Self-Propelled Robotic Deployment Tool for Internal Installation of Fiber Optic Sensing Cables in Pipelines
This invention is a self-propelled robotic apparatus that travels through the inside of a pipe or other tubular structure to dispense and permanently secure a fiber optic (or other) sensing cable directly onto the pipe's interior wall. It offers a way to install distributed sensing cables inside existing or new pipelines without excavation or the need to install external liners, enabling continuous monitoring of pipeline integrity at lower cost and disruption than current methods.
Description
The apparatus includes a drive assembly that moves it along a tubular structure, and a cable assembly that dispenses a cable (such as a fiber optic sensing cable) onto or into the interior wall as it travels. A securing assembly, also mounted on the drive assembly, dispenses a securing material—adhesive tape, UV-curable resin, epoxy, urethane, or polyurea—that bonds the cable to the wall immediately after release. The drive assembly uses independently controlled wheel units on adjustable brackets, letting the tool fit a range of pipe diameters and move axially or helically. An optional cleaning assembly preps the surface ahead of the cable for better adhesion. An alternative configuration adds a drilling assembly that routes a V-shaped groove so the cable and securing material sit flush with or below the surface—protecting the cable from later cleaning or inspection passes. The cable and securing units are separate, removably coupled modules, so the tool's length and configuration can be adjusted to navigate bends.Applications
- Retrofitting existing oil, gas, or water pipelines with fiber optic sensing for leak detection and structural health monitoring- Installing distributed temperature, acoustic, strain, or vibration sensing cables in newly constructed pipeline segments
- Supporting pipeline integrity management programs required under regulatory frameworks for aging infrastructure
- Embedding sensor cables in tubular structures prior to application of internal liner or coating systems (e.g., CIPP, HDPE, spray-in-place-pipe)
- Enabling internal cable installation in other cylindrical or tubular industrial assets requiring continuous condition monitoring
Advantages
- Installs sensing cables directly on the interior of a tubular structure without excavation or removal of the pipe from service infrastructure- Self-propelled, adjustable drive assembly accommodates a range of pipe diameters using independently controllable wheel units
- Combines cable dispensing and securing-material dispensing (e.g., adhesive tape, resin, or epoxy) in a single moving apparatus, securing the cable immediately after placement
- Optional integrated cleaning assembly (abrading member and blower) prepares the pipe surface ahead of cable placement to improve adhesion
- Optional drilling/routing assembly allows the cable to be seated in a groove so it remains flush with or below the pipe surface, protecting it from subsequent cleaning, pigging, or inspection operations