VIPER

Versatile In-Pipe Examination Robot

VIPER CAD Model

Project Status: Completed

The Problem

Pipeline defects can lead to the shortened lifespan of the pipe, loss of valuable resources and even catastrophic failures. The defects can occur mainly due to the following reasons:

• Pipeline Corrosion
• Weld Failure
• Incorrect Operation
• Natural Disasters or External Forces.

Thus it becomes a necessity for regular pipe inspections and maintenance, but it also involves several risks and challenges such as:

• Working in Hazardous Environments.
• Reaching places inaccessible to humans.
• Obstructions and Clogging in pipes.
• Remote operation and monitoring.

Existing Solutions

The existing solutions to tackle the problem involves the use of Mobile Manipulators on a wheeled or a tracked platform. Other solutions are snake robots or legged robots. However, they have their own shortcomings such as:

• Some may require constant human intervention.
• The may be costly and difficult to control.
• May not have high reachability in tight turns or over difficult terrains.

Our Solution – VIPER

Various Features of VIPER

The following diagram shows the pipe traversal methodology: