Pipeline inspection

Abstract

The subject matter of the present specification may be embodied as a method and other objects, the method comprising: providing a first pipe having a first front end and a first rear end, providing a second pipe having a second front end and a second rear end, abutting at least a portion of the second front end with at least a portion of the first rear end to define a pipe abutment area, the pipe abutment area including a portion of the first pipe measured longitudinally from the first rear end and a portion of the second pipe measured longitudinally from the second front end, conveying the first and second pipes through an inspection device, inspecting a first portion of the pipe abutment area and a second portion of the pipe abutment area by the inspection device, and providing defect data describing defects detected in the first portion and the second portion.

Description

[0001] Priority declaration

[0002] This application claims priority to U.S. Patent Application No. 15 / 702,389, filed on September 12, 2017, the entire contents of which are hereby incorporated by reference. Technical Field

[0003] The present description relates generally to nondestructive testing of pipeline segments and, more particularly, to electromagnetic inspection of abutment areas of adjacent pipeline segments. Background Art

[0004] Electromagnetic type tests are used to analyze defects in tubes and pipes. Such tests are used for inspection during manufacturing (e.g., quality control) and / or during receipt by a company or customer (e.g., incoming material inspection). This type of test has a relatively high sensitivity and can be automated, allowing for automatic classification of inspected pipes (e.g., accept / reject, pass / fail, good / bad) and increased yield.

[0005] Electromagnetic type testing allows the inspection of the wall of a pipe to detect and locate defects, whether internal or external, by bringing an electromagnetic probe into contact with the object under test. This test is standardized in many countries, and the requirements for this test are listed in the standards provided by the American Petroleum Institute (API) (USA), the German Institute for Standardization (Deutsches Institut für Normung) (DIN) (Germany) and the National Standard (Gosudarstvennyy Standart) (GOST) (Russia). The basic standard parameters are described by the international standard ISO9402.

[0006] Many companies manufacture various instruments suitable for electromagnetic testing, such as the Dr. Foerster Institute of Germany and its defect detector "Rotomat / Transomat", the defect detector "Amalog / Sonoscope" from the American company "Tuboscope / National Oilwell Varco", and the defect detector VMD-30N from MSIA of Russia. Summary of the invention

[0007] Generally, this document describes nondestructive testing of pipeline segments, and more particularly describes electromagnetic inspection of abutment areas of adjacent pipeline segments.

[0008] In a first aspect, a pipeline inspection method includes: providing a first pipeline segment having a first pipeline body, a first front end, and a first tail end; providing a second pipeline segment having a second pipeline body, a second front end, and a second tail end; abutting at least a portion of the second front end with at least a portion of the first tail end to define a pipeline abutment area, the pipeline abutment area including a portion of the first pipeline segment that is 300 mm longitudinally measured longitudinally from the first tail end and a portion of the second pipeline segment that is 300 mm longitudinally measured longitudinally from the second front end; longitudinally conveying the first pipeline segment and the second pipeline segment at a first speed relative to an inspection device configured to perform electromagnetic inspection; inspecting a first portion of the pipeline abutment area and a second portion of the pipeline abutment area by the inspection device as the first pipeline segment and the second pipeline segment are conveyed relative to the inspection device; and providing defect data based on the inspection, the defect data describing a defect detected by the inspection device in at least one of the first portion and the second portion of the pipeline abutment area.

[0009] Various embodiments include some, all, or none of the following features. Bringing the second leading end into contact with the first trailing end to define a pipe abutment region may include longitudinally conveying the first pipe segment at a first speed, longitudinally conveying the second pipe segment at a second speed faster than the first speed, bringing the second leading end into contact with the first trailing end to define a pipe abutment region, and longitudinally conveying the first pipe segment and the second pipe segment such that contact between the first trailing end and the second leading end is maintained. The method may include, after inspecting the pipe abutment region, longitudinally conveying the first pipe segment at a third speed faster than the second speed. The method may include: providing a third pipe segment having a third pipe body, a third front end, and a third rear end; abutting at least a portion of the third front end with at least a portion of the second rear end to define a second pipe abutment area, the second pipe abutment area including a portion of the second pipe segment measured longitudinally from the second rear end at a longitudinal distance of 300 mm and a portion of the third pipe segment measured longitudinally from the third front end at a longitudinal distance of 300 mm; conveying the second pipe segment and the third pipe segment longitudinally at a first speed relative to an inspection device; inspecting the second pipe abutment area by the inspection device as the second pipe segment and the third pipe segment are conveyed relative to the inspection device; and providing defect data based on the inspection, the defect data describing a defect detected by the inspection device in the second pipe abutment area. The method may include: inspecting a portion of the first pipe body by the inspection device as the first pipe segment is conveyed relative to the inspection device, and inspecting a portion of the second pipe body by the inspection device as the second pipe segment is conveyed relative to the inspection device. The inspection may include: generating a magnetic field near the axial pipe segment, detecting an interaction of the magnetic field with the axial pipe segment, and detecting a change in the interaction at the axial pipe segment. The method may include determining that the change exceeds a predetermined defect threshold, identifying one of the first pipe segment or the second pipe segment as an axial pipe segment with a causing change as a defective pipe segment, and separating the defective pipe segment from other pipe segments that are not identified as defective pipe segments, and wherein the axial pipe segment is less than 300 mm from the first tail end or the second front end. The method may include determining that the change exceeds a predetermined defect threshold, receiving position information of at least one of the first pipe segment or the second pipe segment, identifying one of the first pipe segment or the second pipe segment as an axial pipe segment with a causing change as a defective pipe segment, and identifying an identified position of the axial pipe segment along the defective pipe segment based on the position information, and providing defect information identifying the defective pipe segment and the identified position of the axial pipe segment, at which the change exceeds the predetermined defect threshold, wherein the identified position is in a pipe abutment area of ​​the first pipe segment and the second pipe segment.The method may also include: receiving position information of the first pipe segment and the second pipe segment; determining that the change exceeds a predetermined abutment threshold; based on the position information, identifying an identification position of the axial pipe segment, at which the change exceeds the predetermined abutment threshold; providing the identification position as first position information representing the position of the first tail end; and providing the identification position as second position information representing the position of the second front end. The method may also include: receiving at least one of the first position information and the second position information by a controller, and controlling a process based on at least one of the first position information and the second position information by the controller after inspecting the pipe abutment area. The process may be one of the following: a motion control process, a longitudinal electromagnetic longitudinal defect inspection process, an ultrasonic pipe thickness inspection process, a transverse defect inspection process, or a machine vision-based inspection process. Inspecting the first portion of the pipe abutment area may include: inspecting a portion of the first pipe segment with a longitudinal distance of 3 mm to 300 mm measured longitudinally from the first tail end, and inspecting the second portion of the abutment area includes: inspecting a portion of the second pipe segment with a longitudinal distance of 3 mm to 300 mm measured longitudinally from the second front end.

[0010] In a second aspect, a computer program stored in a computer-readable storage device includes instructions that, when executed by a user device, cause the user device to perform an electromagnetic inspection operation on a first pipeline segment and a second pipeline segment that are at least partially abutted, wherein the first pipeline segment has a first pipeline body, a first front end and a first tail end, and the second pipeline segment with the second pipeline body has a second front end and a second tail end, the inspection operation including: receiving a pipeline defect signal from an electromagnetic pipeline inspection device; receiving a pipeline position signal from a pipeline position positioning device; based on the received pipeline defect signal, the received pipeline position signal and a predetermined pipeline defect threshold, detecting a pipeline defect position in an abutment area, the abutment area including a portion of the first pipeline segment with a longitudinal distance of 300 mm measured longitudinally from the first tail end and a portion of the second pipeline segment with a longitudinal distance of 300 mm measured longitudinally from the second front end; identifying a defective pipeline segment based on the pipeline defect position; and providing an identification of the defective pipeline segment.

[0011] Various embodiments may include some, all, or none of the following features. The operation may include detecting a pipe abutment position based on a received pipe defect signal, a received pipe position signal, and a predetermined pipe abutment threshold, wherein the predetermined pipe abutment threshold is different from the predetermined pipe defect threshold, and providing a pipe end position signal based on the pipe abutment position, the pipe abutment position indicating the position of the abutment between the leading end of the pipe segment and the trailing end of the pipe segment. The operation may include providing a conveyor control signal that causes a first segment of the pipe conveyor to operate at a first speed, and providing a conveyor signal that causes a second segment of the pipe conveyor (operationally downstream of the first segment of the pipe conveyor) to operate at a second speed that is slower than the first speed, wherein the pipe inspection device is arranged along the second segment of the pipe conveyor. The operation may include determining that a first pipe segment on the first segment of the pipe conveyor has abutted a second pipe segment on the second segment of the pipe conveyor based on the pipe position signal, and providing a second conveyor control signal that causes the first segment of the pipe conveyor to operate at approximately the second speed. Detecting a pipeline defect location based on a received pipeline defect signal, a received pipeline location signal, and a predetermined defect threshold may include: receiving location information of at least one of a first pipeline segment having a tail end and a second pipeline segment having a front end longitudinally abutting the tail end, and determining that a change in the pipeline defect signal exceeds a predetermined pipeline defect threshold, wherein the change is detected at less than 300 mm from the first tail end or the second front end, and wherein identifying a defective pipeline segment based on the pipeline defect location further includes: identifying one of the first pipeline segment or the second pipeline segment as causing the change. Detecting a pipeline abutment location may include: receiving location information of at least one of a first pipeline segment having a tail end and a second pipeline segment having a front end at least partially longitudinally abutting the tail end, determining that a change in the pipeline defect signal exceeds a predetermined pipeline abutment threshold, wherein the change is detected at less than about 3 mm from the first tail end or the second front end, and based on the location information, identifying an identified location at which the change exceeds the predetermined abutment threshold, and wherein providing a pipeline end location signal further includes providing the identified location as the pipeline end location.

[0012] In a third aspect, a system for pipeline inspection comprises: an electromagnetic pipeline inspection device, a pipeline position locating device, and a controller, the controller having a defect signal input port, a position input port, and a processor, the defect signal input port being configured to receive a pipeline defect signal from the pipeline inspection device, the position input port being configured to receive a pipeline position signal from the pipeline position locating device, the processor being configured to detect a pipeline defect position based on the pipeline defect signal, the pipeline position signal, and a predetermined pipeline defect threshold, and to provide the pipeline defect position as a pipeline defect position signal at a first output port, wherein the pipeline defect position signal identifies a pipeline segment having a pipeline defect, wherein the pipeline defect position is in an abutment area, the abutment area comprising a portion of the first pipeline segment having a longitudinal distance of 300 mm measured longitudinally from the first tail end and a second pipeline segment having a longitudinal distance of 300 mm measured longitudinally from the second front end (which at least partially abuts the first tail end).

[0013] Various embodiments may include some, all, or none of the following features. The processor may be configured to detect a pipe abutment position based on a pipe defect signal, a pipe position signal, and a predetermined pipe abutment threshold, and provide a pipe end position signal at a second output port, wherein the pipe end position signal identifies the position of at least one of a leading end of a pipe segment and a trailing end of a pipe segment. The system may include a conveyor configured to convey a pipe segment longitudinally, the conveyor including a first motor and a second motor, the first motor configured to convey the pipe segment along an upstream segment of the conveyor at a first speed, the second motor configured to convey the pipe segment along a downstream segment of the conveyor at a second speed slower than the first speed. At least one of the first motor and the second motor may be configured to convey the pipe segment based on a speed signal received from a motor control output port of the controller, and wherein the processor may be further configured to provide a speed signal such that the second speed is less than the first speed. The conveyor may include a third motor configured to convey the pipe segment along an output segment of the conveyor at a third speed faster than the second speed.

[0014] The systems and techniques described herein may provide one or more of the following advantages. First, the system may improve the capabilities of existing pipeline inspection equipment. Second, the system may convert a discrete or batch inspection process into a process that mimics a continuous process. Third, the system may extend the useful life of pipeline inspection equipment by reducing wear. Fourth, the system may improve the efficiency of the pipeline inspection process by enabling the automated inspection process to inspect a relatively larger portion of a pipeline segment than has been previously accomplished.

[0015] The details of one or more implementations are set forth in the accompanying drawings and the description below. Other features and advantages will be apparent from the description and drawings, and from the claims. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0016] 1A is an elevated view of an example of a prior art pipeline inspection system having a blind spot near the end of the pipeline being inspected.

[0017] 1B is a conceptual side view of an exemplary magnetic flux in a prior art pipeline inspection system.

[0018] Figure 2A is an elevated view of an exemplary pipeline inspection system with abutted pipeline segments.

[0019] Figure 2B is a conceptual side view of an example magnetic flux in an example pipeline inspection system with abutting pipeline segments.

[0020] Figure 3A-3E is a block diagram of an exemplary pipeline inspection system and pipeline segments at various stages of inspection.

[0021] Figure 4 A simplified diagram showing an example velocity profile for a pipeline segment in a pipeline inspection system.

[0022] Figure 5A and Figure 5B is a block diagram of an exemplary pipeline inspection system and post-inspection pipeline separation system.

[0023] Figure 6 is a flow chart illustrating one example of a process for inspecting a pipeline segment.

[0024] Figure 7 is a schematic diagram of an example of a general-purpose computer system. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0025] Systems and techniques for performing nondestructive testing of pipeline segments are described herein. In general, the capabilities of existing electromagnetic pipeline inspection systems are limited in their ability to inspect near the ends of discrete pipeline segments. As will be explained below, the ability of these systems to inspect near the ends of a pipeline can be improved by arranging two or more discrete pipeline segments so that the pipeline segments are in end-to-end contact during inspection.

[0026] FIG. 1A is an elevated view of one example of a prior art pipeline inspection system 10 .

[0027] In the pipeline inspection system 10, the conveyor 20 moves the first pipeline segment 30a and the second pipeline segment 30b through the inspection device 40 (e.g., a magnetic type non-destructive testing device). The inspection device 40 is configured to inspect the axial segments 50 of the pipeline segments 30a and 30b as they pass through the inspection area 52. The length of the pipeline segments (such as the pipeline segments 30a and 30b) is about 6m to 15m or longer, and the diameter ranges from about 50mm to 300mm, or more specifically, 114mm to 244mm.

[0028] In some embodiments, the inspection device 40 can use the principle of dispersed electromagnetic flow (e.g., electromagnetic inspection) to detect internal and external defects in the pipeline segment. With the help of an adjustable DC current, the pipeline segment 30a is magnetized to its longitudinal axis. Transverse defects or discontinuities in the pipeline segment 30a generate dispersed electromagnetic flows. The sensor probe 41 contacts the pipeline, and the induction coil contained in the sensor probe 41 detects these flows. The signal captured by the probe 41 is processed and analyzed to determine the type of defect.

[0029] In some embodiments, the inspection device 40 can be a rotating non-destructive testing device that uses electromagnetic principles to detect the presence of longitudinal discontinuities in pipeline segments. Such examples also use the principle of dispersed flow. For example, the pipeline segment 30a can be magnetized transversely to the axis of the pipeline segment 30a by an alternating magnetic field. Due to the skin effect, it is concentrated around the circumference of the pipeline, so the permeability is very low, and both the outer surface and the inner surface are magnetically saturated. There is no need to contact the pipeline segment 30a, and this magnetization occurs through two alternating magnetic yokes, which are assembled on the arm with the detection coil. The assembly is mounted on a rotating head and rotates around the pipeline to perform the inspection. Discontinuities and defects on the pipe produce dispersed flows that can be captured by the detection coil and converted into signals that are processed and analyzed to identify the nature of the defects.

[0030] When used to inspect a pipe segment, such an inspection device has a blind zone 60 (e.g., a dead zone) at an end portion of the pipe segment in which the pipe cannot be accurately inspected. In some cases, for an inspection device configured to inspect a pipe segment having a length of 6 m to 15 m or more and / or a diameter ranging from about 50 mm to 300 mm, the blind zone 60 may be about 300 mm to 500 mm long at each end of the pipe segment.

[0031] The blind spot phenomenon is caused by the inability of the device to ensure a stable magnetic field in the area and the inability of the probe to properly contact the main body of the pipeline. FIG. 1B is a conceptual side view of an exemplary magnetic flux in the pipeline inspection system 10. In the example shown, a pipeline segment 30a is shown, which has an end 31 entering the inspection area 52. As part of the inspection process, a magnetic field 70a is formed near the inspection area 52, and the metal component of the pipeline segment 30a interacts with the magnetic field 70a. However, the end 31 causes instability in the magnetic field 70a, which may cause the reading of the inspection device 40 near the end 31 to be unreliable or unusable, thereby forming a blind spot 60. In other examples, the probe of the inspection device 40 may be opened before the pipeline segment 30a enters. The pipeline segment 30a may enter the inspection device at a high speed, but, just when the probe 41 contacts the surface of the pipeline segment, the blind spot 60 at the front end of the pipeline segment has passed the probe 41, so the segment of the pipeline in the blind spot 60 may not be inspected. In other examples, the probe 41 may be initially positioned not to be in contact with or close to the pipe segment 30a (e.g., to prevent longitudinal collision with the front end of the pipe segment 30a), and then the probe 41 may be brought into contact with or close to the pipe segment 30a after the front end has passed. However, some time is required to reposition the probe 41, which allows a certain length of the pipe segment 30a (e.g., the blind spot 60) to pass before sensing can begin. In yet another example, the probe 41 may be configured to withstand a collision with the front end of the pipe segment 30a, however, such a collision may cause the probe 41 to bounce and / or vibrate (e.g., oscillate). The sensing capability of the probe 41 is reduced until these vibrations are damped, and the amount of time required for such damping may allow the blind spot 60 to pass.

[0032] Figure 2A 2 is an elevated view of an exemplary pipeline inspection system 200 having abutted pipeline segments. In the pipeline inspection system 200, a conveyor 220a moves a first pipeline segment 230a through an inspection device 40 (e.g., a magnetic type non-destructive testing device) and a conveyor 220b moves a second pipeline segment 230b through the inspection device 40. Pipe segment 230a has a pipeline body 261a extending between a front end 232a and a rear end 234a. A blind zone 260a extends longitudinally inward from the front end 232a, and a blind zone 260b extends longitudinally inward from the rear end 234a. Pipe segment 230b has a pipeline body 261a extending between a front end 232b and a rear end 234b. A blind zone 260c extends longitudinally inward from the front end 232b, and a blind zone 260d extends longitudinally inward from the rear end 234b.

[0033] The inspection device 40 is configured to inspect the axial segments 250 of the pipeline segments 230a and 230b as they pass through the inspection region 252. The pipeline position locating device 222a (e.g., encoder, broken beam detector, proximity sensor) is configured to sense the position of the pipeline segment when the pipeline segment leaves the inspection region 252, and the pipeline position locating device 222b is configured to sense the position of the pipeline segment when the pipeline segment enters the inspection region 252. The pipeline segments, such as the pipeline segments 230a and 230b, have a length of about 6m to 15m or more and a diameter ranging from about 50mm to 300mm, or more specifically, 114mm to 244mm.

[0034] Controller 202 includes input port 203 configured to receive signals from pipe locating devices 222a and 222b and provide conveyor control signals at output port 204 configured to communicate with conveyors 220a and 220b. Controller 202 can control the speed of conveyor 220a independently of the speed of conveyor 220b.

[0035] Conveyor 220a is controlled to convey the pipe segments at a relatively slower speed than conveyor 220b. Thus, in the example shown, pipe segment 230a is conveyed longitudinally at a slower speed than pipe segment 230b. Pipe segment 230b has caught up with pipe segment 230a, and leading end 232b abuts trailing end 234a (e.g., physically contacts at least a portion of trailing end 234a) to define abutment 236. The process of abutting the pipe segments will be described in detail in the following example. Figure 3A-3E is discussed further in the description of .

[0036] As the pipe segments 230a and 230b are abutted together, the blind areas 260b and 260c define the abutment area 261. The inspection device 40 can accurately inspect the pipe segments 230a and 230b within the abutment area 261. In some embodiments, for a single pipe segment having a length of about 6m to 15m or more and / or a diameter ranging from about 50mm to 300mm (or more specifically about 114mm to 244mm), the blind areas 260b and 260c can be reduced from a range of about 300mm to 500mm inward from the tail end 232a and the front end 234b (e.g., as shown in Figures 1A-1B) to about 3mm on each side of the abutment 236 of the pipe segments for abutment.

[0037] This improved performance, down to approximately 3 mm, is attributed to the abutment 236 , the reasons for which may depend on the configuration of the inspection apparatus 40 and the sensor probe 41 . Figure 2B1B is a conceptual side view of an exemplary magnetic flux in a pipeline inspection system 200. In the illustrated example, a pipeline segment 230a is shown with its end 231a abutting a pipeline segment 230b at an end 231b in an inspection region 52. As part of the inspection process, a magnetic field 70b is formed in the vicinity of the inspection region 52, and the metallic components of the pipeline segments 230a and 230b interact with the magnetic field 70b. Because the ends 231a and 231b are abutted, the magnetic flux can pass between the pipeline segments 230a and 230b with greater stability (e.g., compared to the un-abutted end 31 of FIG. 1B). The increased stability in the magnetic field 70b improves the ability of the inspection device 40 to provide more reliable, accurate, and / or usable measurements near the ends 231a and 231b, thereby reducing the blind zone 60 or allowing inspections to be performed within a larger portion of the blind zone 60. For example, with pipe segments 230a and 230b in end-to-end abutment contact, the magnetic field in the region (generated by the machine) is stable and has the same characteristics as the magnetic field at the pipe body, and with pipe segments 230a and 230b in end-to-end abutment contact, front end 232b does not physically present a harsh front edge that collides with probe 41. In this way, probe 41 does not need to be retracted from pipe segment 230a (e.g., thereby forming a portion of blind zone 260b), and does not need to be repositioned on pipe segment 230b (e.g., thereby forming a portion of blind zone 260c). In other examples where probe 41 is configured to collide with the end of the pipe, the amount of vibration, bounce, or oscillation of the probe caused by any discontinuity at abutment 236 is relatively less than, for example, those caused by a full collision with front end 232b. In this way, the time required to damp vibrations and restore the accurate inspection capabilities of the inspection device 40 is reduced, thereby reducing the longitudinal length of the pipe segments 230a and 230b that cannot be inspected near the trailing end 234a and the leading end 232b.

[0038] The inspection device 40 provides a sensor signal that represents the quality of the pipe segment 230b at the axial segment 250. The sensor signal varies with the quality of the pipe segments 230a, 230b. For example, a "normal" or "acceptable" axial segment 250 can be represented by a first signal level, while an axial segment 250 with defects (e.g., deformation, voids, inclusions, bubbles, cracks) can result in a relatively higher or lower signal level. The sensor signal is received by the controller 202 at the sensor input port 206 and processed to identify defects and other deformations in the pipe segments 230a, 230b. The controller 202 compares the received sensor signal with a predetermined defect threshold (e.g., a calibration value provided by a user) to identify that the pipe segment includes a certain type of defect. For example, the inspection device 40 can provide a range of zero to 10V as a sensor signal that varies with the quality of the axial segment 250, where an output of 5V is considered normal. A threshold window of + / - 1V may be provided by an operator, wherein a signal outside of this window (eg, resulting in a signal less than 4V or greater than 6V) may be determined to represent a defect.

[0039] The inspection device 40 also provides a sensor signal that represents the abutment 236 at the axial segment 250. The sensor signal varies due to the discontinuity between the pipe segments 230a, 230b. For example, a "normal" or "acceptable" axial segment 250 can be represented by a first signal level, a defect can be represented by a second signal level, and the abutment can cause such a signal level, which appears as a significantly larger defect with a relatively larger third signal level. The controller 202 compares the received sensor signal with a predetermined abutment threshold (e.g., a calibration value provided by the user) to identify when the abutment 236 is in the inspection area 52. For example, the inspection device 40 can provide a range of zero to 10V as the sensor signal, which varies with the quality of the axial segment 250, where an output of 5V is considered normal. A threshold window of + / -1V can be provided by the operator, where a signal exceeding the window (e.g., less than 4V or greater than 6V) can be determined to represent a defect. However, it may be known in advance that a true defect will not typically cause the sensor signal to change by more than + / - 3V (e.g., causing the signal to be less than 2V or greater than 8V). Thus, a sensor signal that exceeds the abutment threshold may be determined to represent an abutment 236 rather than a defect. In some implementations, the signal caused by the abutment may be eliminated, and the corresponding pipe segment may be prevented from being identified as including a defect.

[0040] The controller 202 can process the pipeline positioning signals from the pipeline positioning devices 222a and / or 222b and the sensor signals from the inspection device 40 to identify the position of the pipeline segments 230a, 230b, the position of the abutment 236, and / or the position of the detected defect. For example, the controller 202 can be configured to identify the pipeline segment in which the defect is detected. In another example, the controller 202 can identify the pipeline segment and the longitudinal position along the pipeline segment at which the defect is detected. In another example, the controller 202 can identify the position of the leading end 232a, 232b and / or the trailing end 234a, 234b based on the identified abutment 236 to determine the length of the pipeline segments 230a, 230b and / or the conveyor position.

[0041] The controller 202 provides a downstream control signal 265 at the output port 205. The downstream control signal 265 is received by a downstream controller 270 (e.g., a programmable logic controller) configured to control subsequent operations. For example, the downstream control signal 265 can identify the longitudinal location of a pipe defect within the pipe segment 230a, 230b (e.g., a defect near the leading end 232a, 232b and the trailing end 234a, 234b can be simply cut out, resulting in a slightly shorter pipe segment without the objectionable defect). In another example, the downstream control signal 265 can identify the location of the conveyor and / or the length of the pipe segment 230a, 230b (e.g., a location-dependent downstream operation can be coordinated based on the determined length and / or location of the pipe segment). In another example, the downstream control signal 265 may identify the pass / fail status of the pipe segments 230a, 230b with respect to pipe defects, and the downstream controller 270 may respond by causing the defective pipe segments to be separated or otherwise distinguished from pipe segments that are not identified as defective (e.g., sent for rework, recycling, or discard). Examples of such separation are described in FIG. 5A to FIG. 5B is discussed in the description.

[0042] Figure 3A-3E is a block diagram of an exemplary pipeline inspection system 300 and pipeline segments at various stages of inspection. In some embodiments, the pipeline inspection system 300 may be Figure 2A An exemplary pipeline inspection system 200 is provided.

[0043] Reference Figure 3A , the pipe segment 330a is longitudinally conveyed by the conveyor segment 320a at a first speed. The conveyor segment 320a includes one or more motors that can be controlled to control the speed at which the pipe segment is conveyed. Respectively, the pipe segment 330a includes a blind area 360a at the front end 322a and a blind area 260b at the rear end 324a.

[0044] Now refer to Figure 3B , the pipe segment 330a has been transferred to the conveyor segment 320b at a first speed. The pipe segment 330b is placed on the conveyor segment 320a, behind the pipe segment 330a, for being transported at a first speed. The conveyor segment 320b includes one or more motors, which can be controlled to control the speed at which the pipe segment is transported. The conveyor segment 320b is configured to transport the pipe segment at a second speed that is relatively slower than the speed of the conveyor 320a. Respectively, each of the pipe segments 330a and 330b includes a blind area 360 at the front end 322a and at the tail end 324a. For pipe segments having a length of about 6m to 15m or longer and / or a diameter range of about 50mm to 300mm, the blind area 360 can be about 300mm to 500mm long at the end of its respective pipe segment.

[0045] refer to Figure 3C Since the pipe segment 330a moves slower than the pipe segment 330b, the pipe segment 330b will catch up with the slower moving pipe segment 330a and abut against the pipe segment 330b at the abutment 336. Since the pipe segments 330a and 330b are in contact, the blind areas 360b and 360c will shrink in the length direction (e.g., from about 300 mm to about 3 mm) to become the blind area portion 361a and the blind area portion 361b.

[0046] Reference Figure 3D , the abutting pair of pipe segments 330a and 330b then advance through the inspection device 340 at a slower speed. The inspection device 340 inspects the pipe segments 330a and 330b except for the blind areas 361a, 361b. Because the blind areas 361a and 361b are smaller than 360b and 360c, the inspection device 340 can inspect a relatively larger longitudinal length of the abutting pipe segments 330a and 330b than would be possible if the pipe segments 330a and 330b were inspected separately. At the same time, the pipe segment 330c is placed on the conveyor section 320a, behind the pipe segment 330b, and is conveyed at the first speed.

[0047] Reference now Figure 3E , pipe segment 330a has completely passed through inspection device 340 and has reached conveyor 320c. Conveyor portion 320c includes one or more motors that can be controlled to control the speed at which the pipe segment is conveyed. Conveyor portion 320c is configured to convey the pipe segment at a third speed that is relatively faster than the speed of conveyor 320b. In this way, pipe segment 330a is separated so as not to abut against pipe segment 330b.

[0048] At the same time, the pipe segment 330c has abutted against the pipe segment 330b. In this way, the blind area 360b is shrunk into the blind area 361b, and the pipe segment 330c includes a similarly reduced blind area 361c.

[0049] Since the front end 322a of pipe segment 330a does not have the benefit of abutting an upstream pipe segment, the blind zone 360a remains relatively large (e.g., >300mm). In order to provide a more complete inspection of pipe segment 330a, pipe segment 330a can be returned to conveyor 320a for reprocessing. In the example shown, pipe segment 330a will catch up with and abut pipe segment 330c, allowing inspection of the front end 322a of pipe segment 330a with a relatively small blind zone (e.g., reduced to about 3mm from the front end 322a).

[0050] In some embodiments, other techniques may be used to reduce the length of the blind zone. For example, the pipe segment 330a may have a threaded end, and the front end 322a may be temporarily mated with a short section of complementary threaded pipe that is configured to have a length and / or shape that allows the inspection device 340 to accurately inspect the front end 322a with a reduced blind zone (e.g., long enough to allow the inspection device 340 to accurately inspect the front end 322a with a reduced blind zone). Figure 2A The vibrations in the exemplary sensor probe 41 of the embodiment are damped before the front end 322a reaches the position of the sensor probe 41). In another example, a "dummy" pipe segment can be added before the first pipe segment on the pipeline (e.g., in front of the front end 322a) and / or after the last pipe segment on the pipeline to provide an abutment and thus provide a tighter blind area for the pipe segment to be abutted by the "dummy" segment. This "dummy" pipe segment can then be reused at the beginning and end of subsequent inspection processes instead of being passed forward as a finished product.

[0051] Figure 4 A simplified diagram of an example velocity curve 400 for a pipeline segment in a pipeline inspection system is shown. In some embodiments, the velocity curve 400 may represent an example pipeline segment 330a being transported through Figure 3A-3E The speed of the exemplary pipeline inspection system 300.

[0052] During the first stage 410, the pipe segments are conveyed at a first (e.g., "fast") speed. For example, the pipe segment 330a can be conveyed relatively quickly along the conveyor 320a. During the second stage 420, the pipe segments are conveyed at a second (e.g., "normal") speed. For example, the pipe segment 330a can be conveyed at a normal speed along the conveyor 320b at a speed slower than the speed provided by the conveyor 320a. During the third stage 430, the pipe segments are conveyed at a third (e.g., "faster") speed. For example, the conveyor 320c can convey the pipe segment 330a away from the conveyor 320b at a speed relatively faster than the normal speed.

[0053] Figure 5A and Figure 5B is a block diagram of an exemplary pipeline inspection system 500 and a post-inspection pipeline separation system 501. In some embodiments, the exemplary pipeline inspection system 500 may be Figure 2A-Figure 3E In some embodiments, a post-inspection pipeline separation system 501 may be added downstream of the exemplary pipeline inspection system 200 or 300.

[0054] In use, some pipe segments 530 are abutted for inspection by the inspection device 540. When the pipe segments leave the pipe inspection system 500, they are received by the post-inspection pipe separation system 501. The post-inspection pipe separation system 501 includes a conveyor portion 510 that is movable to guide the inspected pipe segments 530 to the first output conveyor 520 or the second output conveyor 522.

[0055] The post-inspection pipeline separation system 501 is configured to move the conveyor segments 510 based at least in part on defect signals provided by the inspection device 540. For example, while the abutting pipeline segments 530 are being conveyed relative to the inspection device, the inspection device 540 may perform an electromagnetic inspection and provide defect data describing defects detected along the pipeline segments 530 (including within a reduced dead zone defined near the abutment between the pipeline segments 530). The defect data may be provided by a controller (e.g., Figure 2A The exemplary controller 202 of FIG. 500 is used to process the pipeline segment with defects and send a control signal downstream to the post-inspection pipeline separation system 501. In some embodiments, the post-inspection pipeline separation system 501 may include Figure 2A An exemplary downstream controller 270 and / or Figure 2A An exemplary downstream controller 270 controls.

[0056] Reference Figure 5A, the pipe segment 531 has been identified as having no defects detected by the inspection device 540, including no defects within about 300 mm to about 3 mm from the leading end or trailing end of the pipe segment 531. Thus, the post-inspection pipe separation system 501 aligns the conveyor segment 510 with the first output conveyor 520 (e.g., a "pass inspection" conveyor). In some embodiments, the first output conveyor 520 can transport the pipe segment 531 for additional processing steps, such as subsequent inspection or processing steps toward a final product.

[0057] Reference Figure 5B , the pipe segment 532 has been identified as having at least one defect detected by the inspection device 540, including a defect detected within about 300 mm to about 3 mm of the leading or trailing end of the pipe segment 532. Thus, the post-inspection pipe separation system 501 aligns the conveyor segment 510 with the second output conveyor 522 (e.g., a "failed inspection" conveyor). In some embodiments, the second output conveyor 522 can transport the pipe segment 531 for additional processing steps, such as separating the pipe segment from becoming a final product or directing the pipe segment 532 for reprocessing, recycling, or disposal.

[0058] Figure 6 2 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a process 600 for inspecting a pipe segment. In some embodiments, the process 600 may be performed by FIG. Figure 3A-3E and Figure 5A-Figure 5B The exemplary pipeline inspection systems 200, 300 and / or 500 perform.

[0059] At 605, a first pipe segment having a first pipe body, a first front end, and a first rear end is provided. For example, pipe segment 230a can be placed on conveyor 220a. In another example, pipe segment 330a can be placed on conveyor 320a.

[0060] At 610, a second pipe segment having a second pipe body, a second front end, and a second rear end is provided. For example, pipe segment 230b can be placed on conveyor 220b. In another example, pipe segment 330b can be placed on conveyor 320a, after pipe segment 330a.

[0061] At 615, the second leading end is brought into abutment with the first trailing end to define a pipe abutment region that includes a portion of the first pipe segment that is 300 mm longitudinally measured longitudinally from the first trailing end and a portion of the second pipe segment that is 300 mm longitudinally measured longitudinally from the second leading end. Figure 3CIn the embodiment, the pipe segment 330b catches up and abuts the pipe segment 330a, so that there are blind areas 361a and 361b on the longitudinal sides of the abutment portion 336.

[0062] In some embodiments, bringing the second leading end into abutment with the first trailing end to define a pipe abutment area may include: conveying the first pipe segment longitudinally at a first speed, conveying the second pipe segment longitudinally at a second speed faster than the first speed, bringing the second leading end into contact with the first trailing end to define a pipe abutment area, and conveying the first pipe segment longitudinally with the second pipe segment such that contact between the first trailing end and the second leading end is maintained. For example, conveyor 320b is operated at a slower speed than conveyor 320a. In this way, pipe segment 330b will catch up and contact pipe segment 330a, and conveyor 320b will convey the abutting pipe segments 330a, 330b at a slower speed.

[0063] At 620, the first pipe segment and the second pipe segment are longitudinally conveyed at a first speed relative to an inspection device configured to perform electromagnetic inspection. For example, the first pipe segment and the second pipe segment are longitudinally conveyed at a first speed by conveyor 320b at a normal speed (e.g., Figure 4 In stage 420 , the abutting pipe segments 330 a and 330 b are conveyed through the inspection device 340 .

[0064] At 625, while the first pipe segment and the second pipe segment are being conveyed relative to the inspection device, the inspection device inspects a first portion of the pipe abutment area and a second portion of the pipe abutment area at 630. In some embodiments, inspecting the first portion of the abutment area includes inspecting a portion of the first pipe segment that is 3 mm to 300 mm in longitudinal distance measured longitudinally from the first trailing end, and inspecting the second portion of the abutment area includes inspecting a portion of the second pipe segment that is 3 mm to 300 mm in longitudinal distance measured longitudinally from the second leading end. For example, the pipe inspection device 40 may inspect the axial segment 250 as the pipe segments 230a and 230b pass through the inspection area 52. Since the pipe segments 230a and 230b are in end-to-end contact, the pipe inspection device 40 may detect defects as close as 3 mm on each side of the abutment 236.

[0065] At 635 , defect data is provided based on the inspection by the inspection device, the defect data describing a defect detected in at least one of the first portion and the second portion of the pipe abutment region. For example, the inspection device 40 may output a defect sensor signal to the controller 202 .

[0066] Although process 600 generally describes inspection near the ends of a pipe segment (which is generally not applicable when inspecting a single pipe segment (e.g., inspecting the pipe one at a time, rather than in a pseudo-continuous manner as described herein), process 600 is not limited to inspecting only abutment areas. In some embodiments, process 600 may also include inspecting the body of the pipe extending between the pipe ends. For example, process 600 may inspect Figure 2A-2B The pipe body 261a and the leading end 232a and the trailing end 234a of the exemplary pipe segment 230a as they each pass through the pipe inspection device 40.

[0067] In some embodiments, the method 600 may further include, after inspecting the pipe abutment area, longitudinally conveying the first pipe segment at a third speed that is faster than the second speed. Figure 3E It is shown that after the pipe segment 330a has been inspected, the conveyor 320c may carry the pipe segment 330a away at a faster speed than the speed of the conveyor 320b.

[0068] In some embodiments, process 600 may also include providing a third pipe segment having a third pipe body, a third front end, and a third rear end, abutting the third front end with the second rear end to define a second pipe abutment area, the second pipe abutment area including a portion of the second pipe segment having a longitudinal distance of 300 mm measured longitudinally from the second rear end, and a portion of the third pipe segment having a longitudinal distance of 300 mm measured longitudinally from the third front end; conveying the second pipe segment and the third pipe segment longitudinally relative to the inspection device at a first speed; inspecting the second abutment area by the inspection device as the second pipe segment and the third pipe segment are conveyed relative to the inspection device; and providing defect data based on the inspection, the defect data describing defects detected by the inspection device in the second pipe abutment area. For example, pipe segment 330c may be brought into end-to-end contact with pipe segment 330b for inspection by inspection device 340.

[0069] In some embodiments, process 600 may further include inspecting a portion of a first pipe body by the inspection device when the first pipe segment is conveyed relative to the inspection device, and inspecting a portion of a second pipe body by the inspection device when the second pipe segment is conveyed relative to the inspection device. For example, inspection device 40 may inspect pipe segments 230a and 230b including portions of pipe bodies 261a and 261b. Figure 3C , inspection can be performed within the area of ​​blind zones 360b and 360c (which excludes reduced blind zones 361a and 361b).

[0070] In some embodiments, the inspection may include generating a magnetic field near the axial pipe segment, detecting the interaction of the magnetic field with the axial pipe segment, and detecting changes in the interaction at the axial pipe segment. For example, the inspection device 40, 340 and / or 540 may function using the principle of dispersed electromagnetic flow.

[0071] In some embodiments, process 600 may include determining that the change exceeds a predetermined defect threshold, identifying one of the first pipe segment or the second pipe segment as a defective pipe segment having an axial pipe segment causing the change, and separating the defective pipe segment from other pipe segments that are not identified as defective pipe segments, wherein the axial pipe segment is less than 300 mm from the first tail end or the second front end. For example, controller 202 may be configured (e.g., calibrated) to represent a threshold value of a minimum sensor change that may indicate the presence of a defect sensed by inspection device 40. If the sensor signal change received from the inspection device reaches or exceeds the threshold, controller 202 may identify the pipe segment in which the defect is detected and trigger post-inspection pipe separation system 501 to direct the defective pipe segment away from output conveyor 520 and toward output conveyor 521.

[0072] In some embodiments, the process 600 may include determining that the change exceeds a predetermined defect threshold, receiving position information of at least one of the first pipe segment and the second pipe segment, identifying one of the first pipe segment or the second pipe segment as an axial pipe segment having an induced change as a defective pipe segment, and identifying the position of the axial pipe segment along the defective pipe segment based on the position information, providing defect information identifying the defective pipe segment and an identified position of the axial pipe segment at which the change exceeds the defect threshold, wherein the identified position is in a pipe abutment region of the first pipe segment and the second pipe segment. For example, the controller 202 may be configured (e.g., calibrated) with a threshold representing a minimum sensor change that may indicate the presence of a defect sensed by the inspection device 40. If the sensor signal change received from the inspection device meets or exceeds the threshold, the controller 202 may identify the pipe segment in which the defect is detected, and identify the position of the defect along the length of the pipe segment in which the defect is detected. In some embodiments, if the defect is located within a predetermined distance from the end of the pipe segment, the pipe segment may be reworked to remove the defect. For example, if a 10 m long pipe section has a defect 15 cm from the end, the end can simply be cut off by about 25 cm from the end, resulting in a 9.75 m defect-free pipe section.

[0073] In some embodiments, process 600 may include receiving position information of a first pipe segment and a second pipe segment, determining that a change exceeds a predetermined abutment threshold, identifying a position of an axial pipe portion based on the position information at which the change exceeds the abutment threshold, providing the identified position as first position information representing the position of the first trailing end, and providing the identified position as second position information representing the position of the second leading end.

[0074] For example, when encountering the probe 41, the abutment 236 may cause a change in the sensor signal output of the pipeline inspection device 40. The change may be greater than any expected change of a pipeline defect. The controller 202 may be configured (e.g., calibrated) with a threshold value that can be used to distinguish between a defect and an abutment. For example, an axial segment without a defect may cause almost no change in the sensor signal about a predetermined normal value, while a defect may cause a change exceeding the defect threshold but not exceeding the abutment threshold, and an abutment may cause a change exceeding both the defect threshold and the abutment threshold.

[0075] The controller 202 can determine that an abutment has been detected and identify the location of the detected abutment based on the position signals from the pipe positioning devices 222a and / or 222b. Since the abutment (e.g., abutment 236) is defined by the point where the tail end of the pipe segment (e.g., tail end 234a) contacts the front end of the subsequent pipe segment (e.g., front end 232b), the location of the tail end and the front end can also be determined and provided to other controllers (e.g., downstream controller 270) to coordinate other operations.

[0076] In some embodiments, the process 600 may further include: receiving at least one of the first position information and the second position information by the controller, and controlling, by the controller and after inspecting the pipe abutment area, a process based on at least one of the first position information and the second position information. In some embodiments, the process may be one of the following: a motion control process, a longitudinal electromagnetic longitudinal defect inspection process, an ultrasonic pipe thickness inspection process, a transverse defect inspection process, or a machine vision-based inspection process. For example, the controller 202 may process sensor signal information from the pipe inspection device 40 and process position feedback signals from the pipe positioning devices 222a, 222b, and provide a downstream control signal 265 to the downstream controller 270, which may be configured to control the post-inspection pipe separation system 501. In another example, the downstream controller 270 may be configured to control other longitudinal electromagnetic longitudinal defect inspection processes, pipe thickness inspection processes (e.g., ultrasonic), machine vision-based inspection processes, automated processes, or any other suitable process for manufacturing or inspecting pipe segments.

[0077] Figure 7is a schematic diagram of an example of a general purpose computer system 700. According to one embodiment, the system 700 may be used for the operations described in conjunction with the method 300. For example, the system 700 may be included in any one or all of the controller 202, the downstream controller 270, the pipeline inspection devices 40, 340, and 540, the pipeline positioning devices 222a and 222b, and the post-inspection pipeline separation system 501.

[0078] The system 700 includes a processor 710, a memory 720, a storage device 730, and an input / output device 740. Each of the components 710, 720, 730, and 740 are interconnected using a system bus 750. The processor 710 is capable of processing instructions to be executed within the system 700. In one embodiment, the processor 710 is a single-threaded processor. In another embodiment, the processor 710 is a multi-threaded processor. The processor 710 is capable of processing instructions stored in the memory 720 or stored on the storage device 730 to display graphical information for a user interface on the input / output device 740.

[0079] The memory 720 stores information within the system 700. In one embodiment, the memory 720 is a computer readable medium. In one embodiment, the memory 720 is a volatile memory unit. In another embodiment, the memory 720 is a non-volatile memory unit.

[0080] The storage device 730 can provide mass storage for the system 700. In one embodiment, the storage device 730 is a computer-readable medium. In various different embodiments, the storage device 730 can be a floppy disk device, a hard disk device, an optical disk device, or a magnetic tape device.

[0081] The input / output device 740 provides input / output operations for the system 700. In one embodiment, the input / output device 740 includes a keyboard and / or a pointing device. In another embodiment, the input / output device 740 includes a display unit for displaying a graphical user interface.

[0082] The described features may be implemented in digital electronic circuitry or in computer hardware, firmware, software, or a combination thereof. The apparatus may be implemented in a computer program product tangibly embodied in an information carrier (e.g., in a machine-readable storage device) for execution by a programmable processor; the method steps may be performed by a programmable processor executing a program of instructions to perform the functions of the described implementation by operating on input data and generating output. The described features may be advantageously implemented in one or more computer programs executable on a programmable system including at least one programmable processor coupled to receive data and instructions from and transmit data and instructions to: a data storage system, at least one input device, and at least one output device. A computer program is a set of instructions that may be used, directly or indirectly, in a computer to perform a specific activity or bring about a specific result. Computer programs may be written in any form of programming language, including compiled or interpreted languages, and may be deployed in any form, including as a stand-alone program or as a module, component, subroutine, or other unit suitable for use in a computing environment.

[0083] For example, suitable processors for executing a program of instructions include general and special purpose microprocessors, as well as the sole processor or one of multiple processors of any type of computer. Typically, the processor will receive instructions and data from a read-only memory or a random access memory or both. The basic elements of a computer are a processor for executing instructions and one or more memories for storing instructions and data. Typically, a computer will also include one or more mass storage devices for storing data files, or be operably connected to communicate with them; these devices include magnetic disks, such as internal hard disks and removable disks; magneto-optical disks; and optical disks. Storage devices suitable for tangibly embodying computer program instructions and data include all forms of non-volatile memory, for example, including semiconductor memory devices, such as EPROM, EEPROM and flash memory devices; magnetic disks, such as internal hard disks and removable disks; magneto-optical disks; and CD-ROM and DVD-ROM optical disks. The processor and memory may be supplemented by or incorporated into an ASIC (Application Specific Integrated Circuit).

[0084] To provide for interaction with a user, the features may be implemented on a computer having a display device such as a CRT (cathode ray tube) or LCD (liquid crystal display) monitor for displaying information to the user and a keyboard and pointing device (such as a mouse or trackball) through which the user can provide input to the computer.

[0085] Features may be implemented in a computer system that includes a back-end component, such as a data server, or includes a middleware component, such as an application server or an Internet server, or includes a front-end component, such as a client computer with a graphical user interface or an Internet browser, or any combination thereof. The components of the system may be connected by any form or medium of digital data communication, such as a communication network. Examples of communication networks include, for example, LANs, WANs, and the computers and networks that form the Internet.

[0086] The computer system may include a client and a server. The client and the server are usually remote from each other and usually interact via a network (such as the described network). The relationship between the client and the server is generated by computer programs running on respective computers and having a mutual client-server relationship.

[0087] Although some embodiments have been described in detail above, other modifications are possible. In addition, the logic flows depicted in the accompanying drawings do not require the specific order or sequential order shown to achieve the desired results. In addition, other steps can be provided from the described processes, or steps can be removed from the described processes, and other components can be added to the described systems or removed from them. Therefore, other embodiments are within the scope of the appended claims.

Claims

1. A pipeline inspection method, comprising: providing a first pipe segment having a first pipe body, a first leading end, and a first trailing end; providing a second conduit segment having a second conduit body, a second leading end, and a second trailing end; abutting at least a portion of the second leading end with at least a portion of the first trailing end to define a pipe abutment region, the pipe abutment region comprising a portion of the first pipe segment having a longitudinal distance of 300 mm measured longitudinally from the first trailing end and a portion of the second pipe segment having a longitudinal distance of 300 mm measured longitudinally from the second leading end; longitudinally transporting the first pipe segment and the second pipe segment at a first speed relative to an inspection device configured to perform an electromagnetic inspection; inspecting, by the inspection device, a first portion of the pipeline abutment region and a second portion of the pipeline abutment region while the first pipeline segment and the second pipeline segment are conveyed relative to the inspection device; as well as providing defect data based on the inspection, the defect data describing a defect detected by the inspection device in at least one of the first portion and the second portion of the pipe abutment region; as well as Wherein the inspection device functions using the principle of dispersed electromagnetic flow, and the inspection comprises: generating a magnetic field adjacent to an axial pipe segment; detecting the interaction of the magnetic field with the axial pipe segment; and Changes in the interaction at the axial pipe segments are detected.

2. The method according to claim 1, characterized in that Abutting the second front end with the first rear end to define a pipe abutment area includes: conveying a first pipe segment longitudinally at a first speed; conveying the second pipe segment longitudinally at a second speed faster than the first speed; contacting the second leading end with the first trailing end to define a pipe abutment area; and The first pipe segment and the second pipe segment are longitudinally transferred such that contact between the first trailing end and the second leading end is maintained.

3. The method according to claim 2, characterized in that Also includes: After inspecting the pipe abutment area, the first pipe segment is conveyed longitudinally at a third speed that is faster than the second speed.

4. The method according to claim 3, characterized in that Also includes: Providing a third conduit segment having a third conduit body, a third leading end, and a third trailing end; abutting at least a portion of the third leading end with at least a portion of the second trailing end to define a second pipe abutment area, the second pipe abutment area comprising a portion of the second pipe segment having a longitudinal distance of 300 mm measured longitudinally from the second trailing end and a portion of the third pipe segment having a longitudinal distance of 300 mm measured longitudinally from the third leading end; conveying the second pipe segment and the third pipe segment longitudinally relative to the inspection device at a first speed; inspecting the second pipe abutment area by the inspection device as the second pipe segment and the third pipe segment are conveyed relative to the inspection device; and Defect data are provided based on the inspection, the defect data describing defects detected by the inspection device in the second pipe abutment region.

5. The method according to claim 1, characterized in that Also includes: inspecting a portion of the first pipe body by the inspection device while the first pipe segment is conveyed relative to the inspection device; as well as A portion of the second pipe body is inspected by the inspection device while the second pipe segment is conveyed relative to the inspection device.

6. The method according to claim 1, characterized in that Also includes: determining that the change exceeds a predetermined defect threshold; identifying one of the first pipe segment or the second pipe segment as a defective pipe segment having an axial pipe segment causing the change; and separating the defective pipe segment from other pipe segments that are not identified as defective pipe segments; and The axial pipe segment is less than 300 mm away from the first tail end or the second front end.

7. The method according to claim 1, characterized in that Also includes: determining that the change exceeds a predetermined defect threshold; receiving position information of at least one of the first pipe segment and the second pipe segment; identifying one of the first pipe segment or the second pipe segment as a defective pipe segment having an axial pipe segment causing the change; and Based on the position information, identifying an identification position of the axial pipeline segment along the defective pipeline segment; and Defect information identifying the defective pipe segment and an identified location of the axial pipe segment at which the change exceeds a predetermined defect threshold is provided, wherein the identified location is in a pipe abutment region of the first pipe segment and the second pipe segment.

8. The method according to claim 1, characterized in that Also includes: receiving position information of the first pipeline segment and the second pipeline segment; determining that the change exceeds a predetermined abutment threshold; Based on the position information, identifying an identified position of the axial pipe segment at which the change exceeds a predetermined abutment threshold; providing the identification position as first position information representing the position of the first tail end; and The identified position is provided as second position information representing the position of the second front end.

9. The method according to claim 8, characterized in that Also includes: receiving, by the controller, at least one of the first position information and the second position information; as well as A process based on at least one of the first position information and the second position information is controlled by the controller after inspecting the pipe abutment area.

10. The method according to claim 9, characterized in that The process is one of: a motion control process, a longitudinal electromagnetic longitudinal defect inspection process, an ultrasonic pipe thickness inspection process, a transverse defect inspection process, or a machine vision based inspection process.

11. The method according to claim 1, characterized in that: Inspecting the first portion of the pipe abutment area includes inspecting a portion of the first pipe segment whose longitudinal distance measured longitudinally from the first tail end is 3 mm to 300 mm, and inspecting the second portion of the pipe abutment area includes inspecting a portion of the second pipe segment whose longitudinal distance measured longitudinally from the second front end is 3 mm to 300 mm.

12. The method according to claim 1, characterized in that The magnetic field at the pipe abutment area is stable and has the same characteristics as the magnetic field at the first pipe body and the second pipe body.

13. A computer readable storage device having a computer program stored thereon, characterized in that: The computer program includes instructions that, when executed by a computer system, cause the computer system to perform an electromagnetic inspection operation on a first pipe segment and a second pipe segment that are at least partially abutted, wherein the first pipe segment has a first pipe body, a first leading end, and a first trailing end, and the second pipe segment with the second pipe body has a second leading end and a second trailing end, the inspection operation comprising: receiving a pipeline defect signal from an electromagnetic pipeline inspection device, the inspection device functioning using the principle of dispersed electromagnetic flow; receiving a pipeline position signal from a pipeline position positioning device; providing a conveyor control signal to control the pipe conveyor to abut at least a portion of the second leading end against at least a portion of the first trailing end to define a pipe abutment area, the abutment area including a portion of the first pipe segment measured longitudinally from the first trailing end by a longitudinal distance of 300 mm and a portion of the second pipe segment measured longitudinally from the second leading end by a longitudinal distance of 300 mm, so that when the first pipe segment and the second pipe segment are conveyed relative to the inspection device, the inspection device inspects the first portion of the pipe abutment area and the second portion of the pipe abutment area; detecting a pipeline defect location in the abutment area based on the received pipeline defect signal, the received pipeline location signal, and a predetermined pipeline defect threshold; Identifying defective pipeline sections based on pipeline defect locations; and Provides identification of defective pipe sections.

14. The computer-readable storage device according to claim 13, wherein: The operations further include: detecting a pipe abutment position based on a received pipe defect signal, a received pipe position signal, and a predetermined pipe abutment threshold, the predetermined pipe abutment threshold being different from a predetermined pipe defect threshold; and A pipe end position signal is provided based on a pipe abutment position that indicates a position of an abutment between a leading end of the pipe segment and a trailing end of the pipe segment.

15. The computer readable storage device according to claim 13, wherein: The operations also include: providing a conveyor control signal that causes a first segment of the tube conveyor to operate at a first speed; and A conveyor signal is provided that causes a second section of the pipe conveyor to operate at a second speed slower than the first speed, the second section of the pipe conveyor being operatively downstream of the first section of the pipe conveyor, wherein the pipe inspection apparatus is disposed along the second section of the pipe conveyor.

16. The computer readable storage device according to claim 15, wherein: The operations also include: determining, based on the pipe position signal, that a first pipe segment on a first segment of the pipe conveyor has abutted a second pipe segment on a second segment of the pipe conveyor; and A second conveyor control signal is provided that causes the first segment of the tube conveyor to operate at a second speed.

17. The computer readable storage device according to claim 13, wherein: Detecting the pipeline defect position based on the received pipeline defect signal, the received pipeline position signal and a predetermined defect threshold further includes: receiving position information of at least one of a first pipe segment having a first tail end and a second pipe segment having a second front end longitudinally abutting the first tail end; and determining that a change in the pipeline defect signal exceeds a predetermined pipeline defect threshold, wherein the change is detected less than 300 mm from the first trailing end or the second leading end; and Wherein, identifying the defective pipeline segment based on the pipeline defect position further includes: identifying one of the first pipeline segment or the second pipeline segment as causing the change.

18. The computer-readable storage device according to claim 13, wherein: Detection of pipeline abutment positions also includes: receiving position information of at least one of a first conduit segment having a first trailing end and a second conduit segment having a second leading end at least partially longitudinally abutting the first trailing end; determining that a change in the pipe defect signal exceeds a predetermined pipe abutment threshold, wherein the change is detected less than about 3 mm from the first trailing end or the second leading end; and Based on the position information, identifying an identification position at which the change exceeds a predetermined abutment threshold; and Providing the pipeline end position signal further comprises providing the identified position as the pipeline end position.

19. A system for pipeline inspection, characterized in that: include: Electromagnetic pipeline inspection equipment, which works using the principle of dispersed electromagnetic flow; a conveyor configured to convey a first pipe segment having a first pipe body, a first leading end, and a first trailing end and a second pipe segment having a second pipe body, a second leading end, and a second trailing end longitudinally relative to the inspection apparatus; Pipeline location positioning equipment; and A controller, the controller comprising: a defect signal input port, wherein the defect signal input port is configured to receive a pipeline defect signal from a pipeline inspection device; a position input port configured to receive a pipeline position signal from a pipeline position locating device; and A processor, the processor being configured to: providing a conveyor control signal to control the conveyor to abut at least a portion of the second leading end against at least a portion of the first trailing end to define a pipe abutment area, the pipe abutment area including a portion of the first pipe segment measured longitudinally from the first trailing end by a longitudinal distance of 300 mm and a portion of the second pipe segment measured longitudinally from the second leading end by a longitudinal distance of 300 mm, so that when the first pipe segment and the second pipe segment are conveyed relative to the inspection device, the inspection device inspects the first portion of the pipe abutment area and the second portion of the pipe abutment area; and The pipeline defect location is detected based on the pipeline defect signal, the pipeline location signal and a predetermined pipeline defect threshold, and the pipeline defect location is provided at a first output port as a pipeline defect location signal, wherein the pipeline defect location signal identifies a pipeline segment having a pipeline defect.

20. The system according to claim 19, characterized in that The processor is further configured to detect a pipe abutment position based on the pipe defect signal, the pipe position signal and a predetermined pipe abutment threshold, and provide a pipe end position signal at a second output port, wherein the pipe end position signal identifies a position of at least one of a leading end of a pipe segment and a trailing end of a pipe segment.

21. The system according to claim 19, characterized in that The conveyor includes a first motor configured to convey the pipe segment along an upstream segment of the conveyor at a first speed and a second motor configured to convey the pipe segment along a downstream segment of the conveyor at a second speed slower than the first speed.

22. The system according to claim 21, characterized in that At least one of the first motor and the second motor is configured to move the pipe segment based on a speed signal received from a motor control output port of the controller, and wherein the processor is further configured to provide the speed signal such that the second speed is less than the first speed.

23. The system according to claim 22, characterized in that The conveyor also includes a third motor configured to convey the pipe segment along the output segment of the conveyor at a third speed that is faster than the second speed.

Images