WO2013166202A2

WO2013166202A2 - High bandwidth push-cables for video inspection systems

Info

Publication number: WO2013166202A2
Application number: PCT/US2013/039141
Authority: WO
Inventors: Eric Chapman; Mark Olsson
Original assignee: Individual
Current assignee: Individual
Priority date: 2012-05-01
Filing date: 2013-05-01
Publication date: 2013-11-07
Anticipated expiration: 2014-11-01
Also published as: WO2013166202A3

Description

HIGH BANDWIDTH PUSH-CABLES FOR VIDEO INSPECTION SYSTEMS

FIELD

[00001] This disclosure relates generally to systems for inspecting the interior of pipes and other conduits or voids. More specifically, but not exclusively, this disclosure relates to high bandwidth push-cables for use in video inspection systems.

BACKGROUND

[00002] Devices and methods for visualizing the interior of pipes or other cavities are known in the art. For example, video pipe inspection systems typically include a video camera head at the end of a cable that is manually forced down the pipe to display the pipe interior on a video display. The inspection is commonly recorded using a video recorder (VCR) or digital video recorder (DVR).

[00003] Conventional video pipe inspection systems have included a semi-rigid push-cable that provides an electromechanical connection between a rugged camera head that houses the video camera, and a rotatable push reel used to pay out cable and force the camera head down the pipe. Existing push-cables used for such inspections are often helically wrapped with filler rods and conductors wound around a semi-rigid central push-rod. The central push- rod is typically a high-strength rod of composite material, such as fiberglass, which provides the stiffness necessary to push the cable a considerable distance, yet flexible enough to allow sharp turn in pipes and other conduits or voids.

[00004] However, current video push-cable constructions utilize a miniature seventy-five ohm impedance coaxial cable to carry the video signal, which must be handled carefully to avoid breakage, and tends to have high losses and reduced signal strength of the transmitted video signal over lengths greater than one hundred feet. A reduction in video signal strength results in a loss of fine detail or resolution as well as image contrast in the displayed video.

[00005] Accordingly, there is a need in the art to address the above-described as well as other problems. SUMMARY

[00006] The present disclosure relates generally to systems, methods, and apparatus used in pipe inspection. More specifically, but not exclusively, the disclosure relates to high bandwidth push-cables used in video pipe inspection to facilitate deployment of a camera head into a pipe or other cavity as well as to send video or other data or information to a cable reel and/or camera control unit (CCU) or other device. The push-cable may further be used to send control signaling from a CCU or other device to a camera head for camera control and manipulation actions during use.

[00007] For example, in one aspect, the present disclosure relates to a high bandwidth push-cable configured for high speed data communication, such as that used in computer networking, between a camera head and a cable reel.

[00008] In another aspect, the disclosure relates to an Ethernet push-cable having a central rod suitable for forcing a camera head through pipes, conduits, and other voids. The central rod may be composed of composite material, such as fiberglass or other similar materials. A plurality of monofilaments and unshielded twisted pairs (UTP) may be longitudinally disposed, and helically wound, around the central rod for data transmission.

[00009] In another aspect, the disclosure relates to a coaxial push-cable having a plurality of rods disposed around a coaxial cable suitable for forcing a camera head through pipes, conduits, and other voids. The rods may be composed of composite material, such as fiberglass or other similar materials. Kevlar or Aramid fiber may be substituted for glass fiber in the construction of the fiberglass rods. A coaxial cable element may be disposed centrally in coaxial push-cable for providing high bandwidth transmission of data and other information. Coaxial cable element may include one or more conductive elements and one or more insulating layers.

[000010] In another aspect, the disclosure relates to a video push-cable for use in, for example, a video inspection system The video push-cable may include a push rod and a cable circuit disposed about the push rod. The cable circuit may be configured as an Ethernet cable circuit or other analog or digital data cable circuit.

[000011] In another aspect, the disclosure relates to a coaxial push-cable. The coaxial push-cable may include, for example, a coaxial core cable element and a plurality of rods disposed about the coaxial core cable element. The coaxial core cable element may include an inner conductor, a dielectric core, and a coaxial shield. Ones of the plurality of rods may be helically wound about the coaxial core element.

[000012] In another aspect, the disclosure relates to a video inspection system. The video inspection system may include, for example, a camera head and a push-cable. The push-cable may include a push rod and a cable circuit disposed about the push rod. The cable circuit may be configured as an Ethernet cable circuit or other analog or digital data cable circuit.

[000013] In another aspect, the disclosure relates to a video inspection system. The video inspection system may include, for example, a a camera head and a push-cable. The push-cable may include a coaxial core cable element and a plurality of rods disposed about the coaxial core cable element. The video inspection system may further include a push reeL

[000014] In another aspect, the disclosure relates to an Ethernet video push- cable. The Ethernet video push-cable may include, for example, a central push rod and a cable circuit disposed about the push rod. The Ethernet video push-cable may further include an optical fiber.

[000015] In another aspect, the disclosure relates to a high bandwidth push-cable for use in, for example, a video inspection system. The high bandwidth push-cable may include, for example, a coaxial core element including one or more conductive elements, a coaxial shield,a plurality of rods, and an outer insulating jacket. The push-cable may further include one or more optical fiber cables. The one or more optical fiber cables may be disposed about or on or within the rods. The high bandwidth push-cable may further include a binding wrap secured about the rods.

[000016] Various additional aspects, features, functions, and details are further described below in conjunction with the appended Drawings.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[000017] The present application may be more fully appreciated in connection with the following detailed description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, wherein:

[000018] FIG. 1 illustrates details of an embodiment of a pipe inspection system configured with a high bandwidth push-cable, in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure; [000019] FIG. 2 is an enlarged fragmentary isometric view of an embodiment of an Ethernet push-cable, illustrating details thereof;

[000020] FIG. 3 is a cross-section view of the Ethernet push-cable embodiment, taken along line 3 - 3 of FIG. 2;

[000021] FIG. 4 is an enlarged fragmentary isometric view of an embodiment of a coaxial push-cable, illustrating details thereof; and

[000022] FIG. 5 is a cross-section view of the coaxial push-cable embodiment, taken along line 5 - 5 of FIG. 4.

[000023] FIG. 6 is an enlarged fragmentary isometric view of an embodiment of an Ethernet push-cable, illustrating details thereof;

[000024] FIG. 7 is a cross-section view of the Ethernet push-cable embodiment, taken along line 7 - 7 of FIG. 6;

[000025] FIG. 8 is an enlarged fragmentary isometric view of an embodiment of a coaxial push-cable, illustrating details thereof; and

[000026] FIG. 9 is a cross-section view of the coaxial push-cable embodiment, taken along line 9 - 9 of FIG. 8.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS

Overview

[000027] The present disclosure relates generally to systems, methods, and apparatus used in pipe inspection. More specifically, but not exclusively, the disclosure relates to high bandwidth push-cables used in video pipe inspection to facilitate deployment of a camera head into a pipe or other cavity as well as to send video or other data or information to a cable reel and/or camera control unit (CCU) or other device. The push-cable may further be used to send control signaling from a CCU or other device to a camera head for camera control and manipulation actions during use.

[000028] For example, in one aspect the disclosure relates to an Ethernet push- cable device may include a plurality of unshielded twisted pairs (UTPs) and monofilaments and/or fiberglass rods aligned longitudinally and wrapped helically around a central rod, such as a fiberglass rod. An insulating element, such as tape, may be used to enclose and provide insulation for conductors, such as unshielded twisted pairs (UTPs) and monofilaments. A jacket element may be disposed externally to provide insulation and protection from moisture or other harmful elements. The Ethernet push-cable may further include one or more optical fibers for carrying analog or digital video signals or other data or information.

[000029] In another aspect, the disclosure relates to a coaxial push-cable having a plurality of rods disposed around a coaxial cable suitable for forcing a camera head through pipes, conduits, and other voids. The rods may be composed of composite material, such as fiberglass or other similar materials. Kevlar or Aramid fiber may be used in place or or in addition to glass fiber in the construction of the fiberglass rods. A coaxial cable element may be disposed centrally in coaxial push-cable for providing high bandwidth transmission of data and other information. Coaxial cable element may include one or more conductive elements and one or more insulating layers. The coaxial push-cable may further include one or more optical fibers for carrying analog or digital video signals or other data or information.

[000030] In another aspect, the disclosure relates to a video push-cable for use in, for example, a video inspection system. The video push-cable may include a push rod and a cable circuit disposed about the push rod. The cable circuit may be configured as an Ethernet cable circuit or other analog or digital data cable circuit.

[000031] The push rod may, for example, be disposed in substantially the center of the push-cable. The push rod may include a resilient composite material. The resilient composite material may be fiberglass, carbon fiber, or other resilient composite materials. The cable circuit may include a plurality of conductive wires grouped in twisted pairs. The twisted pairs may be helically would around the push rod.

[000032] The cable circuit may, for example, include two or more twisted pairs. Ones of the two or more twisted pairs may have two or more twist rates to reduce crosstalk. The two or more twist rates may be selected so as not to affect the characteristic impedance. The two or more twisted pairs may be four twisted pairs.

[000033] The push-cable may further include one or more non-conductive elements or spacers. The one or more non-conductive elements or spacers may be disposed about the push rod. The non-conductive elements may be monofilaments or other polymer materials. The monofilaments may be alternated and distributed longitudinally around the push rod.

[000034] The push-cable may, for example, further include a film binding the cable circuit and monofilaments or other polymer materials. The push-cable may further include one or more optical fiber cables. The one or more optical fiber cables may be disposed about or on or within the push rod. The push-cable may include a wrap around the push rod. The wrap may include a TFE or PTFE material The push-cable may further include a wrap around the cable circuit. The wrap around the cable circuit may include a TFE or PTFE material. The monofilaments may be alternated and distributed longitudinally around the push rod.

[000035] In another aspect, the disclosure relates to a coaxial push-cable. The coaxial push-cable may include, for example, a coaxial core cable element and a plurality of rods disposed about the coaxial core cable element. The coaxial core cable element may include an inner conductor, a dielectric core, and a coaxial shield. Ones of the plurality of rods may be helically wound about the coaxial core element.

[000036] The push-cable may further include a binding wrap. The push-cable may further include a braid disposed around the binding wrap to carry electrical signals. The push-cable may further include an outer insulating jacket. The push-cable may further include one or more optical fiber cables. The one or more optical fiber cables may be disposed about or on or within the rods.

[000037] The rods may, for example, include a composite material The composite material may be fiberglass, carbon fiber, or other composite materials. The push- cable may further include a binding wrap binding the rods. The push-cable may further include a conductive material disposed around an outer surface of the binding wrap.

[000038] In another aspect, the disclosure relates to a video inspection system. The video inspection system may include, for example, a camera head and a push-cable. The push-cable may include a push rod and a cable circuit disposed about the push rod. The cable circuit may be configured as an Ethernet cable circuit or other analog or digital data cable circuit.

[000039] The video inspection system push rod may, for example, be disposed in substantially the center of the push-cable. The push rod may include a resilient composite material. The resilient composite material may be fiberglass, carbon fiber, or other resilient composite materials. The cable circuit may include a plurality of conductive wires grouped in twistedpairs. The twisted pairs may be helically would around the push rod.

[000040] The video inspection system cable circuit may, for example, include two or more twisted pairs. Ones of the two or more twisted pairs may have two or more twist rates to reduce crosstalk. The two or more twist rates may be selected so as not to affect the characteristic impedance.

[000041] The video inspection system push-cable may further include one or more non-conductive elements or spacers. The one or more non-conductive elements or spacers may be disposed about the push rod. The non-conductive elements may be monofilaments or other polymer materials. The monofilaments may be alternated and distributed longitudinally around the push rod.

[000042] The video inspection system push-cable may, for example, further include a film binding the cable circuit and monofilaments or other polymer materials. The push-cable may further include one or more optical fiber cables. The one or more optical fiber cables may be disposed about or on or within the rods. The push-cable may include a wrap around the push rod. The wrap may include a TFE or PTFE material. The push-cable may further include a wrap around the cable circuit. The wrap around the cable circuit may include a TFE or PTFE material. The monofilaments may be alternated and distributed longitudinally around the push rod.

[000043] The video inspection system may, for example, further include a push or cable reel The push reel may include an electronic circuit for receiving analog or digital signals from the push rod generated by the camera head. The electronic circuit may include a wired or wireless communication circuit for communication to a camera control unit (CCU . The push reel may include an integral CCU. The push reel may include a cable counter or other circuit for measuring deployed cable length. The push reel may include a transmitter for generating a current signal for coupling to a sonde or buried utility to generate a magnetic field.

[000044] The video inspection system may, for example, further include a camera control unit (CCU). The CCU may be configured to control camera head operation and/or receive video or data from the camera head. The video inspection system may further include a wireless transmission module configured to wirelessly transmit video signals and/or data and/or receive data or control signals. The wireless transmission module may be a Wi-Fi module or other wireless local area network module. The wireless transmission module includes a Bluetooth or other short range wireless transmission module.

[000045] In another aspect, the disclosure relates to a video inspection system The video inspection system may include, for example, a camera head and a push-cable. The push-cable may include a coaxial core cable element and a plurality of rods disposed about the coaxial core cable element. The video inspection system may further include a push reel

[000046] The video inspection system coaxial push-cable may include, for example, a coaxial core cable element and a plurality of rods disposed about the coaxial core cable element. The coaxial core cable element may include an inner conductor, a dielectric core, and a coaxial shield. Ones of the plurality of rods may be helically wound about the coaxial core element. The video inspection system push-cable may further include one or more optical fiber cables. The one or more optical fiber cables may be disposed about or on or within the rods.

[000047] The video inspection system coaxial push-cable may further include a binding wrap. The video inspection system coaxial push-cable may further include a braid disposed around the binding wrap to carry electrical signals. The video inspection system coaxial push-cable may further include an outer insulating jacket. The video inspection system coaxial push-cable rods may, for example, include a composite material The composite material may be fiberglass, carbon fiber, or other composite materials. The video inspection system coaxial push-cable may further include a binding wrap binding the rods. The push- cable may further include a conductive material disposed around an outer surface of the binding wrap.

[000048] In another aspect, the disclosure relates to an Ethernet video push- cable. The Ethernet video push-cable may include, for example, a central push rod and a cable circuit disposed about the push rod. The Ethernet video push-cable may further include an optical fiber.

[000049] The Ethernet video push-cable may further include one or more twisted pairs. The Ethernet video push-cable may further include one or more spacers. The one or more spacers may be monofilaments or other polymer materials disposed adjacent to or between the one or more twisted pairs. The optical fiber may be disposed within the center of one of the monofilaments or other polymer materials. The one or more twisted pairs may be helically wrapped around the push rod. The optical fiber may be disposed within the central push rod. The rods may include Kevlar or aramid fibers.

[000050] The one or more twisted pairs may include two or more twisted pairs. The two or more twisted pairs may have different twist rates or pitch. The Ethernet video push-cable may include one or more optical fiber cables. The one or more optical fiber cables may be disposed about or on or within the central push rod.

[000051] In another aspect, the disclosure relates to a high bandwidth push-cable for use in, for example, a video inspection system. The high bandwidth push-cable may include, for example, a coaxial core element including one or more conductive elements, a coaxial shield, a plurality of rods, and an outer insulating jacket. The push-cable may further include one or more optical fiber cables. The one or more optical fiber cables may be disposed about or on or within the rods. The high bandwidth push-cable may further include a binding wrap secured about the rods.

[000052] The rods may, for example, be fiberglass rods or rods of other composite materials. The rods may include Kevlar or aramid fibers. The rods may be helically wrapped about the coaxial core element. The high bandwidth push-cable may further include a conductive element disposed about an outer surface of the binding wrap to carry electrical signals. The conductive element may include Spectra™ gel-spun braid (gel spun polyethylene fibers or GSPE) or other conductive materials.

[000053] The term "exemplary" is used herein to mean "serving as an example, instance, or illustration." Any aspect and/or embodiment described herein as "exemplary" is not necessarily to be construed as preferred or advantageous over other aspects and/or embodiments.

Example Posh-Cable Embodiments For Video Inspection Systems

[000054] Referring to FIG. 1, an exemplary embodiment of a pipe inspection system 100 is illustrated in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure. In one aspect, pipe inspection system 100 may include a camera head 102 coupled to the end of a high bandwidth push-cable 110, which may be payed out and retrieved from a push-cable drum reel 106 by a user, either manually or automatically. High bandwidth push-cable 110 may provide an electromechanical connection between the camera head 102 and drum reel 106 used to force a camera head 102 down the length of a pipe 113. An elongated coil spring 104 may be disposed around a segment of high bandwidth push-cable 110 for protection and rigidity. Video signals and/or data or other information may be sent via the push-cable 110 between the camera head 102 and cable reel 106 and/or between other video inspection system elements such as a camera control unit (CCU) (not shown), wireless transmission module (not shown) or external computer, tablet, cellular device, and the like (not shown).

[000055] One or more data comniunication elements, such as a wireless transceiver module (not shown) may be disposed within the pipe inspection system, such as for example, inside drum reel 106, for transmitting and receiving signals via wireless technology, such as Win, WLAN, Bluetooth, cellular, and the like. Wireless HDMI may also be used in some embodiments. Video signal compression may be implemented within the pipe inspection system, such as, for example, in the rotating portion of the drum reel 106 and/or in the camera head 102 or CCU.

[000056] FIG. 2 is an enlarged fragmentary isometric view of an embodiment of an Ethernet push-cable 210, illustrating details thereof. Ethernet push-cable 210 may correspond with high bandwidth push-cable 110 (as shown in FIG. 1). In an exemplary embodiment, push-cable 110 may include one or more push rods 212, which may be made of fiberglass or other resilient composite materials and may be disposed centrally in Ethernet push-cable 210 to provide flexible strength to the push-cable. In an exemplary embodiment, a push-cable may include a single push rod 212 as shown; however, in other embodiments two or more push rods may be used.

[000057] Ethernet push-cable 210 may also include various mechanical elements and conductors, such as a plurality of conductive wires, such as unshielded twisted pairs (UTP) 214, which may be helically wrapped around central push rod 212, to provide data transmission. In addition, a plurality of non-conductive elements or spacers, such as monofilaments 216, may be dispersed between UTPs 214. Monofilaments 216 may be made of one more or materials, such as fiberglass, carbon fiber, braided metals, and/or other materials to provide stiffness and strength along the push-cable 210. One or more of the monofilaments 216 may optionally be replaced with fiber optic cables or other wires or cables or the fiber optic cables or other wires or cable may be include in addition to the monofilaments.

[000058] UTPs 214 may include four or more twisted pairs of wires with various twist rates, which may be commonly referred to as "pitch" of the twists, such as 65.2 turns/m (green), 64.8 turns/m (blue), 56.2 turns/m (orange), and 51.7 turns/m (brown). By varying the pitch, crosstalk may be reduced without affecting the characteristic impedance. [000059] A layer of film or adhesive material, such as a tape 218, such as Neptape® laminates or tapes or other mechanical binding elements, may be used to bind UTPs 214 and monofilaments 216 longitudinally disposed along central push rod 212. An outer insulating jacket 222, which may be made of extruded polyamide or other insulating materials, may be disposed on the external surface of push-cable 410 to provide insulation and protection against moisture or other environmental elements or contaminants. Shielding tape may be disposed underneath jacket 222 and may utilize copper or aluminum foil or tape.

[000060] FIG. 3 is a cross-section view of the Ethernet push-cable embodiment 210, taken along line 3 - 3 of FIG. 2. Spacers, such as monofilaments 216, may be alternated and distributedlongitudinally around central push rod 212 and enclosed within tape 218.

[000061] Other elements may be included in push-cable 110, such as, for example, polytetraflouroethylene (PTFE) tape or similar or equivalent materials, which may optionally be used to wrap central push rod 212 and/or wrap (individually) one or more UTPs 214.

[000062] FIG. 4 is an enlarged fragmentary isometric view of an alternate high bandwidth push-cable embodiment, such as a Coaxial push-cable 410, illustrating details thereof. Coaxial push-cable 410 may correspond with high bandwidth push-cable 110 of Figure 1. In an exemplary embodiment, a coaxial core cable element 412 may be disposed centrally in coaxial push-cable 410 for providing high bandwidth transmission of data and other information.

[000063] Coaxial cable element 412 may include one or more conductive elements, such as an inner conductor 426, which may be made of strand and/or solid copper, or silver plated copper, or copper-plated iron or steel wire, or other similar materials, and one or more insulating layers, such as a dielectric insulating core 428, which may be made of solid or foam plastic, such as solid polyethylene (PE), solid Teflon (PTFE), polyethylene foam, or other similar materials. A coax shield 430, which may be, for example, a copper braid, a silver plated copper braid, copper foil tape, or other shielding materials) may optionally be disposed around dielectric insulating core 428. Air with spacers may optionally be used to support the inner wire. A layer of tape 418 may optionally be disposed around coaxial cable element 412 for friction modification and/or diameter adjustment.

[000064] Push-cable 410 may include a plurality of rods 416 which may be helically wrapped around coax 412. Rods 416 may be made of fiberglass or other composite material to provide flexible strength to the push-cable 410. A binding wrap 414 may be used for binding fiberglass rods 416. A conductive element, such as a Spectra™ gel-spun braid 420 or other conductive material, may optionally be disposed around the outer surface of binding wrap 414 to carry electrical signals within push-cable 410. An outer insulating jacket 422, which may be made of extruded polyamide or the like, may be disposed on the external surface of push-cable 410 to provide insulation and protection against moisture and other elements. Outer insulating jacket 422 may correspond with jacket 222 (FIG. 2).

[000065] FIG. 5 is a cross-section view of the coaxial push-cable embodiment 410, taken along line 5 - 5 of FIG. 4. In an exemplary embodiment, coaxial cable element 412 may include one or more elements, such as inner conductor 426 embedded within dielectric insulating core 428. Various elements, such as tape 418, fiberglass rods 416, binding wrap 414, and outer insulating jacket 422 may be disposed around coaxial cable element 412. Push- cable 410 may optionally include Spectra™ gel-spun braid 420 and coax shield 430.

[000066] FIG. 6 is an enlarged fragmentary isometric view of an embodiment of an Ethernet push-cable 610, illustrating details thereof. Ethernet push-cable 610 may correspond with high bandwidth push-cable 110 (as shown in FIG. 1). In an exemplary embodiment, push-cable 110 may include one or more push rods 612, which may be made of fiberglass or other resilient composite materials and may be disposed centrally in Ethernet push-cable 610 to provide flexible strength to the push-cable. In an exemplary embodiment, a push-cable may include a single push rod 612 as shown; however, in other embodiments two or more push rods may be used.

[000067] Ethernet push-cable 610 may also include various mechanical elements and conductors, such as a plurality of conductive wires, such as unshielded twisted pairs (UTP) 614, which may be helically wrapped around central push rod 612, to provide data transmission. In addition, a plurality of non-conductive elements or spacers, such as monofilaments 616, may be dispersed between UTPs 614. Monofilaments 616 may be made of one more or materials, such as fiberglass, carbon fiber, braided metals, and/or other materials to provide stiffness and strength along the push-cable 610. An optical fiber, such as optical fiber 611 may optionally be disposed through the center of central push rod 612. One or more of the monofilaments 616 may optionally be replaced with fiber optic cables or other wires or cables. An optional optical fiber, such as optical fiber 615 may be disposed within the center of monofilaments 616. [000068] UTPs 614 may include four or more twisted pairs of wires with various twist rates, which may be commonly referred to as "pitch" of the twists, such as 6S.2 turns/m (green), 64.8 turns m (blue), S6.2 turns/m (orange), and 51.7 turns/m (brown). By varying the pitch, crosstalk may be reduced without affecting the characteristic impedance.

[000069] A layer of film or adhesive material, such as a tape 618, such as Neptape® or other mechanical binding elements, may be used to bind UTPs 614 and monofilaments 616 longitudinally disposed along central push rod 612. An outer insulating jacket 622, which may be made of extruded polyamide or other insulating materials, may be disposed on the external surface of push-cable 610 to provide insulation and protection against moisture or other environmental elements or contaminants. Shielding tape may be disposed underneath jacket 622 and may utilize copper or aluminum foil or tape.

[000070] FIG. 7 is a cross-section view of the Ethernet push-cable embodiment 610, taken along line 7 - 7 of FIG. 6. Spacers, such as monofilaments 616, may be alternated and distributed longitudinally around central push rod 612 and enclosed within tape 618.

[000071] Other elements may be included in push-cable 110, such as, for example, polytetraflouroethylene (TEE) tape or similar or equivalent materials, which may optionally be used to wrap central push rod 612 and/or wrap (individually) one or more UTPs 614.

[000072] An optional optical fiber, such as optical fiber 611 may be disposed through the center of central push rod 612. One or more of the monofilaments 616 may optionally be replaced with fiber optic cables or other wires or cables. For example, an optional optical fiber, such as optical fiber 615 may be disposed through the center of one or more monofilaments 616.

[000073] FIG. 8 is an enlarged fragmentary isometric view of an alternate high bandwidth push-cable embodiment, such as a Coaxial push-cable 810, illustrating details thereof. Coaxial push-cable 810 may correspond with high bandwidth push-cable 110 of Figure 1. In an exemplary embodiment, a coaxial core cable element 812 may be disposed centrally in coaxial push-cable 810 for providing high bandwidth transmission of data and other information.

[000074] Coaxial cable element 812 may include one or more conductive elements, such as an inner conductor 826, which may be made of strand and or solid copper, or silver plated copper, or copper-plated iron or steel wire, or other similar materials, and one or more insulating layers, such as a dielectric insulating core 828, which may be made of solid or foam plastic, such as solid polyethylene (PE), solid Teflon (PTFE), polyethylene foam, or other similar materials. A coax shield 830, which may be, for example, a copper braid, a silver plated copper braid, copper foil tape, or other shielding material(s) may optionally be disposed around dielectric insulating core 828. Air with spacers may optionally be used to support the inner wire. A layer of tape 818 may optionally be disposed around coaxial cable element 812 for friction modification and/or diameter adjustment.

[000075] Push-cable 810 may include a plurality of rods 816 which may be helically wrapped around coax 812. Rods 816 may be made of fiberglass or other composite material to provide flexible strength to the push-cable 810. A binding wrap 814 may be used for binding fiberglass rods 816. An optional optical fiber, such as optical fiber 81S may be disposed within one or more fiberglass rods 816. A conductive element, such as a Spectra™ gel-spun braid 820 or other conductive material, may optionally be disposed around the outer surface of binding wrap 814 to carry electrical signals within push-cable 810. An outer insulating jacket 822, which may be made of extruded polyamide or the like, may be disposed on the external surface of push-cable 810 to provide insulation and protection against moisture and other elements. Outer insulating jacket 822 may correspond with jacket 222 (FIG. 2) and jacket 422 (FIG. 4).

[000076] FIG. 9 is a cross-section view of the coaxial push-cable embodiment 810, taken along line 9 - 9 of FIG. 8. In an exemplary embodiment, coaxial cable element 812 may include one or more elements, such as inner conductor 826 embedded within dielectric insulating core 828. Various elements, such as tape 818, fiberglass rods 816, binding wrap 814, and outer insulating jacket 822 may be disposed around coaxial cable element 812. An optional optical fiber, such as optical fiber 815 may be disposed centrally through one or more fiberglass rods 816. Push-cable 810 may optionally include Spectra™ gel-spun braid 820 and coax shield 830.

[000077] Other embodiments may include combinations of coaxial and twisted pair conductors in conjunction with alternate push-cable system configurations. For example, push-cable and video push-cable system configurations as described in, for example, the following incorporated United States Patents and Patent applications may be used in conjunction with the disclosure herein in various embodiments. The incorporated patents and patent applications include co-assigned United States Patent No. 6,958,767, entitled VIDEO PIPE INSPECTION SYSTEM EMPLOYING NON-ROTATING CABLE STORAGE DRUM, issued October 25, 2005, United States Patent No. 6,862,945, entitled CAMERA GUIDE FOR VIDEO PIPE INSPECTION SYSTEM, issued March 8, 2005, United States Patent No. 6,545,704, entitled VIDEO PIPE INSPECTION DISTANCE MEASURING SYSTEM, issued April 8, 2003, United States Patent No. 5,939,679, entitled VIDEO PUSH- CABLE, issued August 17, 1999, United States Patent No. 5,808,239, entitled VIDEO PUSH-CABLE, issued September 15, 1998, United States Patent No. 5,457,288, entitled DUAL PUSH-CABLE FOR PIPE INSPECTION, issued October 10, 1995, United States Patent Application Serial No. 13 346,668, entitled PORTABLE CAMERA CONTROLLER PLATFORM FOR USE WITH PIPE INSPECTION SYSTEM, filed January 1 , 2012, United States Provisional Patent Application Serial No. 61/559,107, entitled PORTABLE PIPE INSPECTION SYSTEMS & APPARATUS, filed November 13, 2011, United States Patent Application Serial No. 13/214,208, entitled ASYMMETRIC DRAG FORCE BEARINGS FOR USE WITH PUSH-CABLE, filed August 21, 2011, United States Patent Application Serial No. 13/073,919, entitled PIPE INSPECTION SYSTEM WITH JETTER PUSH- CABLE, filed March 16, 2011, United States Patent Application Serial No. 12 766,742, entitled PIPE INSPECTION CABLE COUNTER AND OVERLAY MANAGEMENT SYSTEM, filed April 23, 2010, United States Patent Application Serial No. 12/658,939, entitled SNAP ON PIPE GUIDE, filed February 16, 2010, United States Patent Application Serial No. 12/704,808, entitled PIPE INSPECTION SYSTEM WITH REPLACEABLE CABLE STORAGE DRUM, filed February 12, 2010, United States Patent Application Serial No. 12/399,859, entitled PIPE INSPECTION SYSTEM WITH SELECTIVE IMAGE CAPTURE, filed March 6, 2009, United States Patent Application Serial No. 12/371,540, entitled PUSH-CABLES FOR PIPE INSPECTION SYSTEM, filed February 13, 2009, United States Patent Application Serial No. 11/928,818, entitled PIPE MAPPING SYSTEM, filed October 30, 2007, United States Patent Application Serial No. 11 774,462, filed Jury 6, 2007, United States Patent Application Serial No. 11/679,092, entitled LIGHT WEIGHT SEWER CABLE, filed February 26, 2007. The content of each of these applications is incorporated by reference herein in its entirety.

[000078] For example, in some embodiments a cable reel and cable counter as described in, for example, United States Patent Application Serial No. 12/766,742 may be used along with a high speed push-cable in a video inspection system Likewise, a camera head and camera control unit as described in, for example, United States Patent Application Serial No. 12 399,859 may be used in a video inspection system. A cable reel or drum as described in, for example, United States Patent Application Serial No. 12 704,808 may be used to store a high speed push-cable in a video inspection system and may include wired or wireless transmission modules, such as Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, Ethernet, or other wired or wireless transmission mechanisms to send and/or receive video signals and other data or information.

[00007!!] Other combinations of the various aspects, elements, components, features, and/or functions described previously herein may be combined in various configurations. In addition, details regarding additional aspects, elements, components, features, functions, apparatus, and/or methods which may be used in conjunction with the embodiments described previously herein in various implementations are described in the co- assigned incorporated applications of the assignee of the instant application.

[000080] Those of skill in the art would understand that information and signals, such as analog or video signals, data signals, audio signals, or other information signals may be represented using any of a variety of different technologies and techniques. For example, data, instructions, commands, information, signals, bits, symbols, and chips that may be referenced throughout the above description may be represented by voltages, currents, electromagnetic waves, magnetic fields or particles, optical fields or particles, or any combination thereof.

[000081] The various illustrative logical blocks, modules, and circuits described in connection with the embodiments disclosed herein may be implemented or performed with a general purpose processor, a digital signal processor (DSP), an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC), a field programmable gate array (FPGA) or other programmable logic device, discrete gate or transistor logic, discrete hardware components, or any combination thereof designed to perform the functions described herein. A general purpose processor may be a microprocessor, but in the alternative, the processor may be any conventional processor, controller, microcontroller, or state machine. A processor may also be implemented as a combination of computing devices, e.g., a combination of a DSP and a microprocessor, a plurality of microprocessors, one or more microprocessors in conjunction with a DSP core, or any other such configuration. In some implementations, processors may be processors, such as communication processors, specifically designed for implementing functionality in communication devices or other mobile or portable devices.

[000082] The steps or stages of a method, process or algorithm described in connection with the embodiments disclosed herein may be embodied directly in hardware, in a software module executed by a processor, or in a combination of the two. A software module may reside in RAM memory, flash memory, ROM memory, EPROM memory, EEPROM memory, registers, hard disk, a removable disk, a CD-ROM, or any other form of storage medium known in the art. An exemplary storage medium is coupled to the processor such that the processor can read information from, and write information to, the storage medium In the alternative, the storage medium may be integral to the processor. The processor and the storage medium may reside in an ASIC. The ASIC may reside in a user terminal In the alternative, the processor and the storage medium may reside as discrete components in a user terminaL

[000083] The scope of the present invention is not intended to be limited to the aspects shown and described previously herein, but should be accorded the full scope consistent with the language of the claims and their equivalents, wherein reference to an element in the singular is not intended to mean "one and only one" unless specifically so stated, but rather "one or more." Unless specifically stated otherwise, the term "some" refers to one or more. A phrase referring to "at least one of a list of items refers to any combination of those items, including single members. As an example, "at least one of: a, b, or c" is intended to cover: a; b; c; a and b; a and c; b and c; and a, b and c.

[000084] The previous description of the disclosed aspects is provided to enable any person skilled in the art to make or use embodiments of the present invention. Various modifications to these aspects will be readily apparent to those skilled in the art, and the generic principles defined herein may be applied to other aspects without departing from the spirit or scope of the disclosure. Thus, the presently claimed invention is not intended to be limited to the aspects shown herein but is to be accorded the widest scope consistent with the appended claims and their equivalents.

Claims

1. A video push-cable, comprising:

a push rod; and

a cable circuit disposed about the push rod; wherein the cable circuit is configured as an Ethernet cable circuit.

2. The push-cable of Claim 1, wherein the push rod is disposed in substantially the center of the push-cable.

3. The push-cable of Claim 1, wherein the push rod comprises a resilient composite material.

4. The push-cable of Claim 1, wherein the cable circuit comprises a plurality of conductive wires grouped in twisted pairs.

5. The push-cable of Claim 4, wherein the twisted pairs are helically would around the push rod.

6. The push-cable of Claim 1, wherein the cable circuit comprises four or more twisted pairs.

7. The push-cable of Claim 6, wherein ones of the four or more twisted pairs have two or more twist rates to reduce crosstalk.

8. The push-cable of Claim 7, wherein the two or more twist rates are selected so as not to affect the characteristic impedance.

9. The push-cable of Claim 1, further comprising one or more non-conductive elements or spacers are disposed about the push rod.

10. The push-cable of Claim 9, wherein the non-conductive elements are monofilaments.

11. The push-cable of Claim 10, further comprising a film binding the cable circuit and monofilaments.

12. The push-cable of Claim 1, further comprising one or more optical fiber cables disposed about or within the push rod.

13. The push-cable of Claim 1, further comprising a wrap around the push rod.

14. The push-cable of Claim 13, wherein the wrap comprises a TFE or PTFE material.

15. The push-cable of Claim 1, further comprising a wrap around the cable circuit.

16. The push-cable of Claim IS, wherein the wrap comprises a TFE or PTFE material.

17. The push-cable of Claim 10, wherein the monofilaments are alternated and distributed longitudinally around the push rod.

18. A coaxial push-cable, comprising:

a coaxial core cable element; and

a plurality of rods disposed about the coaxial core cable element.

19. The push-cable of Claim 18, wherein the coaxial core cable element comprises an inner conductor, a dielectric core, and a coaxial shield.

20. The push-cable of Claim 18, wherein the rods are helically wound about the coaxial core element.

21. The push-cable of Claim 18, further comprising a binding wrap and a braid disposed around the binding wrap to carry electrical signals.

22. The push-cable of Claim 18, further comprising an outer insulating jacket.

23. The push-cable of Claim 18, wherein the rods comprising a composite material.

24. The push-cable of Claim 23, wherein the composite material comprises fiberglass.

25. The push-cable of Claim 24, further comprising a binding wrap binding the fiberglass rods.

26. The push-cable of Claim 25, further comprising a conductive material disposed around an outer surface of the binding wrap.

27. A video inspection system, comprising:

a camera head; and

a push-cable coupled to the camera head, the push-cable comprising:

a push rod; and

28. The video inspection system of Claim 27, further including a push-cable reel for storing the push-cable.

29. The video inspection system of Claim 27, further including a camera control unit (CCU) configured to control camera head operation and or receive video or data from the camera head.

30. The video inspection system of Claim 27, further including a wireless transmission module configured to wirelessly transmit video signals and/or data.

31. The video inspection system of Claim 30, wherein the wireless transmission module includes a Wi-Fi module or other wireless local area network (WLAN) or wide area network (WAN) module.

32. The video inspection system of Claim 30, wherein the wireless transmission module includes a Bluetooth or other short range wireless transmission module.

33. The video inspection system of Claim 30, wherein the wireless transmission module includes a cellular module for data transmission.

34. The vide inspection system of Claim 29, wherein the CCU is integral with a push- cable reeL

35. The video inspection system of Claim 27, further including a transmitter for providing a current signal to a buried utility or sonde so as to generate a magnetic field for sensing by a buried object locator.

36. A video inspection system, comprising:

a camera head; and

a push-cable including:

a coaxial core cable element; and

a plurality of rods disposed about the coaxial core cable element.

37. The video inspection system of Claim 36, further including a push reeL

38. The video inspection system of Claim 36, further including a push-cable reel for storing the push-cable.

39. The video inspection system of Claim 36, further including a camera control unit (CCU) configured to control camera head operation and/or receive video or data from the camera head.

40. The video inspection system of Claim 36, further including a wireless transmission module configured to wirelessly transmit video signals and/or data.

41. The video inspection system of Claim 40, wherein the wireless transmission module includes a Wi-Fi module or other wireless local area network (WLAN) or wide area network (WAN) module.

42. The video inspection system of Claim 40, wherein the wireless transmission module includes a Bluetooth or other short range wireless transmission module.

43. The video inspection system of Claim 40, wherein the wireless transmission module includes a cellular module for data transmission.

44. The video inspection system of Claim 39, wherein the CCU is integral with a push- cable reel.

45. The video inspection system of Claim 36, further including a transmitter for providing a current signal to a buried utility or sonde so as to generate a magnetic field for sensing by a buried object locator.

46. An Ethernet video push-cable, comprising:

a central push rod; and

an Ethernet cable circuit disposed about the push rod.

47. The push-cable of Claim 46, further comprising an optical fiber.

48. The push-cable of Claim 46, further comprising one or more twisted pairs.

49. The push-cable of Claim 46, further comprising one or more spacers.

50. The push-cable of Claim 46, wherein the spacers are monofilaments disposed adjacent to or between the one or more twisted pairs.

51. The push-cable of Claim 47, wherein the optical fiber is disposed within the center of one of the monofilaments.

52. The push-cable of Claim 48, wherein the one or more twisted pairs are helically wrapped around the push rod.

53. The push-cable of Claim 47, wherein the optical fiber is disposed on or within the central push rod.

54. The push-cable of Claim 48, wherein the one or more twisted pairs includes four or more twisted pairs.

55. The push-cable of Claim 54, wherein ones of the four or more twisted pairs have different twist rates or pitch.

56. The push-cable of Claim 33, wherein the rod comprises Kevlar or aramid fibers.

57. A high bandwidth push-cable, comprising:

a coaxial core element including one or more conductive elements;

a coaxial shield;

a plurality of rods;

an outer insulating jacket; and

an optical fiber.

58. The push-cable of Claim 57 wherein the optical fiber is disposed within one of the rods.

59. The push-cable of Claim 57, further comprising a binding wrap secured about the rods.

60. The push-cable of Claim 57, wherein the rods are fiberglass rods or rods of other composite materials.

61. The push-cable of Claim 60, wherein the rods comprise Kevlar or aramid fibers.

62. The push-cable of Claim 57, wherein the rods are helically wrapped about the coaxial core element.

63. The push-cable of Claim 59, further comprising a conductive element disposed about an outer surface of the binding wrap to carry electrical signals.

64. The push-cable of Claim 63, wherein the conductive element comprises a gel-spun polyethylene fiber braid.