John C Lockett

US Patent:

44329318, Feb 21, 1984

Filed:

Oct 2, 1981

Appl. No.:

6/307975

Inventors:

John L. Lockett - Chatsworth CA

Assignee:

Electric Power Research Institute, Inc. - Palo Alto CA

International Classification:

G21C 1708

US Classification:

376248

Abstract:

A system for the remote visual inspection of an annulus defined between two vessels. A conduit member is disposed in the annulus having one end adjacent an upper portion of the vessel and the other end terminating adjacent an area to be inspected. The conduit member is provided with at least one aperture adjacent the area to be inspected and sized to receive a housing containing a camera and a light source. The housing and light source are introduced into the conduit member by a support means which includes at least a first hollow, flexible hose member having a first end connected to the housing and a second end terminating adjacent an upper portion of the vessels. The flexible hose member is made sufficiently rigid for introducing the housing through the conduit member by pressurization with a fluid. The system further includes a source of electrical power for the camera, a light, and display means for receiving signals from the camera as well as means for maintaining the camera at a desired temperature.