Abstract: For the problem of detection module of in-pipe robot system "PipeGuard" could not detect the pipe with different diameter during process of inspection, a method of innovative design for adaptive detection module based on TRIZ is proposed. A innovative design process model of pipe detection module which is based on TRIZ substance-field model and conflict resolution theory, is established. The proposed method achieves adaptive inspection of the pipes with different diameters. By defining TRIZ problem, the TRIZ substance-field model’s standard solution, and the separable principle and inventive principle of conflict resolution theory are used to solve the design problem. A separable drums and a membrane are adopt to detect he pipes with different diameters. When the pipe’s diameter increases, the elastic drum and membrane will be elongated by spring’s elasticity to fit the changed diameter of the pipe and then inspect the pipe. When the pipe’s diameter decreases, the elastic drum and membrane will be adaptively shrink by the pressure of the pipe wall. Finally, solution strategy is verified by the mechanical analysis mechanical analysis and mathematical model. And then, supply the factors and detect methods for detection accuracy and sensitivity.

Key words: adaptability, detection module, innovation design, in-pipe robot, theory of inventive problem solving (TRIZ)