Technological Evolution and Product Forms
Imaging and intelligence: Evolving from high definition to AI recognition, it can automatically label defects such as cracks, corrosion and blockages and generate structured reports; the miniaturization trend is significant, with camera probes with a diameter of <5 cm emerging to adapt to narrow pipe diameters; multi-function integration has become mainstream, with temperature/gas and other sensor modules added besides video to enhance the operation capability of a single device.
In terms of transmission and battery life: Wi-Fi/Bluetooth wireless connection and models with >8 hours of long battery life are accelerating popularization, improving on-site mobility and efficiency.
Wired vs. Wireless: Two forms have coexisted in the market for a long time - wired solutions excel in stability and long-distance transmission, suitable for long-distance, high-bandwidth and critical working conditions; wireless solutions feature faster deployment and high flexibility, suitable for short-distance, rapid inspection and multi-point coverage. With the optimization of computing power and codec technology, the proportion of wirelessization continues to rise, but in scenarios with extremely high reliability requirements such as oil and gas/long-distance transportation, wired solutions still dominate.Competitive Landscape and Representative Enterprises
Globally, manufacturers such as Envirosight (USA), ROSEN Group (Germany), and KENEKSS (Japan) have advantages in R&D, reliability and service networks, and deeply cultivate the high-end municipal and energy industry markets. Domestically, Hikvision and Dahua Technology have formed strong brands and channel coverage based on their accumulation in image processing, supply chain and engineering delivery, and are accelerating product iteration and industry penetration through AI and IoT capabilities.
Key Trends in the Next Three to Five Years
Intelligence and automation: Continuous deepening in AI defect recognition, path planning, automatic reporting and other links to shorten the inspection-diagnosis-decision-making closed loop, promoting the transition from "human control" to "human-machine collaboration/partial autonomy".
Networking and platformization: Device cloud migration, remote collaboration, integration of asset ledgers/defect databases and work order closed loops support city-level pipe network digital twins and full-life-cycle management.Miniaturization and specialization: Smaller diameter probes, multi-sensor fusion (acoustic/ultrasonic/laser), and protection and material technologies adapted to high-temperature/high-humidity/toxic environments will become the focus of differentiated competition.
