DE102022111524A1 - Inspection device with locking function - Google Patents

Abstract

The invention relates to an inspection device (100) for shutting off a pipe (1000), in particular a sewage pipe, wherein the inspection device (100) has an inlet (1), an outlet (2) and a pipe section (3) in between with an opening (30). has, wherein the inspection device (100) has a reversibly detachable stuffing element (4), which can be inserted via the opening (30) in order to shut off the pipe section (3). The invention further relates to a method for shutting off a pipe (1000) with an inspection device (100), as well as a stuffing element (4) for an inspection device (100) for shutting off a pipe section (3).

Description

The invention relates to an inspection device with the features of independent patent claim 1, a method with the features of independent patent claim 8 and a stuffing element with the features of independent patent claim 12.

Numerous pipes, especially sewage pipes, for houses are known from the prior art. These may require repair, maintenance and/or complete replacement due to defects, wear and/or clogging. In addition, inspection devices such as valves or flaps are known which, in particular as part of the pipe, allow a pipe to be closed during normal operation.

The problem arises that such pipes, through which water, air and/or wastewater flow in a flow direction during normal operation, also release additional water, particularly after the water has been switched off or an evacuation, and are unpleasant due to the fact that they have usually been used for many years Can transport odors that can emerge from any opening in the pipe and form either waterlogging and/or water accumulation there, which endangers safety in general and occupational safety in particular, can cause damage, for example structural damage, and/or spreads unpleasant smells. This makes maintenance, repair and/or replacement of pipes or pipe sections inconvenient, costly and/or dangerous. This is particularly impractical when working on pipes that are located in used or inhabited properties.

Known inspection devices from the prior art have, among other things, the following disadvantages: high costs, complicated handling, complicated installation/removal, poor longevity, insufficient ability to repair or replace components, insufficient sealing, insufficient flexibility and/or not Existing or insufficient possibility of intervention in the pipe or pipe section.

It is therefore an object of the present invention to at least partially overcome at least one of the disadvantages described above. In particular, it is an object of the invention to provide an inspection device that enables intervention in a pipe or a pipe section and allows a flexible seal when work (by personnel) on the pipe is not taking place or is interrupted.

The above object is achieved by a revision device with the features of independent patent claim 1, by a method with the features of independent patent claim 8 and by a stuffing element with the features of independent patent claim 12. Further features and details of the invention result from the subclaims, the description and the drawings. Features and details that are described in connection with the inspection device according to the invention naturally also apply in connection with the method according to the invention and / or in connection with the stuffing element according to the invention and vice versa, so that reference is always made to each other with regard to the disclosure of the individual aspects of the invention will or can be.

According to the invention, an inspection device is provided for shutting off a pipe, in particular a sewage pipe, the inspection device having an inlet, an outlet and an intermediate pipe section with an opening, the inspection device having a reversibly detachable stuffing element which can be inserted via the opening in order to close the pipe section to lock up.

In the context of the present invention, the inspection device is essentially understood as a device which allows reversible intervention in a pipe or a pipe section (by working on the pipe). In the simplest case, this can be a closable opening (between the inlet and outlet) in a pipe. This makes it possible to carry out an intervention on or within the pipe, in particular to carry out work. As a rule, the work takes place (in the direction of flow from the pipe, see 1 ) after the outlet of the inspection device on the pipe, so that the blocked inspection device can safely seal or shut off the pipe in the area of the pipe section in between, i.e. directly after the inlet. This ensures that no water, air or wastewater flows when the inspection device is blocked by the stuffing element. One possibility may be to carry out maintenance work within the pipe, for example removing contamination that could otherwise lead to a blockage, or removing blockages as such. It is also conceivable that a diagnosis is carried out, for example by inserting a camera into a defective pipe section, preferably along the flow direction, but it can also be provided that a diagnosis is made possible against the flow direction. This offers the advantage that the revision device, the emergency maneuverability of an intervention at another point in a pipe system can be recognized. It is therefore conceivable that the inspection device is used in a suitable location, in particular in order not to expose or open large parts of a pipe system.

In the context of the invention, a shut-off or a blocking function can be understood as meaning the closing of a pipe or pipe section (by the inspection device), which preferably results in a seal. This can also mean that essentially the pipe section, and in particular pipes or pipe sections adjacent to it, are blocked off from the outside, preferably so that no fluids and/or gases can escape via an opening. A barrier can occur in particular along a flow direction and/or against a flow direction, whereby fluids and/or gases fundamentally cannot overcome the barrier. This can be done, for example, by a seal or the stuffing element. In other words, the barrier essentially cannot be overcome by a fluid, in particular water, and/or gas, in particular air. This can be advantageous because in this way neither liquid nor odors pass through the pipe or pipe section and therefore cannot leave it.

In the context of the present invention, a flow direction can be understood as the direction in which the pipe or pipe section, in particular wastewater, flows through during normal operation, in particular when the water is not switched off elsewhere or centrally. The use of the word flow direction does not necessarily mean that the pipe or pipe section is actually, in particular predominantly, flowing through at this point in time; in particular, this can mean that there are only water residues in the pipe or pipe section and a shut-off serves in particular to to close them off or seal them off. In the context of the present invention, it is particularly preferred if the pipe or the pipe section is arranged essentially vertically, in particular essentially perpendicular to the earth's surface, and thus the flow direction is from top to bottom. It can also be provided that the pipe or the pipe section is arranged essentially not horizontally. This can be advantageous because liquid can basically flow away, especially if this is not otherwise prevented.

In the context of the present invention, a pipe can in the simplest case represent a sewage pipe, preferably with a diameter of 35 to 125 mm, particularly preferably with a diameter of 40 to 110 mm. Such a pipe often has plastic, in particular PVC-U, i.e. reinforced polyvinyl chloride, or polypropylene as the material. The wastewater pipe can also be, in particular, a substantially vertical water pipe, for example a downpipe. This has the advantage that a stuffing element, in particular during insertion, is at least partially additionally pulled downwards by the weight. The pipe can in particular be a pipe which is at least partially housed within a wall of a building. Such pipes can be particularly difficult to access, but the inspection device can be used to make intervention easier and safe. It can be provided that the inspection device essentially represents a part of the pipe. This can be the case in particular if a pipe already has an opening into which a stuffing element can be inserted. It can also be provided that the inspection device is arranged at the lower or upper end of a pipe. It can also be provided that the inspection device is arranged between two pipe sections, in particular between an upper and lower pipe section. The inspection device can replace part of a pipe, for example by removing a section of the pipe corresponding to the length of the inspection device. This can be achieved by loosening an adapter, for example in the form of a flange connection, in particular with a seal, and removing part of the pipe, and then inserting the inspection device. This enables particularly simple assembly and commissioning of the inspection device and/or easy disassembly when the inspection device is no longer needed, for example after completion of work on the lower pipe section and/or upper pipe section. It can also be provided that essentially a part of a pipe is sawn out and then replaced by the inspection device. This makes it possible to essentially repeatedly use one and the same inspection device and/or an identical inspection device, which can therefore be constructed in advance in particular, in a targeted manner. In other words, this results in a universally applicable inspection device.

The inspection device preferably has the mentioned adapter in the area of the inlet and/or the outlet, for example in the form of a flange connection, in particular with a seal, for connection to the remaining pipe. This makes it easy to assemble or attach the pipe device to the pipe.

The inspection device has the inlet and the outlet as well as the pipe section in between. In other words, in the simplest case it can be a straight piece of pipe, in particular in the form of a hollow cylinder, which is preferably arranged essentially vertically, and in particular is sawn off at the upper and lower ends essentially perpendicular to the direction of flow. It can be envisaged to use commercially available pipes and pipe diameters in order to enable cost-effective production. The inspection device is preferably arranged between an upper pipe section and a lower pipe section, with the upper pipe section in particular lying essentially (in terms of height) above the pipe section, with in particular the lower pipe section lying essentially (in height) below the pipe section. Preferably, the upper tube section, the tube section, and/or the tube section all have a substantially equal diameter. This essentially results in a straight pipe which has the upper pipe section, the lower pipe section and the pipe section along the flow direction. It can be provided that flanging takes place between different pipe sections; in particular, the inspection device can thereby be arranged on a pipe or a pipe system, in particular as part of it, within a house. The inspection device can therefore be used to intervene on the one hand and shut off on the other hand. The pipe section can preferably have a substantially round cross-section, whereby it can be blocked particularly reliably by a stuffing element, in particular with a substantially round cross-section. The pipe section can have a diameter, in particular essentially perpendicular to the flow direction, between 1 to 50 cm, preferably between 2 to 30 cm, preferably between 5 and 17 cm, particularly preferably between 7 to 15 cm, ideally between 9 to 13 cm . A large diameter can be advantageous in order to connect the pipe section with an upper pipe section and/or lower pipe section with a correspondingly large diameter. A large diameter can be advantageous in order to connect the pipe section with a comparatively smaller lower pipe section and/or upper pipe section, since this makes it easier to engage over the pipe section, with the pipe section in this case preferably having a taper at the bottom and top, to be adjusted to the diameter of the upper and lower pipe sections. This can also be advantageous in order to essentially always use the same pipe section or always the same inspection device, in particular regardless of the diameter of the upper pipe section and/or the lower pipe section. A small diameter can be advantageous in order to achieve a shut-off particularly quickly and reliably by a stuffing element, especially since only a small diameter and/or a small volume of the stuffing element is necessary. This can also be advantageous if there is little space available to install the inspection device, for example when installing it in a wall or a supply shaft. The pipe section of the inspection device can have a length, in particular essentially along the flow direction, between 1 to 150 cm, preferably between 10 to 60 cm, preferably between 15 and 50 cm, particularly preferably between 20 to 40 cm, ideally between 25 to 35 cm , exhibit. A short length can be advantageous in order to enable easy handling, quick installation and/or quick removal. A short length can be advantageous if a pipe has to be sawn in half, because this means that a smaller area of a wall in particular has to be opened, behind which the pipe can be hidden. A greater length can be advantageous in order to enable a larger diameter of the opening, whereby the intervention can be made easier and/or expanded. A greater length can be advantageous in order to ensure that the stuffing position can be positioned essentially between the opening and the inlet and/or outlet, whereby a shutoff can preferably take place by the stuffing element within the pipe section.

It can be provided that the inlet is located essentially at the upper end of the inspection device and the outlet is located essentially at the lower end of the inspection device. A fluid and/or gas can flow through the inspection device essentially from top to bottom, in particular along a flow direction which is preferably oriented from the inlet towards the outlet. It can preferably be provided that the inspection device is essentially used when the water in the pipe system is switched off centrally.

It can also be provided that the inspection device has a flange connection essentially at the inlet and/or outlet, in particular in order to be connected to adjacent pipe sections. It can be provided that essentially at the outlet and/or inlet the pipe section, in particular over its entire circumference, has a constriction which can be inserted into a pipe section lying below and/or above. This can result in a narrowing in particular Stuffing element can be arranged. As a result, this can preferably be essentially locked and, in particular, further insertion of a completely filled stuffing element can be prevented. In other words, the narrowing can serve as an anchor point. This can be advantageous because it ensures that a stuffing element does not leave the pipe section, thereby creating a seal within the pipe section, which generally cannot spread unpleasant odors since it is or is cleaned regularly. It can also be provided that the pipe section essentially has a larger diameter at the outlet and/or inlet in order to be placed on and/or accommodate an underlying pipe or its pipe section, with a substantially straight connection in particular on the inside arises. In other words, the resulting tube is essentially completely smooth on the inside. This can be advantageous in order to prevent accumulation of dirt, in particular clogging can be prevented. Furthermore, this can be advantageous because a stuffing element can be pushed beyond the pipe section into adjacent pipes or their pipe section, whereby in particular a seal can be achieved at a desired location.

In the context of the invention, an opening can essentially be understood as a material recess or a hole, which is located in particular in the pipe section. The opening can essentially have the same diameter as the pipe section. The opening can preferably be arranged essentially centrally and/or essentially laterally with respect to the length of the pipe section, which can result in a stable inspection device and/or a blocking by a stuffing element below and/or above the opening, preferably within the Pipe section can be done. Through the opening, an intervention into the pipe section, and in particular also into adjacent pipes or their pipe section, is possible, whereby maintenance, cleaning and/or assembly can be made possible. The opening can preferably be arranged essentially perpendicular to the flow direction, which in particular enables simplified production and increases stability. The opening can be designed essentially round. This enables simple production and particularly comprehensive intervention, preferably using tools and/or limbs of a user, for example an arm. The opening can have a diameter of between 1 to 50 cm, preferably between 2 to 30 cm, preferably between 5 and 17 cm, particularly preferably between 7 to 15 cm, ideally between 9 to 13 cm. A large diameter can be advantageous in order to enable a particularly simple intervention, to enable a person to see it, and/or to be able to insert particularly large or voluminous tools. A large diameter can be advantageous in order to enable a particularly simple intervention in addition to a balloon or balloon tube, to enable a person to see it, and/or to be able to insert particularly large or voluminous tools. A small diameter can be advantageous in order to enable particularly quick and reliable handling. This can also be advantageous if there is little space available to install the inspection device. Furthermore, a small diameter can be advantageous because a particularly reliable and effective seal can be achieved. It may be particularly preferred if the opening, the inlet and/or the outlet, have essentially the same diameter, which in particular enables simple production. This can also be advantageous in order to use identical covers and/or closure devices, for example in order to close the inspection device on all sides when it is not in operation or is installed, for example in order to prevent leakage of residual moisture. For this purpose, essentially identical end covers, in particular with a sealing ring, can be pushed over the inlet, the outlet and/or the opening. Alternatively, an end cap via a screw cap may be provided at the inlet, outlet and/or opening for this purpose. Particularly preferably, an end cover has essentially the same thread as a cover according to the invention, in particular allowing an arrangement on a cover connection. The opening can have a distance from the inlet and/or outlet between 1 to 100 cm, preferably between 2 to 50 cm, preferably between 3 and 30 cm, particularly preferably between 6 to 20 cm, ideally between 8 to 15 cm. A small distance can be advantageous in order to minimize the overall length of the pipe section, making it easier to install and/or transport. A larger distance can be advantageous in order to create enough space for a barrier, in particular so that a barrier can essentially always take place within the pipe section in order to prevent fluids and/or gases, in particular unpleasant odors, from leaving the inspection device through the opening . It may be particularly preferred if the distance between the outlet and the opening is at least 8 cm, which ensures that a stuffing element, in particular a balloon, is provided with a sufficient length of the pipe section its enlargement to effect a shut-off, and in particular to prevent a shut-off being effected outside the pipe section.

Within the scope of the invention, the inspection device has the reversibly detachable stuffing element, which can be inserted through the opening in order to close off the pipe section. In the simplest case, this can be a substantially round or ball-shaped stuffing element, for example a rubber ball. The stuffing element can be inserted into the pipe section via the opening and, with appropriate dimensions, achieve a shut-off (by inflating or inflating), in particular by essentially blocking the pipe section. The stuffing element allows a simple, quick, reversibly releasable and/or reliable blocking of the pipe section. The stuffing element can be inflatable, which initially enables simple and quick positioning and then a reliable barrier. The stuffing element can also be self-inflating. A stuffing element can be provided in order to achieve a shut-off essentially in the vicinity of the inlet and/or outlet, in particular along the flow direction. It is particularly preferred if the stuffing element is inserted via the opening and then seals the pipe section downwards, especially in the vicinity of the outlet. This can be advantageous because the sewer system can be located below the pipe section, particularly downstream of the connection. This makes it possible to reliably prevent fluids and/or gases, in particular unpleasant odors, from penetrating the pipe section from the outlet and leaving it via the opening. In the context of the present invention, a fluid can be understood to mean, in particular, water. Furthermore, in the context of the present invention, a gas can be understood to mean, in particular, air.

Within the scope of the invention, it can be advantageous that the stuffing element can be positioned at least partially flexibly in the pipe section, wherein the stuffing element can be brought into a stuffing position, wherein in the stuffing position the stuffing element reversibly and detachably blocks the pipe section.

Flexible positioning can be understood to mean that the stuffing element can be moved at any time by applying force from the outside, in particular the force being preferably so great that it has to be applied by a user and not due to, in particular, smaller water accumulations, the stuffing element can constantly solve. Flexible positioning can be made possible in that, on the one hand, there is a barrier, but on the other hand, this is not so strong that further movement, for example by a user, would be excluded. This can also mean that the stuffing element initially has a smaller cross section or a smaller volume and can be positioned flexibly, and preferably then has a larger cross section, in particular essentially perpendicular to the flow direction, or an increased volume and thereby blocks the pipe section. This allows the stuffing element to be positioned particularly quickly initially and then to shut off the pipe section particularly efficiently and/or reliably.

In the context of the present invention, a stuffing position can be understood to mean the position within the pipe section, in particular possibly also in a lower and/or upper pipe section, in which the stuffing element creates a barrier. In other words, it can be the position in which the stuffing element shuts off. It can therefore be, for example, a circular section, in particular within a substantially vertical pipe section. It can be provided that the stuffing position is predefined, whereby a particularly reliable barrier can be achieved, preferably always deploying the same barrier. This can be achieved due to the geometric or structural properties of the pipe section, in particular through at least one local narrowing, whereby a particularly reliable positioning of the stuffing element is possible, and in particular a stop point is provided, which preferably also enables inexperienced users to do this Position the tamping element in the stock position. It is also conceivable that at least a first constriction, over which in particular the stuffing element can still be pushed, and a second constriction, which in particular has a significantly smaller diameter, whereby the second constriction serves as a stop point and preferably prevents the stuffing element from moving over this can be postponed. The first narrowing can signal to a user that the stuffing position is almost reached. The stuffing element can be at least partially fixed between the first and second constrictions. Alternatively or additionally, at least one position marking can be provided, for example by a substantially horizontal line on the pipe section. Particularly preferred is a pipe section which is designed to be at least partially transparent, which enables an insight into the pipe section from the outside, and in particular a position marking can be used to determine the position of the stuffing element and preferably to be able to correct it. Preferential The stuffing position can be arranged essentially below the opening along the flow direction, i.e. in particular towards the outlet, with the stuffing position being particularly preferably located above the outlet. This can ensure that a barrier essentially always occurs within the pipe section. This can be advantageous if, for example, the inspection device is used subsequently, because then a shut-off does not occur in an upper and/or lower pipe section, in particular one that has already been used. This can also lead to a reduction in unpleasant odors.

Preferably, the pipe section can be reversibly and detachably blocked by the stuffing element, particularly in the stuffing position. In other words, although a blockage occurs, this can be released again, preferably without tools, in particular by a user who can intervene in the pipe section via the opening in order to pull out the stuffing element. It can be provided that the stuffing element is introduced into the pipe section, and preferably then the pipe section is essentially blocked off in the stuffing position by the stuffing element. It can be provided, in particular subsequently, that the stuffing element is pulled out of the pipe section essentially against the direction of flow in order to remove the shut-off. It can be particularly preferred if an intervention into the pipe section and/or an underlying or lower pipe section is made possible, for example in order to carry out work, and preferably after completion of the work, the pipe section is blocked off by the stuffing element, in particular in order to prevent that odors and/or liquids escape, in particular from the opening of the pipe section. This can be particularly advantageous since repeated interventions and closures must be carried out alternately, for example during construction work and/or renovation work. This can be made possible in particular in a particularly quick, efficient and/or reliable manner within the scope of the present invention.

Within the scope of the invention, it is conceivable that the stuffing element has an inflatable balloon, a balloon tube and a pump, the balloon preferably being connected to the pump via the balloon tube, in particular the pump being able to supply the inflatable balloon with a medium to increase its volume increase and thereby close off the pipe section, remove the medium from the inflatable balloon in order to reduce its volume and thereby unblock the pipe section, or keep the volume of the inflatable balloon constant in order to maintain a barrier to the pipe section.

In the context of the present invention, an inflatable balloon can be understood to mean, for example, a hollow body, similar to a balloon. The balloon can preferably be reversibly enlarged and reduced in size. It can be provided that its volume is increased by supplying the medium, preferably in order to close off the pipe section by pressing the balloon against the pipe section from the inside and sealing it. It can be provided that its volume is reduced by removing the medium, preferably in order to unblock the tube section by releasing the balloon from the tube section at least partially, preferably completely. For this purpose, the balloon can have an elastic material, preferably a plastic, in particular rubber. This allows the balloon to be sufficiently robust so that it does not tear on sharp edges within the tube or on dirt. In addition, sufficient elasticity can be provided to ensure a barrier even in the event of an unevenness, for example a particle such as a piece of cotton wool adhering to the inside of the pipe section, in particular by the balloon extending over a longer section and/or around the unevenness hugs and seals around.

The balloon can have a, preferably flexible, balloon tube which is connected to a pump. In the simplest case, the balloon tube can be a commercially available plastic tube, for example a thin garden hose, which can have the advantage of general availability and low costs. The balloon tube preferably comprises a flexible plastic, which is preferably essentially bendable through at least 90°, as is preferably the case when the stuffing element is arranged in the stuffing position while the balloon tube protrudes at least partially from the opening. The balloon tube preferably comprises a rigidity which is in particular sufficient to insert or pull out the balloon tube into the tube section without tools in order to move the balloon within the tube section, in particular when the balloon tube is passed through a lid feedthrough in the lid. The balloon tube can have a plastic, in particular PVC, in order to provide sufficient hardness and/or to prevent the formation of a kink. The balloon tube can have at least one plasticizer, preferably a phthalate, in particular to increase flexibility. Preferably, the balloon tube can have a metal core, preferably a substantially cylindrical network, in particular Stainless steel, to provide a supporting structure which is also elastic. This allows the balloon tube to be particularly durable and low-wear. The balloon tube can have a diameter between 0.01 to 20 cm, preferably between 0.1 to 10 cm, preferably between 0.2 to 5 cm, particularly preferably between 0.3 to 1 cm, ideally between 0.4 to 0. 7 cm. A large diameter can be advantageous in order to supply or remove a particularly large amount of a medium from the balloon. This means the balloon can be quickly enlarged or reduced in size. A small diameter can be advantageous in order to provide a space-saving overall size, greater flexibility, to reduce the volume of the medium required for use and/or to supply or withdraw a particularly easily controllable amount of a medium from the balloon, in particular the balloon slowly enlarging or is reduced and thereby tearing can essentially be prevented or the probability is reduced. The balloon tube can have a length between 1 to 500 cm, preferably between 5 to 250 cm, preferably between 10 to 150 cm, particularly preferably between 20 to 100 cm, ideally between 30 to 70 cm. A large length can be advantageous in order to be able to position the balloon deeper (particularly further away from the opening). A large length can be advantageous in order to provide enough reserves if more than one person is operating the stuffing element. A smaller length may be advantageous to provide a space-saving overall size and/or to reduce the volume of media required for use.

It can be provided that the balloon tube has at least one marking which enables the balloon to be positioned essentially close to or at the stuffing position. For example, a scale can be printed on the balloon tube, which allows conclusions to be drawn as to how far the balloon and/or the balloon tube have been pushed into the tube section. It can be particularly preferred if the scale is arranged in a substantially cohesive manner on the balloon tube, in particular if it can be essentially integrated into the material, whereby it can always be visible even when worn. The known size of the balloon and/or balloon tube, in particular when they are essentially completely filled with a medium, can therefore be used to ensure that the stuffing element is brought into the stuffing position or is arranged in this position. It can be provided that at least one position marking is additionally arranged on the pipe section and/or the pipe section has at least one constriction. In this way, the accuracy of the positioning of the stuffing element in the stuffing position can be additionally increased.

It can be provided that the stuffing element has at least one pump. The pump can be connected to the balloon via the balloon tube. In other words, they form a coherent system. Preferably the pump is at least partially filled with a medium. By operating the pump, the medium can be at least partially supplied to the balloon (or pumped up, enlarged) or withdrawn (or pumped out, reduced in size) via the balloon tube. The volume of the balloon can be essentially increased during delivery. The pipe section is preferably blocked off, particularly if the volume of the balloon or the cross section is sufficient to block off the pipe section on all sides. When the medium is withdrawn, the volume of the balloon can be essentially reduced, whereby in particular the pipe section is released or unblocked. In the simplest case, the pump can be a pump that can be operated without tools, in particular a hand pump.

It can be provided that the stuffing element, the balloon tube and/or the pump are essentially connected, in particular they can be connected in a materially bonded manner, which can result in a particularly robust and long-lasting construction. It can be provided that these in particular comprise the same material. It can also be provided that the balloon tube is interrupted by at least one adapter, preferably reversibly detachable, whereby the resulting subsections can preferably be handled on both sides of the cover bushing. This makes them easier to replace. It can also be provided that an adapter is arranged between the balloon and the balloon tube, whereby the balloon is exchangeable and can be adapted in particular to specific circumstances, for example different tube types or diameters. With a smaller/larger diameter, the pipe section, a balloon, can be used which has a smaller/larger maximum volume or maximum cross section in order to achieve a reliable shut-off. It can also be provided that a can be arranged between the balloon tube and the pump, whereby the pump and/or the balloon tube can be exchanged in a modular manner. For example, depending on availability, an automatic or manually operated pump can be used, which can reduce costs and protect the environment. It can be provided that the adapter is essentially close to the cover bushing, preferably outside half of the lid bushing with the lid closed, especially when the stuffing element is arranged in the stuffing position. This makes it possible for the pump to be removed after the balloon has been inflated, for example by compressing the balloon tube to prevent the medium from escaping from the balloon, and then shutting off or sealing the adapter by a closure element . As a result, it is preferably not necessary for the pump to be permanently connected to the balloon or the balloon tube.

It can be provided within the scope of the invention that the medium has a liquid, in particular water (in particular with antifreeze), a gas, in particular air or a mixture comprising a liquid and a gas.

A liquid can be advantageous because it essentially cannot be compressed, which can result in a particularly reliable shut-off. A gas can be advantageous because it has a particularly low weight. Water is preferably used in the context of the invention. This can provide the advantage of being available essentially everywhere. Preferably, a liquid is combined with a freezing agent in order to essentially prevent the medium from freezing. This also makes it possible to use it at low temperatures, especially outdoors and/or in winter. It can be provided that the medium has a fragrance which, in particular, spreads pleasant smells. It is conceivable that the fragrance combines synergistically with odors that usually occur during pipe renovation. This means that additional odor neutralization or a reduction in unpleasant odors can be achieved. It may be particularly preferred if the pump can be operated with both a liquid and a gas, in other words the medium that is available can be used, for example water can be used if a water connection is available nearby , and if this is not the case, air in particular can be used. Air offers the advantage that this essential material is available everywhere.

According to the invention, it is conceivable that the pump comprises an automatic or a manual pump, wherein the pump has a pump drain valve in order to drain the medium from the balloon via the pump.

An automatic pump can offer the advantage that a precise dosage of the medium that is fed to the balloon can be achieved. Furthermore, this can be advantageous because the user can carry out other work in parallel while increasing the size of the balloon and/or reducing the size of the balloon. An automatic pump can also provide the advantage of more rapid balloon expansion or contraction. An automatic pump can also apply excess pressure to the balloon (particularly above atmosphere), which can lead to a particularly reliable and stable shutoff of the pipe section. This can be advantageous to block particularly strong odors and/or large amounts of liquid. The automatic pump can preferably be operated electrically.

It can also be provided that the pump comprises a manual pump, whereby it can be operated essentially without tools and/or an external energy supply. This may be a treat, in other words an oval-shaped conventional hand-operated pump.

The pump preferably has a pump drain valve through which the medium can be at least partially drained. The pump drain valve can enable an exchange with the environment, for example through air. This makes it possible for the medium to be drained at least partially quickly, particularly when the stuffing element is initially in the stuffing position, and a shut-off is to be lifted as quickly as possible, in particular enabling rapid removal of the stuffing element from the pipe section. This can mean faster and time-saving use compared to the case where the medium is removed via the pump.

It is also conceivable that the inspection device has a lid which can be reversibly detachably arranged at the opening via a lid connection, the lid preferably having at least one closable lid passage, in particular to enable the stuffing element to be inserted, held and / or pulled out, whereby When the lid feedthrough is closed, the lid closes the opening.

It can be provided that the lid closes the openings. As a result, there is essentially a barrier at this point. It can be provided that the lid can be closed and/or released by the user. A cover connection can represent a dust connection, with a thread being provided in particular on the pipe section or on the outward-facing side of the opening, and the cover having a correspondingly complementary thread, which so that it can be reversibly and detachably engaged. This can result in a particularly stable barrier. It can be provided that an additional seal is provided in between in order to achieve a particularly reliable shut-off. It is also conceivable that the lid connection has a pivoting means, for example a hinge, and thus the lid can be pivoted essentially with respect to the opening, whereby a reversibly releasable barrier can be achieved. In other words, the lid can be a type of flap. It is also conceivable that the cover is essentially plugged onto the opening in a reversibly detachable manner. The cover connection can therefore essentially have a plug-in means, which preferably provides guidance for the cover when it is plugged on or removed. This means that the lid can be attached or removed particularly quickly.

It can be provided that the cover has at least one cover feedthrough. In the simplest case, the cover feedthrough can be a, preferably round, hole, which can be arranged in particular in alignment with the opening. This makes it possible to open or close the lid itself without essentially having to move a balloon tube arranged in the lid bushing. The cover feedthrough can preferably be reversibly closable, in particular via a cover feedthrough closure, which preferably results in a blockage at this point, particularly if the cover itself is connected to the opening via the cover connection. It is conceivable that the stuffing element can be inserted, held and/or pulled out through the cover bushing. This can mean that the balloon and/or at least partially the balloon tube, particularly if there is essentially no medium in the balloon, is inserted through the cover feedthrough, held and/or pulled out. If the lid is in an open position or at least partially open position, this can provide sufficient space to position the stuffing element or the balloon. If the balloon is guided through the lid bushing, provision can be made to at least partially fill the balloon with the medium and then position the balloon in the stuffing position. It can also be provided to first position the balloon essentially in the stuffing position and then to fill it at least partially, particularly preferably completely, with the medium in order to achieve a shut-off. The medium can preferably be at least partially supplied or withdrawn from the balloon via the balloon tube while the balloon tube is guided through the cover bushing. Once the balloon is positioned in the stuffing position, the lid can be closed. The balloon can then be at least partially or completely filled, which results in a pipe section being blocked at the level of the stuffing position. When the lid is closed, it can be provided that the lid connection is essentially only provided for holding the stuffing element or the balloon tube. Preferably, the lid bushing has a diameter that is only slightly larger than the balloon tube, which means that a barrier can essentially be achieved; in particular, when the lid is closed, no fluid and/or gas can enter or exit through the lid bushing as long as the balloon tube is located therein . It can be provided that the balloon and/or the balloon tube can be essentially pulled out of the tube section, in particular through the cover bushing. This may be possible in particular if the balloon is at least partially, preferably completely, deflated. This allows the balloon, balloon tube and/or pump to be changed. It can also be provided, in particular when the lid is closed, to position the balloon, preferably partially or completely filled, essentially by pulling on the balloon tube, whereby it is at least partially pulled out of the lid feedthrough, and the balloon is in Moved in the direction of the opening, which means that readjustment is possible, in particular only in the direction of the opening. It is also conceivable that the balloon tube is essentially inserted, thereby positioning the balloon, in particular due to the connection between the balloon and the balloon tube. It can also be provided that the tube section is essentially only blocked off via the lid, in particular if no balloon is positioned in the tube section, with preferably no fluid and/or gas being able to escape through the lid.

Within the scope of the invention, it is optionally possible for a seal, in particular a rubber seal, and a hinge to be included, the seal being connected via the hinge between an external sealing position in which the opening is sealed by the seal and an internal sealing position in which the Seal seals the pipe section at the level of the hinge, is pivotable, in particular in the internal sealing position, the seal divides the pipe section into an upper pipe section and a lower pipe section located downstream in the flow direction, the seal preferably having a fixing agent on the side facing outwards in the external sealing position , in particular the fixing means in the external sealing position releasable the seal on the outside of the pipe section fixed and thereby seals the pipe section to the outside, in particular the fixing means in the internal sealing position reversibly releasably fixes the seal on the inside of the pipe section essentially opposite the hinge and thereby seals the pipe section in the flow direction and / or vice versa, the fixing means preferably being fixable without tools and can be detached, for example by a tilt lock. It can be provided that the seal and the hinge are fastened to one another, in particular are reversibly releasably fastened, which preferably enables the seal to be replaced. It can be provided that the seal and the hinge are designed to be cohesive, which results in a particularly stable and long-lasting connection. It can be provided that the hinge has a click connection, via which the seal can essentially be clicked into the hinge in a reversibly detachable manner. This can provide a tight connection and the possibility of replacing the seal. It can be provided that the hinge and/or the external counter-fixing means are arranged on the pipe section, preferably outside or on the outward-facing side of the pipe section, whereby the seal, the hinge and/or the, in particular in the external sealing position external counter-fixing means, lie essentially outside the opening. In other words, protrusion into the pipe section can be prevented, meaning that no dirt particles, such as hair or the like, can get stuck on it. In other words, the pipe section is essentially smooth in the direction of flow. It can be provided that the seal, in particular in the external sealing position, on the side facing into the pipe section, is adapted to the shape of the pipe, in particular to provide essentially no or only minimal resistance to a flow along the flow direction. This makes it possible, in particular, to leave the inspection device installed and preferably to use it for repeated intervention in the pipe section, whereby the normal flow in the direction of flow is preferably not hindered.

The upper pipe section can include the part of the pipe section that lies essentially above the seal and/or a pipe or pipe section located above. The lower pipe section can include the part of the pipe section which lies essentially below the seal and/or a pipe or pipe section located underneath. Preferably the seal comprises the same materials as the pipe section. This allows particularly efficient and cost-effective production. The seal can have a substantially round cross section in order to preferably seal off the pipe section in an internal sealing position and/or external sealing position. It can be provided that the seal has a substantially centrally located rigid section and a sealing section arranged over the entire circumference, which is located at the outermost edge, particularly in a round design, in order to seal against the pipe section. This offers the advantage of a stable design on the one hand and an advantageous barrier on the other. In an internal sealing position, the pipe section can be shut off, in particular along the direction of flow, with the upper pipe section in particular being shut off, but engagement in the lower pipe section via the opening being possible, in particular when the lid is open. Once an intervention has ended, at least temporarily, the lower pipe section can be blocked off using a stuffing element described above. A change between the internal sealing position and the external sealing position, preferably without tools, is preferably possible if the lid is at least partially, preferably completely open, with the user preferably being able to decide when the seal is to be opened or closed. It can also be provided that the seal is reversibly releasably connected to the hinge from the outside, in particular without tools, and can therefore be released in order to preferably enable an engagement essentially in the direction of flow, whereby in particular an engagement in an upper pipe section or a pipe arranged above is made possible. The hinge is preferably located at the upper end of the opening, in particular opposite an external counter-fixing means, which can be brought into engagement with the fixing means, in particular without tools, in order to preferably fix the seal in the outer seal. This makes it possible to prevent a blockage from being lifted, for example due to pressure fluctuations within the pipe section. In the internal sealing position, the seal can preferably be fixed via the fixing means, which can in particular be brought into engagement with an internal counter-fixing means, whereby the pipe section is blocked off. This makes it possible to prevent the seal being blocked by the seal at this point, for example due to a fluid, a gas and/or pressure fluctuations within the pipe section, particularly in the direction of flow. The arrangement of the fixing means on the outward-facing side of the seal, particularly in the external sealing position, allows the fixing means to be actuated at any time, preferably without tools.

It can be provided that the pipe section can have a sliding section, the sliding section preferably having a lubricant has, wherein the sliding section enables improved sliding of a balloon in the tube section, whereby the balloon can preferably be positioned more quickly and more precisely, and in particular a readjustment of the stuffing position is possible, in particular when the balloon is already essentially completely filled with the medium. The sliding section can only be provided in the vicinity of the opening in the direction of flow downwards, in particular between 0 to 50 cm, preferably between 0 to 30 cm, preferably between 0 and 20 cm, particularly preferably between 0 to 15 cm, ideally between 0 to 10 cm, especially measured from the lowest edge of the opening. This can be advantageous in order to be able to move the balloon, especially when it is partially or completely filled with the medium, up to the stuffing position, which is located in particular at the lower end of the sliding section, with the friction being increased in particular at the end of the sliding section and thus the balloon can be easily positioned there, preferably due to the increase in friction when reaching the end of the sliding section, the balloon is essentially fixed there, in particular the user can see that the balloon is at this point, in particular the stuffing position provided there , should be arranged. This can be advantageous in order to always provide the tamping position in the same place for different uses and/or users, which means that even inexperienced users can always achieve the same tamping position. In the context of the present invention, a lubricant can in the simplest case be a soap or soapy water. This can preferably be prepared easily and anywhere. It can also be provided that a lubricant essentially represents a particularly smooth surface structure. This can be done, for example, by polishing or chemical treatment. It can further be provided that the pipe section has a friction section, which preferably begins in the flow direction below the sliding section, the friction section preferably having an increased coefficient of friction, in particular in comparison to the sliding section, preferably in comparison to a conventional pipe. As a result, similar to what was described above, the balloon can be easily positioned in a specific stuffing position due to the increased friction. This means that a user, particularly an inexperienced one, can implement a predefined or always identical tamping position. The friction section can be spaced in particular between 5 to 60 cm, preferably between 10 to 30 cm, preferably between 10 and 20 cm, particularly preferably between 12 to 17 cm, ideally between 13 to 16 cm, from the opening, in particular measured from the lowest one edge of the opening. The friction section can be a substantially vertical friction section with a width along the flow direction between 0 to 50 cm, preferably between 0.1 to 30 cm, preferably between 1 and 15 cm, particularly preferably between 1.5 to 10 cm, ideally between 2 up to 5 cm. A narrower friction section can be easier and more cost-effective to manufacture. A wider friction section can offer increased reliability because, due to the width, the balloon cannot simply be pushed in beyond the friction section unnoticed, especially with momentum or a lot of force. It may be particularly preferred to provide a sliding section which is arranged in the flow direction below a friction section, whereby both of the above-mentioned advantages can be realized in combination, with preferably an even simpler and / or more reliable positioning of the stuffing element being able to be achieved, in particular due to an enlarged one Difference between the friction coefficients of the sliding portion and the rubbing portion.

• Absperren des Rohrabschnitts, insbesondere in Strömungsrichtung und/oder umgekehrt, durch eine Dichtung, insbesondere durch Verschwenken der Dichtung über ein Scharnier von einer Außendichtstellung in eine Innendichtstellung, in welcher die Dichtung den Rohrabschnitt auf Höhe des Scharniers abdichtet, wodurch bevorzugt ein Eingriff über die Öffnung in den Rohrabschnitt in einen unteren Rohrabschnitt stromabwärts der Dichtung ermöglicht wird, und/oder
• zumindest teilweises Einführen eines Stopfelements, um den Rohrabschnitt abzusperren, wodurch ein Eingriff in den Rohrabschnitt zwischen der Dichtung und dem Stopfelement ermöglicht wird.

The above object is further achieved by a method according to the invention for shutting off a pipe with an inspection device, in particular according to one of the preceding claims 1 to 7, with an inlet, an outlet, an intermediate pipe section and an opening, comprising at least one of the following steps:

• Shutting off the pipe section, in particular in the direction of flow and/or vice versa, by a seal, in particular by pivoting the seal via a hinge from an external sealing position to an internal sealing position, in which the seal seals the pipe section at the level of the hinge, thereby preferably engaging via the opening into the pipe section into a lower pipe section downstream of the seal, and/or
• at least partially inserting a stuffing element to close off the pipe section, thereby enabling engagement in the pipe section between the seal and the stuffing element.

It can be provided that, in particular at the beginning, a cover arranged at the opening is opened, preferably unscrewed, in order to thereby enable engagement in the pipe section. The first step can then be carried out first, in particular in order to bring the seal from an external sealing position into an internal sealing position, preferably by detaching the fixing means from the external counter-fixing means, pivoting the cover essentially into the pipe section, and then taking the fixing means with it the internal counter-fixing means is brought into engagement in order to preferably seal the seal device, in particular essentially perpendicular to the direction of flow, to be fixed reversibly and releasably. It can particularly preferably be provided that, at least initially, only the first step is carried out, in particular a barrier is achieved essentially at the level of the hinge, through the seal. In this way, it is particularly preferable to intervene in the lower pipe section, whereby in particular maintenance work, assembly, cleaning and the like are possible in the lower pipe section and/or a pipe or pipe section located underneath. It can be provided here that the pipe section, in particular also an adjacent upper pipe section and a lower pipe section, have already been essentially evacuated, in other words the water has been switched off, in particular centrally. Alternatively or additionally, it is possible to introduce a stuffing element at least partially, preferably completely, via the opening in order to close off the pipe section, in particular substantially below the opening in the direction of flow. If both steps are carried out, preferably one after the other, with in particular first a shut-off by the seal and then a shut-off by the stuffing element, preferably only an intervention into the pipe section between the seal and the stuffing element is possible, whereby in particular no fluid and/or Gas can escape from the upper and / or lower pipe section through the opening, in particular even if the opening itself is not closed, for example by a lid. In other words, this can be advantageous in order to essentially interrupt intervention in the pipe section, for example when work is completed overnight. The method can therefore be particularly suitable for carrying out renovations of existing pipes, especially in an inhabited apartment or house. A, in particular subsequent, closure by a lid, in particular with a closed lid feedthrough, can lead to an additional barrier, which particularly reliably prevents fluid and/or gas from escaping from the opening. It can be provided to position the stuffing element in the stuffing position in order to preferably achieve a shut-off in the pipe section.

Method, in particular method according to claim 8, comprising at least one of the following steps. Opening a cover passage of a cover, in particular after the pipe section has been closed off by the seal, with the cover in particular closing the opening of the inspection device. The at least partial insertion can include inserting the stuffing element through the cover bushing, the stuffing element having an inflatable balloon, which is in particular completely inserted into the tube section, the stuffing element having a balloon tube connected to the balloon, which is at least partially inserted into the tube section becomes. In other words, it can be provided that the balloon and at least partially the balloon tube are pressed through the cover bushing. The balloon and the balloon tube are preferably medium-free, in particular not filled with a medium. This allows for simplified insertion. It can also be provided that the balloon and/or the balloon tube are at least partially filled with a medium, but in particular only to the extent that passage through the cover bushing is still possible. This can offer the advantage that subsequent inflation of the balloon is quicker. The lid can either be closed or at least partially opened during implementation. When this is opened, the balloon and/or at least part of the balloon tube can be inserted more quickly, especially since access is possible on both sides of the lid. When the lid is closed, passage of the balloon tube can be made easier because the lid is rigidly arranged at the opening and thus there is firm resistance to insertion of the balloon tube. It is also conceivable that the cover is essentially completely removed from the opening or the pipe section, which makes easier handling possible. It can also be provided that the lid, for example, is pivoted outwards only at the opening, which in particular makes it possible to close and open the lid in a simplified manner, and preferably still enables rapid insertion, in particular since access from both sides of the lid is possible becomes. It is also conceivable that the lid, if it is removable, is attached pre-assembled, in other words the balloon and the balloon tube are already guided through the lid bushing and only the lid is arranged at the opening. This can be advantageous in order to achieve easier and faster assembly. It can be provided that the balloon is essentially brought into the stuffing position before a medium is supplied. This can be advantageous because it enables particularly quick positioning. It can also be provided that the balloon is at least partially filled with a medium in order to make it easier to handle, which can in particular simplify positioning in the stuffing position.

Supplying a medium into the inflatable balloon of the stuffing element, by actuating a pump connected to the balloon tube, which supplies the medium to the balloon via the balloon tube, the balloon being at least partially, preferably completely filled with the medium. Positioning the balloon in a stuffing position, which is preferably in the tube section in the flow direction below the opening, in particular vertically below the opening, whereby the tube section is sealed.

The medium can preferably be fed into the balloon via the balloon tube, in particular by activating the pump. The balloon is at least partially, preferably completely, filled with the medium, whereby in particular its volume is increased, preferably until the balloon, in particular in the stuffing position, has reached a volume which essentially blocks the pipe section at the level of the stuffing position. It can also be provided that the balloon is brought into the stuffing position when it is already completely filled, whereby in particular an improved shut-off can be achieved, in particular because the seal between the balloon and the pipe section can thereby be improved. In other words, this can be equivalent to a rubber stopper being stopped deeper into a drain. It can be particularly preferred if the balloon is essentially brought into the stuffing position when it is still essentially medium-free (or empty) or is only at least partially filled with the medium. This can enable simplified positioning into the stuffing position. The stuffing position can preferably lie in the pipe section, in particular in the flow direction, below the opening, in particular vertically below the opening, whereby the pipe section is blocked off, preferably to the extent that the blocking takes place at least partially within the pipe section, which can be particularly reliably prevented fluids and/or gases from adjacent pipe sections enter the pipe section, in particular from this direction, and can leave it via the opening. It may be particularly preferred if the blocking element is shut off via a lateral surface which is essentially oriented along the direction of flow and in particular has a length between 0 and 50 cm, preferably between 0.1 and 30 cm, preferably between 0.5 to 20 cm, particularly preferably between 1 to 15 cm, ideally between 2 to 10 cm. A smaller length can be advantageous in order to build up particularly high pressure and thereby achieve a particularly reliable shut-off. A greater length can be advantageous in order to achieve a barrier over a larger area, in particular a longer lateral surface, with the particular advantage that the stuffing element can also spread at least partially in refreshment areas, such as in particular at the transition between the pipe section and a lower pipe section, or also an upper pipe section, can be present, which results in a particularly reliable shut-off. It can be provided that the shape relationship in terms of length of the lateral surface, which is essentially responsible for the seal, is essentially defined by the shape of the stuffing element, in particular the balloon. For example, a more elongated balloon, similar to an elongated balloon that is inflated, can provide a longer lateral surface. For example, a rather round balloon, in particular essentially a sphere, can provide a comparatively shorter lateral surface. It can also be provided that the balloon has a material thinning, in particular annular, essentially perpendicular to the flow direction, whereby a formation can be created at this point which can achieve a particularly reliable shut-off of the pipe section. It can be provided that after completion of the steps described, the pipe section is blocked by the seal at the level of the hinge, by the stuffing element substantially at the level of the stuffing position, and/or by the cover that closes the opening. It can also be provided that the balloon tube essentially hangs out of the lid, in particular from the lid bushing. It may therefore be possible to supply or remove a medium from the balloon via the pump, which in particular enables readjustment. It is also conceivable that, as described above, the pump is separated from the balloon tube, in particular via the adapter, whereby in particular the pump can be used for other purposes. This can also be advantageous in order to essentially exclude any further modification of the balloon, in particular in order to prevent the closure by the stuffing element from being accidentally or intentionally removed or worsened. When the pump is removed, the balloon tube can be closed, essentially at the level of the adapter, in particular to prevent the medium from escaping, in particular essentially preventing the blocking element from being lifted.

Furthermore, the method, in particular a method according to one of claims 8 or 9, can have at least one of the following steps. Unlocking the pipe section by removing the stuffing element, and/or unlocking the pipe section through the seal, in particular by pivoting the seal via the hinge from the internal sealing position at least partially, preferably completely, into an external sealing position, in which the seal seals the pipe section from the outside.

It can be provided that the above-mentioned steps are preferably carried out essentially in the reverse order. This can offer the advantage of making workflows easier for the user to perform and therefore cost savings, especially as speed increases. This can also be advantageous in order to prevent damage to the inspection device. It can be provided that before the pipe section is unlocked by removing the stuffing element and/or by unlocking through the seal, the cover is at least partially, preferably completely, removed, which in particular enables easier intervention. The cover can preferably be unscrewed or pivoted outwards. It can be particularly preferred if the pipe section is first unlocked by removing the stuffing element, and then the pipe section is unlocked by the seal. This can be particularly advantageous since intervention can be simplified when the seal is in the internal sealing position. It can be provided that the medium is at least partially, preferably completely, removed from the balloon, in particular by opening a pump drain valve, which can be arranged on the pump. This means the medium can be drained quickly and easily. Alternatively or additionally, it can also be provided that the balloon itself, preferably on the upward-facing side, in particular in the stuffing position, has a balloon valve through which the medium can be drained at least partially, preferably completely. In the simplest case, this can be achieved by engaging the tube section, in particular by a hand, with the balloon in particular being at least partially compressed. This can be advantageous because the medium can be drained without tools via the outlet, in particular into a lower pipe located underneath, in particular into the sewage system. For this purpose, the lid can preferably be opened at least partially, preferably completely.

Method according to claim 10, wherein unlocking the tube section by removing the stuffing element comprises unlocking the tube section by at least partially withdrawing, preferably substantially completely withdrawing, the medium from the balloon, wherein the balloon is supplied with the medium by actuating the pump via the balloon tube at least is partially, preferably substantially completely, removed, wherein the removal of the stuffing element comprises pulling the balloon out of the tube section, the balloon being pulled out on the balloon tube, and removed via the lid passage, the lid passage being closed.

In simple words, the stuffing element can therefore be removed, especially if an intervention into the pipe section or into a lower pipe section is to be made possible again, for example in order to resume work. It can be provided that the stuffing element can be easily pulled out, especially when it is completely filled. This enables particularly quick removal, since the pump does not have to be activated first, which is particularly advantageous if the lid does not close the opening. This makes it possible to reintroduce it unchanged if the stuffing element is blocked again. It is also conceivable that the medium is at least partially, preferably substantially completely, removed from the balloon, in particular by actuating the pump, in order to be able to pull out the stuffing element more easily. It is conceivable to essentially pull the balloon out via the balloon tube. In other words, the balloon tube can simply be pulled out, whereby the balloon connected thereto is essentially pulled out, making it easier to remove the stuffing element. It can be provided that the balloon tube is pulled through the cover bushing in order to remove the balloon from the tube section. Provision can also be made to pull the balloon through the lid feedthrough, whereby the balloon, the balloon tube and/or the pump can be essentially separated from the lid. This means they can be replaced and/or are out of the way during an operation. Provision can be made to close the cover bushing, in particular afterwards. It can be provided that, particularly as a final step, the lid is used to close the opening. This means that a barrier can be achieved, particularly if the cover bushing is closed.

The above object is further achieved by a stuffing element according to the invention for an inspection device for shutting off a pipe section, the stuffing element having an inflatable balloon, a balloon tube and a pump, the balloon being connected to the pump via the balloon tube, the pump being the inflatable balloon can supply a medium in order to increase its volume and thereby close off a pipe section, withdraw the medium from the inflatable balloon in order to reduce its volume and thereby unblock the pipe section, or keep the volume of the inflatable balloon constant in order to shut off the Maintain pipe section.

Within the scope of the invention, it is conceivable that the balloon has a cross section that is essentially pointed and/or oval in the direction of flow, in particular in order to facilitate insertion, withdrawal and/or movement within the tube section.

The balloon can have such a shape in the at least partially inflated state, preferably in the fully inflated state, in particular when shut off in the stuffing position. Due to a tapered shape, the balloon can be pushed into the tube section or pulled out of the tube section more easily, in particular even if the balloon is already at least partially or completely inflated. Thus, insertion, withdrawal and/or movement within the tube section can be facilitated, thereby enabling faster and reliable positioning.

Within the scope of the invention it can be provided that the balloon has a sliding area and/or friction area.

It can be provided that the sliding area has a lubricant, which enables improved sliding of the balloon in the tube section, whereby the balloon can preferably be positioned more quickly and more precisely, and in particular a readjustment of the stuffing position is possible, especially if the balloon is already in the Essentially completely filled with the medium. The sliding area can only be arranged in a central area of the balloon, which makes it possible in particular to position an at least partially but not completely inflated balloon with low friction within the tube section, in particular in the stuffing position. The sliding area can have a length, in particular viewed downwards in the flow direction, between 0 to 50 cm, preferably between 1 to 30 cm, preferably between 2 and 20 cm, particularly preferably between 3 to 15 cm, ideally between 4 to 8 cm. In the context of the present invention, a lubricant can in the simplest case be a soap or soapy water. This can preferably be prepared easily and anywhere. It can also be provided that a lubricant essentially represents a particularly smooth surface structure. This can be done, for example, by polishing or chemical treatment. It can further be provided that the balloon has a friction area, which is preferably arranged, in particular in the direction of flow, below and/or above the sliding area, the friction area preferably having an increased coefficient of friction, in particular in comparison to the sliding area, preferably in comparison to a conventional pipe. As a result, similar to what was described above, the balloon can be easily positioned in a specific stuffing position due to the increased friction, which makes further position changes particularly difficult. It can thus be made possible to first at least partially inflate the balloon so that the sliding area contacts the tube section essentially completely, to then position the balloon, preferably in the stuffing position, and then to further inflate the balloon so that the friction area is in contact with the tube section Contact comes, which makes it more difficult to move the balloon, and it is preferably fixed in the stuffing position. This means that a user, particularly an inexperienced one, can implement a predefined or always identical tamping position. The friction range can in particular be between 0 to 60 cm, preferably between 0.1 to 30 cm, preferably between 0.3 to 20 cm, particularly preferably between 1 to 10 cm, ideally between 2 to 5 cm, in particular measured essentially along the Direction of flow for a balloon in the stuffing position. The friction area can essentially completely surround the balloon on its outward-facing side. A narrower friction area can be easier and more cost-effective to produce. A wider friction area can offer increased reliability because the balloon cannot simply be moved unnoticed, especially with momentum or a lot of force. It may be particularly preferred to provide a sliding area which is arranged above a friction section in the flow direction, whereby both of the above-mentioned advantages can be realized in combination, with preferably an even simpler and / or more reliable positioning of the stuffing element being able to be achieved, in particular due to an enlarged one Difference between the friction coefficients of the sliding area and the friction area. It can also be provided that a sliding area is essentially surrounded by an upper friction area and a lower friction area. Thus, the sliding area can initially be used to allow easy positioning, and then both in the flow direction above and below a barrier can be done by the upper and lower friction area. This can lead to a particularly reliable and tight barrier.

The inspection device can be essentially universal and reused, making its use environmentally friendly. Furthermore, parts of the inspection device, in particular the pipe section, the seal, the balloon, the balloon tube and/or the pump can be replaced modularly, for example due to wear and/or contamination, which advantageously results in optimized functional activity and/or environmental friendliness. It can also be provided that the inspection device essentially remains installed, which in particular enables a repeated intervention in which in particular only the opening is closed and preferably no further closure takes place. This can be advantageous, for example, in an older pipe system that regularly clogs and therefore requires repeated intervention.

• 1: eine schematische Darstellung eines Rohrs 1000 welches in Strömungsrichtung 200 durchflossen wird,
• 2: eine schematische Darstellung eines Rohrabschnitts 3 mit einer Öffnung 30,
• 3: eine schematische Darstellung eines Rohrabschnitts 3 mit einer Öffnung 30 welche von einem Deckel 5 verschlossen ist,
• 4: eine schematische Darstellung eines Rohrabschnitts 3 mit einer Dichtung 6 in der Innendichtstellung 60,
• 5: eine schematische Darstellung eines Rohrabschnitts 3 mit einem Stopfelement 4,
• 6: eine schematische Darstellung eines Rohrabschnitts 3 mit einem Stopfelement 4 in der Stopfposition 40.

Further advantages, features and details of the invention emerge from the following description, in which several exemplary embodiments of the invention are described in detail with reference to the drawings. The features mentioned in the claims and in the description can be essential to the invention individually or in any combination. The invention is shown in the following figures:

• 1 : a schematic representation of a pipe 1000 which flows through in the flow direction 200,
• 2 : a schematic representation of a pipe section 3 with an opening 30,
• 3 : a schematic representation of a pipe section 3 with an opening 30 which is closed by a cover 5,
• 4 : a schematic representation of a pipe section 3 with a seal 6 in the internal sealing position 60,
• 5 : a schematic representation of a pipe section 3 with a stuffing element 4,
• 6 : a schematic representation of a pipe section 3 with a stuffing element 4 in the stuffing position 40.

1 shows a pipe 1000 through which flow is in a flow direction 200. The pipe 1000 can be arranged essentially vertically, in particular perpendicular to the earth's surface, whereby the pipe 1000 flows through from top to bottom, in particular in the flow direction 200. In other words, it can be provided that the flow direction 200 is oriented essentially from top to bottom (according to gravity). In the context of the invention, it is provided that the flow direction 200 is also used to describe the invention, even if no medium 44 should flow through the pipe or the pipe section 3.

2 shows a pipe 1000, which can flow through in a flow direction 200. In the present case, the tube 1000 can have a tube section 3. Also shown is an upper tube 110, which can lie essentially above the tube section 3. Also shown is a lower tube 120, which can lie essentially below the tube section 3. It can be provided that a tube has an upper tube 110, a lower tube 120 and a tube section 3 in between. The pipe section 3 can have an inlet 1, in particular pointing upwards or in the direction of the upper pipe 110, and an outlet 2, in particular pointing downwards or in the direction of the lower pipe 120. In other words, the pipe section 3 can be flowed through , for example, by water emerging from the upper pipe 110 and entering the pipe section 3 via the inlet 1, and leaving it via the outlet 2 to flow into the lower pipe 120. It can be provided that the pipe section 3 is attached to the upper pipe 110 and/or lower pipe 120. It can also be provided that the pipe section 3 has a narrowing essentially near the inlet 1 and/or outlet 2, in particular in order to be connected to the upper and/or lower pipe 120, for example by reversibly releasably plugging them into one another, in particular underneath Using a sealing ring for sealing. Furthermore, the pipe section 3 can have an opening 30, which is preferably oriented essentially perpendicular to the flow direction 200. In other words, the opening 30 can be located laterally on the pipe section 3. An intervention into the pipe section 3 can take place via the opening 30. An intervention can take place in the flow direction 200, in particular downwards, with the intervention preferably taking place in the lower pipe section 21. An intervention can take place against the flow direction 200, in particular upwards, with the intervention preferably taking place in the upper pipe section 11.

3 shows, especially building on 2 , a pipe section 3. The pipe section 3 has a seal 6, which is in particular in an external sealing position 61. As a result, an opening 30 in the pipe section 3 can be closed by the seal 6, preferably in a medium-tight manner. In other words, a closure can take place at this point, with in particular no exchange. of fluids and/or gases. In the external sealing position 61, the seal 6 can be arranged via a fixing means 62 on an external counter-fixing means 64, in particular in engagement with it, whereby the seal 6 can preferably be fixed in the external sealing position 61, preferably in a reversibly releasable manner. The seal 6 can be pivoted via a hinge 7 into an internal sealing position 60. A change from the internal sealing position 60 to the external sealing position 61 or vice versa can be carried out without tools. Furthermore, can a cover connection 51 may be provided, which may in particular include a thread onto which a complementary thread of a cover 5 is preferably screwed.

4 shows a pipe section 3, a cover 5 being arranged on a cover connection 51, the cover connection 51 having a thread which can be brought into engagement with a complementary thread of the cover 5, in particular screwed, preferably a reversibly detachable connection arises, which can be made or solved without tools. Through the cover 5, the opening 30 of the pipe section 3 can be blocked off or closed at this point. It can be provided that the external fixing means 62 is arranged directly between the opening 30 and the cover connection 51, preferably integrated into it. The seal 6 is in an internal sealing position 60, which can be reached by pivoting via the hinge 7. Preferably, the seal 6 is fixed in the internal sealing position 60, in which the fixing means 62 is reversibly releasably engaged with an inner counter-fixing means 63, preferably without tools. The seal 6 can thus be fixed essentially perpendicular to the flow direction 200. This can result in a shut-off, with preferably no fluid and/or gas being able to pass through the seal 6 along the flow direction 200, and in particular not vice versa. The seal 6 essentially divides the pipe section 3 into an upper pipe section 11, which is located above the seal 6, in particular in the flow direction 200, and a lower pipe section 21, which is located below the seal 6, in particular in the flow direction 200. In the internal sealing position 60, even with an at least partially, preferably completely, opened lid 5, engagement via the opening 30 can only take place in the lower pipe section 21. The lid 5 has a lid bushing 50, which can be closed in a reversibly releasable manner, preferably without tools, in particular in order to 4 configuration shown to close off the opening 30.

5 shows, especially building on 4 , a pipe section 3, the seal 6 being in the internal sealing position 60. A balloon 41 and/or at least partially a balloon tube 42 can be inserted via the cover feedthrough 50. The balloon 41 is connected to a pump 43 via the balloon tube 42. The balloon tube 42 also has an adapter 45. This can preferably be located outside the cover 5 or the pipe section 3. The balloon 41 can be at least partially or completely filled with a medium 44. The balloon 41 can be moved by inserting the balloon tube 42 through the cover feedthrough 50, in particular in the direction of a material position, whereby the force of gravity acting on the balloon 41 and/or on the medium 44 can be supportive. By activating the pump 43, a medium 44 can be supplied and/or withdrawn from the balloon 41 via the balloon tube 42. It can be particularly preferred if the balloon 41, preferably in the stuffing position 40, is completely filled with the medium 44, in particular in such a way that it adjoins the pipe section 3, in particular on the inside, whereby the pipe section 3 is blocked off, preferably completely he follows. The balloon 41 can only be completely filled in the stuffing position 40, which means that the balloon 41 can be positioned more easily beforehand. It is also conceivable that the balloon 41 is already completely filled, essentially above the stuffing position 40, whereby the weight increases, and the balloon 41 can be moved towards the stuffing position 40, in particular in combination with an introduction of the balloon tube 42 through the Lid bushing 50. It can be provided that the pipe section 3 has one, preferably two, opposing sliding sections 8 and/or friction sections 9. A sliding section 8 can improve sliding into the stuffing position 40. A friction section 9 can prevent the balloon 41 from being moved beyond the stuffing position 40. A friction section 9 can at least partially contribute to fixing the balloon 41 in the stuffing position 40.

6 shows, especially building on 5 , a pipe section 3, which is blocked off by a balloon 41, in particular when it is fully inflated. This can preferably prevent fluid and/or gases from passing through the balloon 41, in particular at the level of the stuffing position 40, whereby in particular an outflow from the lower tube 120 can be prevented. The balloon tube 42 can be divided essentially via an adapter 45, preferably reversibly detachable, in particular without tools. This allows the pump 43 to be removed, with the balloon 41 preferably remaining within the pipe section 3. This allows the pump 43 to be used for other purposes and/or to prevent the volume from being changed by actuating the pump 43. The adapter 45 can, for example, have a screw connection. It can be provided that the balloon 41 is in

It can essentially be prevented from slipping further along the flow direction 200 from the material position, in particular into the lower tube 120, by preventing the balloon 41, in particular at the lower end of the tube section 3, by a stop point. This can be done, for example, by narrowing the pipe Section 3 can be achieved, in particular by reducing the diameter, which is preferably also used to insert the pipe section 3 essentially into the lower pipe 120 and preferably to fix it, whereby in particular a plug-in connection that can be reversibly detached, in particular without tools, can be provided.

Reference symbol list

1

inlet

2

outlet

3

pipe section

4

Stuffing element

5

Lid

6

poetry

7

hinge

8th

sliding section

9

rubbing section

11

upper pipe section

21

lower pipe section

30

opening

40

Stuffing position

41

balloon

42

Balloon tube

43

pump

44

medium

45

adapter

50

Lid feedthrough

51

Lid connection

60

Internal sealing position

61

External sealing position

62

fixer

63

internal counter-fixative

64

external counterfixative

100

Revision device

110

upper tube

120

lower tube

200

Direction of flow

1000

Pipe

Claims (14)

Inspection device (100) for shutting off a pipe (1000), in particular a sewage pipe, the inspection device (100) having an inlet (1), an outlet (2) and an intermediate pipe section (3) with an opening (30), characterized in that in that the inspection device (100) has a reversibly detachable stuffing element (4) which can be inserted via the opening (30) in order to shut off the pipe section (3). Revision device (100). Claim 1 , characterized in that the stuffing element (4) can be positioned at least partially flexibly in the pipe section (3), the stuffing element (4) being able to be brought into a stuffing position (40), the stuffing element (4) being in the stuffing position (40). Pipe section (3) is reversibly and detachably blocked. Revision device (100). Claim 1 or 2 , characterized in that the stuffing element (4) has an inflatable balloon (41), a balloon tube (42) and a pump (43), the balloon (41) preferably being connected to the pump (43) via the balloon tube (42). is, and in particular the pump (43) can supply a medium (44) to the inflatable balloon (41) in order to increase its volume and thereby close off the pipe section (3), or the inflatable balloon (41) can supply the medium (44) to remove it in order to reduce its volume and thereby unblock the pipe section (3), or to keep the volume of the inflatable balloon (41) constant in order to maintain a barrier to the pipe section (3). Inspection device (100) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the medium (44) has a liquid, in particular water, a gas, in particular air or a mixture comprising a liquid and a gas. Inspection device (100) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the pump (43) comprises an automatic or a manual pump (43), the pump (43) having a pump drain valve for discharging the medium (44) via the pump ( 43) to be released from the balloon (41). Inspection device (100) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the inspection device (100) has a cover (5) which can be reversibly and detachably arranged at the opening (30) via a cover connection (51), preferably the cover (5 ) at least one has a closable lid passage (50), in particular to enable the stuffing element (4) to be inserted, held and/or pulled out, with the lid (5) closing the opening (30) when the lid passage (50) is closed. Inspection device (100) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that a seal (6), in particular a (reinforced) rubber seal (6), and a hinge (7) are included, the seal (6) being over the hinge (7 ) between an external sealing position (61), in which the opening (30) is sealed by the seal (6), and an internal sealing position (60), in which the seal (6) holds the pipe section (3) at the height of the hinge (7). seals, is pivotable, in particular in the internal sealing position (60), the seal (6) divides the pipe section (3) into an upper pipe section (11) and a lower pipe section (21) located downstream in the flow direction (200), preferably the seal (6) has a fixing means (62) on the side facing outwards in the external sealing position (61), in particular the fixing means (62) releasably fixing the seal (6) on the outside of the pipe section (3) in the external sealing position (61) and thereby sealing the pipe section (3) to the outside, in particular the fixing means (62) in the internal sealing position (60) reversibly releasably fixing the seal (6) on the inside of the pipe section (3) essentially opposite the hinge (7) and thereby Pipe section (3) seals in the flow direction (200) and / or vice versa, the fixing means (62) preferably being fixable and detachable without tools, for example by a tilt lock. Method for shutting off a pipe (1000) with an inspection device (100), in particular according to one of the preceding Claims 1 until 7 , with an inlet (1), an outlet (2), an intermediate pipe section (3) and an opening (30), comprising at least one of the following steps: • Shutting off the pipe section (3), in particular in the flow direction (200) and / or vice versa, by a seal (6), in particular by pivoting the seal (6) via a hinge (7) from an external sealing position (61) to an internal sealing position (60), in which the seal (6) opens the pipe section (3). Height of the hinge (7) seals, which preferably enables engagement via the opening (30) in the pipe section (3) in a lower pipe section downstream of the seal (6), and / or • at least partially inserting a stuffing element (4), to shut off the pipe section (3), thereby enabling engagement in the pipe section (3) between the seal (6) and the stuffing element (4). Procedure according to Claim 8 , comprising at least one of the following steps • Opening a cover bushing (50) of a cover (5), in particular after the pipe section (3) has been closed by the seal (6), in particular the cover (5) opening (30) of the inspection device (100) closes • wherein the at least partial insertion includes inserting the stuffing element (4) through the cover passage (50), the stuffing element (4) having an inflatable balloon (41) which is completely inserted into the pipe section (3), wherein the stuffing element (4) has a balloon tube (42) connected to the balloon (41), which is at least partially inserted into the tube section (3) • Supplying a medium (44) into the inflatable balloon (41) of the stuffing element (4) , by actuating a pump (43) connected to the balloon tube (42) which supplies the medium (44) to the balloon (41) via the balloon tube (42), the balloon (41) being at least partially, preferably completely, with the medium ( 44) is filled, • positioning the balloon (41) in a stuffing position (40), which is preferably in the pipe section (3) in the flow direction (200) below the opening (30), in particular vertically below the opening (30), whereby the Pipe section (3) is sealed. Procedure according to one of the Claims 8 or 9 , wherein the method has at least one of the following steps: • unlocking the pipe section (3) by removing the stuffing element (4), and / or • unlocking the pipe section (3) through the seal (6), in particular by pivoting the seal (6 ) via the hinge (7) from the internal sealing position (60) at least partially into an external sealing position (61), in which the seal (6) seals the pipe section (3) from the outside. Procedure according to Claim 10 , • wherein the unlocking of the tube section (3) by removing the stuffing element (4) comprises unlocking the tube section (3) by at least partially withdrawing, preferably substantially completely withdrawing, the medium (44) from the balloon (41), wherein The medium (44) is at least partially, preferably substantially completely, removed from the balloon (41) by actuating the pump (43) via the balloon tube (42), wherein the removal of the stuffing element (4) involves pulling out the balloon (41). from the Rohrab section (3), the balloon (41) being pulled out on the balloon tube (42) and removed via the lid feedthrough (50), the lid feedthrough (50) being closed. Stuffing element (4) for an inspection device (100) for shutting off a pipe section (3), in particular according to Claims 1 until 7 , characterized in that the stuffing element (4) has an inflatable balloon (41), a balloon tube (42) and a pump (43), the balloon (41) being connected to the pump (43) via the balloon tube (42). , and wherein the pump (43) can supply a medium (44) to the inflatable balloon (41) in order to increase its volume and thereby close off a pipe section (3), or to withdraw the medium (44) from the inflatable balloon (41). to reduce its volume and thereby unblock the pipe section (3), or to keep the volume of the inflatable balloon (41) constant in order to maintain a barrier to the pipe section (3). Stuffing element (4) according to Claim 12 , characterized in that the balloon (41) has a substantially tapered and/or oval cross section in the direction of flow (200), in particular to facilitate insertion, withdrawal and/or movement within the tube section (3). Stuffing element (4) according to one of Claims 12 or 13 , characterized in that the balloon (41) has a sliding area (8) and/or friction area (9).

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