Buried Asset Inspection

Author(s) Information

Sterling Hull, California Polytechnic State University, San Luis ObispoFollow
Jackson Davitt, California Polytechnic State University, San Luis ObispoFollow
Jack Gray, California Polytechnic State University, San Luis ObispoFollow
Devon Lau, California Polytechnic State University, San Luis ObispoFollow

College - Author 1

College of Engineering

Department - Author 1

Mechanical Engineering Department

Degree Name - Author 1

BS in Mechanical Engineering

College - Author 2

College of Engineering

Department - Author 2

Mechanical Engineering Department

Degree - Author 2

BS in Mechanical Engineering

College - Author 3

College of Engineering

Department - Author 3

Mechanical Engineering Department

Degree - Author 3

BS in Mechanical Engineering

College - Author 4

College of Engineering

Department - Author 4

Mechanical Engineering Department

Degree - Author 4

BS in Mechanical Engineering

Date

6-2024

Primary Advisor

Eileen Rossman, College of Engineering, Mechanical Engineering Department

Additional Advisors

William Hunter Spence of NAVFAC EXWC

Abstract/Summary

This senior project, sponsored by NAVFAV EXWC (U.S. Navy Facilities Engineering and Expeditionary Warfare Center,) involved developing a method for inspecting pipelines under normal operation. The team developed an additively manufactured ellipsoid shaped device that could move inside pipelines using the flow of water. The device also collects data using pressure and ultrasonic sensors and uses a scissor jack mechanism to stop when needed. The team successfully created a proof-of-concept prototype that demonstrates the objective is feasible with future product development. A successful product would allow aging water infrastructure to be inspected without causing large disruptions to the water supply system and without needing to dig up large areas of pipeline for inspection. The isolated testing the team performed on the stopping mechanism and suspension system were successful, and the device was able to navigate 12-inch turn radius pipe bends. The final prototype was not waterproof through the shell, but the moving parts of the stopping mechanism prevent water intrusion. The team found that the stopping mechanism was able to stop the device when exposed to the expected drag force of 31.2 pounds. The following report goes into detail about the design, verification, and future recommendations.

URL: https://digitalcommons.calpoly.edu/mesp/751