Patent ID: 8844387
Filing Date: 2014-09-30
Classification: G01M

Abstract:
1. An inspection sled for inspecting a tensioned cable in an underwater environment, comprising: a first and second end defining a longitudinal axis, wherein each of the first and second ends respectively comprises a collar, each collar having a respective aperture arranged to receive a sample cable oriented lengthwise in accordance with the longitudinal axis, wherein each collar respectively comprises a respective first and second rotational member, the respective first and second rotational member of each respective collar each having an axis of rotation that is different from any other rotational member that has a rotational portion disposed within the respective collar; a swing arm respectively associated with each collar and is arranged to open to permit insertion of the sample cable within the respective collar and arranged to close to slidably journal the sample cable, wherein the respective swing arm is arranged with a proximal portion arranged to be driven by a respective actuator and is arranged with a distal portion disposed with a respective third rotational member, wherein the respective third rotational member is at least partially inserted within the respective aperture of the respective collar when the respective swing arm is closed, wherein each actuator comprises a respective piston for actuating each respective swing arm, and wherein each piston is arranged to be hydraulically actuated by a hydraulic force supplied external to the inspection sled; and a chassis arranged to couple the first end to the second end, wherein the chassis comprises at least one inspection station that includes a sensor that is arranged to transmit a signal in response to inspecting the sample cable.