Three-dimensional Mapping of Pipeline from Inside Images Using Earthworm Robot Equipped with Camera

Abstract

In this paper, we propose a method to generate a 3D map in the narrow pipeline from inside images captured from a camera mounted on earthworm robot. Pipes that have reached the end of their useful life cause leaks and pits in the road; thus, it is necessary to inspect the inside of the pipe. In order to inspect the inside of the pipe, images in the pipeline are converted to development images and motion estimation of the camera is performed using the optical flow. Finally, the development images are connected to generate a 3D map.