| Abstract: | An apparatus and method for inspecting a plurality of containers are
provided. Each container has an outer surface for housing at least one
material therein. The techniques provided involve at least one inspection
vehicle and at least one detector. Each inspection vehicle has a
plurality of wheels for movably positioning about the plurality of
containers. The wheels may have at least one magnet for selectively
adhering to the outer surface of at least one of the containers whereby
the inspection vehicle traverses the container(s). The detector is
positionable proximate at least one of the containers. The detector may
be deployable from the inspection vehicle to a position adjacent the
container(s). The detector has at least one sensor for measuring at least
one characteristic of the plurality of containers. At least one base
station may be provided for communicating with the inspection vehicle(s)
and/or detector(s). |