Indirect vision inspection involves an indirect view or indirect lighting, usually using mirrors or lenses. In
remote visual inspection, human eyes are replaced by cameras mounted on remote tools, primarily for safety purposes.
Remote inspection tools with cameras allow for men to be kept on the ground and out of No Entry assets, such as confined or hard-to-reach spaces. Remote tools also speed up visual inspection and make it more cost-effective. Continuous visual inspection increases the likelihood of discovering damage before it becomes a real problem, making assets safer and more profitable.
In order to ensure that indirect vision in remote inspections is equivalent to the direct vision in manned inspections, camera lens requirements and inspection procedures are standardised and certified.
Camera specifications and lighting should be carefully configured according to asset type, environment conditions and inspection goals. Indirect vision can be misleading and inspection results misinterpreted if this configuration is improperly carried out. For example, when looking at cracks, improper calculation of distance to the ocular point can alter the perceived damage size.
Light can also affect inspection results if the position of the ocular point relative to the light source and the light conditions outdoors are not taken into account. Cloudy conditions, for example, can affect light reflection and visibility. Indoor light type and position can drastically alter the appearance and colour of damage. Colour is particularly important when judging the severity of corrosion.
Standardisation, in turn, is crucial for analysing results, particularly in repeat inspections. Inspection procedures should be standardised so that all images taken can be compared and results of damage progression properly analysed.
Applus+ RVIS provides remote visual
inspection services for
quality assurance and asset
integrity management. It combines inspection expertise with remote technology, artificial intelligence and multiple sensors to make inspections safer. Applus+ RVIS tailors remote visual solutions according to client assets and inspection needs, targeting cost-effective remote visual inspection solutions that allow maximum safety and minimum downtime.