Robotic internal gauge with contact at right angles to the oil pipeline

Abstract

Robotic, preferably cylindrical equipment having the capacity to move within a pipeline or other confined space in both directions and to carry out miscellaneous operations, pulling along an umbilical and carrying accessories, tools, or materials. It includes two identical modules joined by a rotary joint connecting the pistons of hydraulic or pneumatic propulsive piston systems. Each module includes a propulsive piston system which is responsible for the longitudinal movement of module, a positioning tower on which are mounted wheels having a non-reversing system and means for rotating positioning tower through one hundred and eighty degrees with reference to its vertical axis, reversing the direction of movement of equipment. Through the development or attachment of interfaces it is possible to bring tools, equipment, devices or materials to a remote location within a pipeline having bends within the limits of the standards for clearing obstructions, making inspections and other operations.

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.