windows are contained within tree inspe~~tion window, which may be displayed on a computer monitor . The video ~>cmeen requires the use of some type of video capture device.
Use of the video camera in a pipeline is given by way of example and not by way of limitation, other maintenance devices moving in other internal spaces could also be used. A video camera is moved through a pipeline with a transporter, cable, or other suitable device. The distance that the video camera travels is measured with a distance encoder. The video signal from the video camera is output to an video overlay device. A distance signal from the distance encoder i:~ also output to the video overlay device. The video signal is overlaid with a distance measurement from the distance signal. The overlaid video signal is output to a video recording device and a computer. The video recording device could be a video cassette recorder (VCR), a hard drive of a computer, a compact disc recorder, or any other suitable video recording device. A distarace signal. from the video overlay device is also output to t;he computer.
Location display software receives the distance signal and provides a real time location di:~play of the distance that the video camera has traveled. The observations spreadsheet enables an operator to enter information concerning a particular location of interest. The video screen di:~p=Lays the video feed of the video camera. The distance ~~ispLay receives the distance signal and converts the signal. into a numeric display.
The real time location display includes an internal space representation and a maintenance device icon. At least one line is used to illustrate the internal space representation. The video camera icon moves lengthwise relative to the at least one line.
Optionally, a dimensional scale may be offset to a side of the internal space representation. The dimensional scale can have divisions which are static, such 'that additional distance traveled by the video camera adds a division to the dimensional scale. The dimensional scale can also be scaled such that the length of the dimensional scale always fits in a set window length. Entry of information into the observations spreadsheet will be represented on the real time locatioru disp:Lay. If the operator makes an observation at a particular distance, the distance may be shown adjacent the real time location display. A real time dimensional scale with maintenance device icons may be substituted for the dimensional scale.
Accordingly, it is an obje<~t of the present .invention to provide a method for real t=ime display of maintenance device location in an internal space which enables the real time viewing of the location of the maintenance device in the internal space.
It is a further object of them present invention to provide a method for real time disp:.l.ay of maintenance device location in an internal space which displays the distance the maintenance device has traveled.
It is a further object of 1=he present invention to provide a method for real time display of maintenance device location in an internal space that-, allows a scaled display of the length of internal space traveled in real rime.
Finally, it i~~ another object of the present invention to provide a method for real time display of maintenance device location in an internal space that shows in real time the distance measurements of important observ<~tions in the internal space.
These and additional objects, advantages, features and benefits of the present invention will become apparent from the following specification.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
Figure 1 is an inspection window of a method for real time display of maintenance device location in an internal space in accordance with the present invention.
Figure 2 is a block diagram of hardware devices that gather information in a method for real time display of maintenance device location in an internal space in accordance with the present s_nvention .
Figure 3 is an observations window of a method for real time display of maintenance device location in an internal space in accordance with the present invention.
Figure 4a is a real time location display of a method for real time display of maintenance device location i.n an internal space in accordance with the present invention.
Figure 4b is a real time location display of a method for real time display of maintenance device location in an internal space with a dimensional scale which has been scaled to reflect additional distance travelf:d by a maintenance device in accordance with the present invention.
Figure 4c is a real time dimensional scale with a moving window and fixed distance sca=Le of ~~ method for real time display of maintenance device location in an internal space in accordance with the present invention.
Figure 4d is a real time dimensional scale with a moving window and fixed distance scale after movement of a maintenance device 72 feet of a method for real t-imc~ display of maintenance device location in an internal space in accordance with the present invention.
Figure 5 is a section window of a method for real time display of maintenance device location in a pipeline in accordance with the present invention.
Figure 6 is a second embodiment of a real time location display of a method for real time display of maintenance device location in an internal space in accordance with the present invention.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS
With reference now t:o the drawings, and particularly to figure 1, there is shown ,gin inspec:tion window 10. The information found in the inspection window 10 is given by way of example and not by way of limitation. The met.hoc~ For real time display of maintenance device location in an internal space includes a real time location display 12. An inspection window 10 preferably includes the real time location display 12, an observations spreadsheet 14, and a distance display 15. It the maintenance device is a video camera, a video screen 18 is also included in the inspection window 10.
Preferably, the real time location display 12, the observations spreadsheet 14, the distance display 16, and the video screen 18 are each shown in a separate window. Each of the separate windows are contained within the inspection window 10, which may be displayed on a computer monitor 110. The video screen 18 requires the use of some type of video capture device.
With reference to figure 2, use of the video camera 100 in a pipeline is given by way of example and not by way of limitation, other maintenance devices moving in other internal spaces could also be used. The video camera 100 is moved through a pipeline with a transporter, cable, or other suitable device. The distance that the video camera 100 travels is measured with a distance encoder 102. A video signal from the video camera 100 is output to an video overlay device 104. A distance signal from the distance encoder 102 is also output to the video overlay device L04. The video signal is continually overlaid with an ever changing distance measurement, from the distance signal. The overlaid video signal is output to a video recording device 106 and a computer 108. The video recording device 106 could be a video cassette recorder (VCR), a hard drive of a computer, a compact disc recorder, or any other suitable video recording device. The distance signal from the video overlay device 104 is also output to the computer 108.
Location display software receives the distance signal and provides a real time location display 12 of the video camera 100 movement within the pipeline. The observations spreadsheet 14 enables an operator to enter information concerning a particular location of interest. An observation; window 20 provides a list of categories and comments for entry into the observations spreadsheet 14. The video screen 18 displays the video feed of the video camera 100. The distance display 16 receives the distance signal and converts the signal lIlto a numeric display.
The real time location disp:Lay 12 includes an internal space representation 22, and a maintenance device icon 24. At least one line is preferably used to illustrate the internal space representation 22. However, other graphical representations of the internal space may also be used, besides the at least one line. A
starting manhole 28 and an ending manhole may be used to terminate the end of the at least one Line. However, the manholes would not be needed for representing a small section of sewer pipeline or for other nonsewer applications. The maintenance device icon 24 moves lengthwise relative to the at least one line. The at least one line in figure 1 is shown as being vertical, but the orientation of the at least one line could be horizontal or at any angle.
Optionally, a dimensional Scale 26 may be offset to a side of the internal space representation 22. The dimensional scale 26 can have divisions which are static, such that additional distance the video camera 100 travel, adds a division to the dimensional scale.
New divisions would be added to the dimensional scale 26 as the video camera 100 moves through a pipeline. With reference to figures 4a & 4b, the dimensional scale 26 may be scaled such that the length of the dimensional scale always fits into a set window length. The dimensions disclose~~ in figures 4a & 4b are given by way of example and not by way of limitation.
Figure 4a shows a maintenance device icon 24 at 11.8 feet and a first observation at 9.2 feet. Figure 4b shows a maintenance device icon 24 at 18.6 feet and the first observation at 9.2 feet.
In figure 4b, the length of the dimensional scale 26' has not changed, but the illustrated length of the dimensional scale has changed from 12.0 feet to 18.0 feet. The scaled dimensional scale 26' is continually updated as t:he video camera 100 moves through a pipeline. It is preferable to use an x - y plotting package capable of scale t.o produce the scaled dimensional scale 26'. An x - y plotting package from Iocomp of Orlando, Florida has been found to produce satisfactory results.
With reference to figures ~tc & 4d, a real time dimensional scale 27 is substituted for the dimensional scale 26. In figure 4c, the maintenance device icon 24 is currently at 5.0 feet. The distance of the real time dimensional scale 27 is 10.0 feet, because the maintenance device icon 24 is located in the center of the real time dimensional scale 27. With reference to figure 4d, the maintenance device icon 24 has traveled 72.0 feet. The lower dimension is 72.0 feet and the upper dimension is 82.0 feet. The maintenance device icon 24 is centered at 77.0 feet. Preferably, the distance of the real time dimensional scale 27 may be set to any appropriate distance.
The observations spreadsheet 14 disclosed in figure 1 is given by way of example and not by way of limitation. The observations spreadsheet 14 discloses t:he entry of information concerning a video camera. However, less information would be needed for other types of maintenance devir:es. Entry of information into the observations spreadsheet 14 wil7_ be represented on the real time location display 12. If the operator makes an observation at a distance through an internal space, the distance is shown on the observations spreadsheet 14 and preferably duplicated on the real time location display 12. Preferably, the distance of the observation is displayed with the number of the observation. With reference to figure 5, the first manhole circle 28 and second manhole circle 30 are assigned an identification by making an entry through the section window 32.
A second embodiment of a rea='._ time location display 13 is shown in figure 6. The real time location display 13 includes an internal space represent at: ion 22 , and a maintenance device icon 24 .
Instead using a distance measurement and observation number to represent an observation, an icon. is used. Preferably, there would be a plurality of icons whic_~h would each represent a particular observation. For example, there would be a root icon 35 to represent an ingrr~wrl root:, a joint icon 36 to represent water infiltration, or a crack icon 3f3 to represent a crack in a pipe.
A user could run t-he arrow of a mouse over the icon or click the icon to reveal the distance measurement, observation number, bubble help, multimedia information, or other observation information.
The observations spreadsheet: 14 includes the ability to enter several characteristics of the observation. The observations spreadsheet 14 preferably includes columns for distance, category, comment, video, stall, position, VCR, and notes. Distance of an observation is recorded in the distance column. Category of an observation is recorded in the category column. The category is a one word explanation of the observation. The category is preferably chosen from a list: of categories in the observations window 20. If the category of "service" is chosen, a service connection 34 is displ<~yed adja~~ent the dimension.
A comment concerning an observation is recorded in the comment column. The comment is an observation of a few words. A video or still frame of the observation is represented by a camcorder or video camera icon, respectively in the V and S columns. A video capture may be stored or a single picture of the observation.
Position of an observation is recorded in the position column. The position of the observation is preferably represented by the value of an hour hand on a clor_k. The time where the observation occurs on a VCR tape is shown in the VCR column. The invention should not be limited to only using a VCR tape for recording the video feed, but other video recordi ng hardware or met~nods may also be used.
Other comments concerning an observation nuay be recorded in the Notes column.
While particular embodiments of the invention have been shown and described, it will be c~bv,iou~> to t=hose skilled in the art that changes and modifications may be made without departing from the invention in its broader aspects, and therefore, the aim in the appended claims is to cover a1:1 such changes and modifications as fall within the true spirit and scope of the invention.
Finally, it i~~ another object of the present invention to provide a method for real time display of maintenance device location in an internal space that shows in real time the distance measurements of important observ<~tions in the internal space.
These and additional objects, advantages, features and benefits of the present invention will become apparent from the following specification.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
Figure 1 is an inspection window of a method for real time display of maintenance device location in an internal space in accordance with the present invention.
Figure 2 is a block diagram of hardware devices that gather information in a method for real time display of maintenance device location in an internal space in accordance with the present s_nvention .
Figure 3 is an observations window of a method for real time display of maintenance device location in an internal space in accordance with the present invention.
Figure 4a is a real time location display of a method for real time display of maintenance device location i.n an internal space in accordance with the present invention.
Figure 4b is a real time location display of a method for real time display of maintenance device location in an internal space with a dimensional scale which has been scaled to reflect additional distance travelf:d by a maintenance device in accordance with the present invention.
Figure 4c is a real time dimensional scale with a moving window and fixed distance sca=Le of ~~ method for real time display of maintenance device location in an internal space in accordance with the present invention.
Figure 4d is a real time dimensional scale with a moving window and fixed distance scale after movement of a maintenance device 72 feet of a method for real t-imc~ display of maintenance device location in an internal space in accordance with the present invention.
Figure 5 is a section window of a method for real time display of maintenance device location in a pipeline in accordance with the present invention.
Figure 6 is a second embodiment of a real time location display of a method for real time display of maintenance device location in an internal space in accordance with the present invention.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS
With reference now t:o the drawings, and particularly to figure 1, there is shown ,gin inspec:tion window 10. The information found in the inspection window 10 is given by way of example and not by way of limitation. The met.hoc~ For real time display of maintenance device location in an internal space includes a real time location display 12. An inspection window 10 preferably includes the real time location display 12, an observations spreadsheet 14, and a distance display 15. It the maintenance device is a video camera, a video screen 18 is also included in the inspection window 10.
Preferably, the real time location display 12, the observations spreadsheet 14, the distance display 16, and the video screen 18 are each shown in a separate window. Each of the separate windows are contained within the inspection window 10, which may be displayed on a computer monitor 110. The video screen 18 requires the use of some type of video capture device.
With reference to figure 2, use of the video camera 100 in a pipeline is given by way of example and not by way of limitation, other maintenance devices moving in other internal spaces could also be used. The video camera 100 is moved through a pipeline with a transporter, cable, or other suitable device. The distance that the video camera 100 travels is measured with a distance encoder 102. A video signal from the video camera 100 is output to an video overlay device 104. A distance signal from the distance encoder 102 is also output to the video overlay device L04. The video signal is continually overlaid with an ever changing distance measurement, from the distance signal. The overlaid video signal is output to a video recording device 106 and a computer 108. The video recording device 106 could be a video cassette recorder (VCR), a hard drive of a computer, a compact disc recorder, or any other suitable video recording device. The distance signal from the video overlay device 104 is also output to the computer 108.
Location display software receives the distance signal and provides a real time location display 12 of the video camera 100 movement within the pipeline. The observations spreadsheet 14 enables an operator to enter information concerning a particular location of interest. An observation; window 20 provides a list of categories and comments for entry into the observations spreadsheet 14. The video screen 18 displays the video feed of the video camera 100. The distance display 16 receives the distance signal and converts the signal lIlto a numeric display.
The real time location disp:Lay 12 includes an internal space representation 22, and a maintenance device icon 24. At least one line is preferably used to illustrate the internal space representation 22. However, other graphical representations of the internal space may also be used, besides the at least one line. A
starting manhole 28 and an ending manhole may be used to terminate the end of the at least one Line. However, the manholes would not be needed for representing a small section of sewer pipeline or for other nonsewer applications. The maintenance device icon 24 moves lengthwise relative to the at least one line. The at least one line in figure 1 is shown as being vertical, but the orientation of the at least one line could be horizontal or at any angle.
Optionally, a dimensional Scale 26 may be offset to a side of the internal space representation 22. The dimensional scale 26 can have divisions which are static, such that additional distance the video camera 100 travel, adds a division to the dimensional scale.
New divisions would be added to the dimensional scale 26 as the video camera 100 moves through a pipeline. With reference to figures 4a & 4b, the dimensional scale 26 may be scaled such that the length of the dimensional scale always fits into a set window length. The dimensions disclose~~ in figures 4a & 4b are given by way of example and not by way of limitation.
Figure 4a shows a maintenance device icon 24 at 11.8 feet and a first observation at 9.2 feet. Figure 4b shows a maintenance device icon 24 at 18.6 feet and the first observation at 9.2 feet.
In figure 4b, the length of the dimensional scale 26' has not changed, but the illustrated length of the dimensional scale has changed from 12.0 feet to 18.0 feet. The scaled dimensional scale 26' is continually updated as t:he video camera 100 moves through a pipeline. It is preferable to use an x - y plotting package capable of scale t.o produce the scaled dimensional scale 26'. An x - y plotting package from Iocomp of Orlando, Florida has been found to produce satisfactory results.
With reference to figures ~tc & 4d, a real time dimensional scale 27 is substituted for the dimensional scale 26. In figure 4c, the maintenance device icon 24 is currently at 5.0 feet. The distance of the real time dimensional scale 27 is 10.0 feet, because the maintenance device icon 24 is located in the center of the real time dimensional scale 27. With reference to figure 4d, the maintenance device icon 24 has traveled 72.0 feet. The lower dimension is 72.0 feet and the upper dimension is 82.0 feet. The maintenance device icon 24 is centered at 77.0 feet. Preferably, the distance of the real time dimensional scale 27 may be set to any appropriate distance.
The observations spreadsheet 14 disclosed in figure 1 is given by way of example and not by way of limitation. The observations spreadsheet 14 discloses t:he entry of information concerning a video camera. However, less information would be needed for other types of maintenance devir:es. Entry of information into the observations spreadsheet 14 wil7_ be represented on the real time location display 12. If the operator makes an observation at a distance through an internal space, the distance is shown on the observations spreadsheet 14 and preferably duplicated on the real time location display 12. Preferably, the distance of the observation is displayed with the number of the observation. With reference to figure 5, the first manhole circle 28 and second manhole circle 30 are assigned an identification by making an entry through the section window 32.
A second embodiment of a rea='._ time location display 13 is shown in figure 6. The real time location display 13 includes an internal space represent at: ion 22 , and a maintenance device icon 24 .
Instead using a distance measurement and observation number to represent an observation, an icon. is used. Preferably, there would be a plurality of icons whic_~h would each represent a particular observation. For example, there would be a root icon 35 to represent an ingrr~wrl root:, a joint icon 36 to represent water infiltration, or a crack icon 3f3 to represent a crack in a pipe.
A user could run t-he arrow of a mouse over the icon or click the icon to reveal the distance measurement, observation number, bubble help, multimedia information, or other observation information.
The observations spreadsheet: 14 includes the ability to enter several characteristics of the observation. The observations spreadsheet 14 preferably includes columns for distance, category, comment, video, stall, position, VCR, and notes. Distance of an observation is recorded in the distance column. Category of an observation is recorded in the category column. The category is a one word explanation of the observation. The category is preferably chosen from a list: of categories in the observations window 20. If the category of "service" is chosen, a service connection 34 is displ<~yed adja~~ent the dimension.
A comment concerning an observation is recorded in the comment column. The comment is an observation of a few words. A video or still frame of the observation is represented by a camcorder or video camera icon, respectively in the V and S columns. A video capture may be stored or a single picture of the observation.
Position of an observation is recorded in the position column. The position of the observation is preferably represented by the value of an hour hand on a clor_k. The time where the observation occurs on a VCR tape is shown in the VCR column. The invention should not be limited to only using a VCR tape for recording the video feed, but other video recordi ng hardware or met~nods may also be used.
Other comments concerning an observation nuay be recorded in the Notes column.
While particular embodiments of the invention have been shown and described, it will be c~bv,iou~> to t=hose skilled in the art that changes and modifications may be made without departing from the invention in its broader aspects, and therefore, the aim in the appended claims is to cover a1:1 such changes and modifications as fall within the true spirit and scope of the invention.
Claims (24)
1. A method for real time display of maintenance device location in an internal space including the steps of:
displaying a representation of an internal space; and displaying the position of a maintenance device in real time relative to said representation of an internal space.
displaying a representation of an internal space; and displaying the position of a maintenance device in real time relative to said representation of an internal space.
2. The method for real time display of maintenance device location in an internal space of claim 1, further including the step of:
providing a dimensional scale adjacent said representation of an internal space.
providing a dimensional scale adjacent said representation of an internal space.
3. The method for real time display of maintenance device location in an internal space of claim 2, further including the step of:
scaling said dimensional scale to fit a set size window as the maintenance device travels through the internal space.
scaling said dimensional scale to fit a set size window as the maintenance device travels through the internal space.
4. The method for real time display of maintenance device location in an internal space of claim 1, further including the step of:
providing a real time dimensional scale adjacent said representation of an internal space.
providing a real time dimensional scale adjacent said representation of an internal space.
5. The method for real time display of maintenance device location in an internal space of claim 1, further including the step of:
displaying a distance measurement of an observation adjacent said representation of an internal space.
displaying a distance measurement of an observation adjacent said representation of an internal space.
6. The method for real time display of maintenance device location in an internal space of claim 5, further including the step of:
displaying a number of the observation adjacent said distance measurement of the observation.
displaying a number of the observation adjacent said distance measurement of the observation.
7. The method for real time display of maintenance device location in an internal space of claim 1, further including the steps of:
displaying at least one icon adjacent said representation of an internal space; and revealing observation information from said at least one icon with a mouse.
displaying at least one icon adjacent said representation of an internal space; and revealing observation information from said at least one icon with a mouse.
8. The method for real time display of maintenance device location in an internal space of claim 1, further including the step of:
terminating each end of said representation of an internal space with a manhole circle having identification that corresponds to an actual manhole.
terminating each end of said representation of an internal space with a manhole circle having identification that corresponds to an actual manhole.
9. The method for real time display of maintenance device location in an internal space of claim 1, further including the step of:
entering information concerning an observation through an observation spreadsheet.
entering information concerning an observation through an observation spreadsheet.
10. A method for real time display of maintenance device location in an internal. space including the steps of:
displaying a representation of an internal space;
displaying the position of a maintenance device in real time relative to said representation of an internal space; and displaying at least one icon adjacent said representation of an internal space.
displaying a representation of an internal space;
displaying the position of a maintenance device in real time relative to said representation of an internal space; and displaying at least one icon adjacent said representation of an internal space.
11. The method for real time display of maintenance device location in an internal space of claim 10, further including the step of:
providing a dimensional scale adjacent said representation of an internal space.
providing a dimensional scale adjacent said representation of an internal space.
12. The method for real time display of maintenance device location in an internal space of claim 11, further including the step of:
scaling said dimensional scale to fit a set size window as the maintenance device travels through the internal space.
scaling said dimensional scale to fit a set size window as the maintenance device travels through the internal space.
13. The method for real time display of maintenance device location in an internal space of claim 10, further including the step of:
providing a real time dimensional scale adjacent said representation of an internal space.
providing a real time dimensional scale adjacent said representation of an internal space.
14. The method for real time display of maintenance device location in an internal space of claim 10, further including the step of:
revealing observation information from said at least one icon with a mouse.
revealing observation information from said at least one icon with a mouse.
15. The method for real time display of maintenance device location in an internal space of claim 10, further including the step of:
terminating each end of said representation of an internal space with a manhole circle having identification that corresponds to an actual manhole.
terminating each end of said representation of an internal space with a manhole circle having identification that corresponds to an actual manhole.
16. The method for real time display of maintenance device location in an internal space of claim 10, further including the step of:
entering information concerning an observation through an observation spreadsheet.
entering information concerning an observation through an observation spreadsheet.
17. A method for real time display of maintenance device location in an internal space including the steps of:
displaying a representation of an internal space;
displaying the position of a maintenance device in real time relative to said representation of an internal space;
displaying a real time video feed;
displaying an observation spreadsheet, said observation spreadsheet capable of receiving specific observation information at a particular distance measurement.
displaying a representation of an internal space;
displaying the position of a maintenance device in real time relative to said representation of an internal space;
displaying a real time video feed;
displaying an observation spreadsheet, said observation spreadsheet capable of receiving specific observation information at a particular distance measurement.
18. The method for real time display of maintenance device location in an internal space of claim 17, further including the step of:
providing a dimensional scale adjacent said representation of an internal space.
providing a dimensional scale adjacent said representation of an internal space.
19. The method for real time display of maintenance device location in an internal space of claim 18, further including the step of:
scaling said dimensional scale to fit a set size window as the maintenance device travels through the internal space.
scaling said dimensional scale to fit a set size window as the maintenance device travels through the internal space.
20. The method for real time display of maintenance device location in an internal space of claim 17, further including the step of:
providing a real time dimensional scale adjacent said representation of an internal space.
providing a real time dimensional scale adjacent said representation of an internal space.
21. The method for real time display of maintenance device location in an internal space of claim 17, further including the step of:
displaying a distance measurement of an observation adjacent said representation of an internal space.
displaying a distance measurement of an observation adjacent said representation of an internal space.
22. The method for real time display of maintenance device location in an internal space of claim 21, further including the step of:
displaying a number of the observation adjacent said distance measurement of the observation.
displaying a number of the observation adjacent said distance measurement of the observation.
23. The method for real time display of maintenance device location in an internal space of claim 17, further including the steps of:
displaying at least one icon adjacent said representation of an internal space; and revealing observation information from said at least one icon with a mouse.
displaying at least one icon adjacent said representation of an internal space; and revealing observation information from said at least one icon with a mouse.
24. The method for real time display of maintenance device location in an internal space of claim 17, further including the step of:
terminating each end of said representation of an internal space with a manhole circle having identification that corresponds to an actual manhole.
terminating each end of said representation of an internal space with a manhole circle having identification that corresponds to an actual manhole.
Applications Claiming Priority (2)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| US10/118,510 | 2002-04-05 | ||
| US10/118,510 US7010759B2 (en) | 2002-04-05 | 2002-04-05 | Method for real time display of maintenance device location in an internal space |
Publications (1)
| Publication Number | Publication Date |
|---|---|
| CA2418857A1 true CA2418857A1 (en) | 2003-10-05 |
Family
ID=28674450
Family Applications (1)
| Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA002418857A Abandoned CA2418857A1 (en) | 2002-04-05 | 2003-02-12 | Method for real time display of maintenance device location in an internal space |
Country Status (2)
| Country | Link |
|---|---|
| US (1) | US7010759B2 (en) |
| CA (1) | CA2418857A1 (en) |
Families Citing this family (5)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| US7836760B2 (en) * | 2007-10-23 | 2010-11-23 | Saylor David J | Method and device for the assessment of fluid collection networks |
| US7889980B2 (en) * | 2008-11-21 | 2011-02-15 | Emerson Electric Co. | Graphical representation of enclosed inspection area |
| US20110228076A1 (en) * | 2010-03-17 | 2011-09-22 | Da-Ming Liu | Multifunctional monitoring apparatus |
| US20130107035A1 (en) * | 2011-06-16 | 2013-05-02 | Ssv Inspections Inc. | Method and system for in-situ visual inspection of a valve |
| US10659726B1 (en) | 2019-05-03 | 2020-05-19 | VEMSI/HTV, Inc. | System for inspecting pipelines utilizing a wireless device |
Family Cites Families (14)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| JPH0738198B2 (en) * | 1985-11-14 | 1995-04-26 | 株式会社日立製作所 | Design support method and apparatus |
| US5339392A (en) * | 1989-07-27 | 1994-08-16 | Risberg Jeffrey S | Apparatus and method for creation of a user definable video displayed document showing changes in real time data |
| US5440492A (en) * | 1992-12-23 | 1995-08-08 | Kozah; Ghassan F. | Kinematically positioned data acquisition apparatus and method |
| CA2112271A1 (en) * | 1992-12-28 | 1994-06-29 | Kiichi Suyama | Intrapipe work robot apparatus and method of measuring position of intrapipe work robot |
| EP1219259B1 (en) * | 1993-04-22 | 2003-07-16 | Image Guided Technologies, Inc. | System for locating relative positions of objects |
| US5765561A (en) * | 1994-10-07 | 1998-06-16 | Medical Media Systems | Video-based surgical targeting system |
| US5742517A (en) * | 1995-08-29 | 1998-04-21 | Integrated Computer Utilities, Llc | Method for randomly accessing stored video and a field inspection system employing the same |
| JP2976879B2 (en) * | 1996-03-22 | 1999-11-10 | 日本電気株式会社 | Window display with depth |
| US5812962A (en) * | 1996-12-09 | 1998-09-22 | White Oak Borough Authority | Method and apparatus for organizing storing and retrieving information to administer a sewer system |
| AU6768198A (en) * | 1997-03-24 | 1998-10-20 | Bj Services Company | Inspection with global positioning and inertial navigation |
| US6529217B1 (en) * | 1999-06-15 | 2003-03-04 | Microsoft Corporation | System and method for graphically displaying a set of data fields |
| US6501391B1 (en) * | 1999-09-28 | 2002-12-31 | Robert Vincent Racunas, Jr. | Internet communication of parking lot occupancy |
| AU2001269717A1 (en) * | 2000-05-30 | 2001-12-11 | Oyo Corp. U.S.A. | Apparatus and method for detecting pipeline defects |
| US6651001B2 (en) * | 2002-03-18 | 2003-11-18 | Micrologics, Inc. | Method of and system and apparatus for integrating maintenance vehicle and service personnel tracking information with the remote monitoring of the location, status, utilization and condition of widely geographically dispersed fleets of vehicular construction equipment and the like to be maintained, and providing and displaying together both construction and maintenance vehicle information |
-
2002
- 2002-04-05 US US10/118,510 patent/US7010759B2/en not_active Expired - Fee Related
-
2003
- 2003-02-12 CA CA002418857A patent/CA2418857A1/en not_active Abandoned
Also Published As
| Publication number | Publication date |
|---|---|
| US20030189596A1 (en) | 2003-10-09 |
| US7010759B2 (en) | 2006-03-07 |
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Legal Events
| Date | Code | Title | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| EEER | Examination request | ||
| FZDE | Discontinued |