Axial lidar Doppler analyzer

Abstract

A measuring device includes: a Doppler lidar unit, the Doppler lidar unit including an optical transmitter operable to transmit a signal, and an optical receiver operable to receive a backscattered signal, the backscattered signal including a portion of the signal; the measuring device further includes a processor operable to: determine a Doppler frequency shift between the signal and the backscattered signal; and use the Doppler frequency shift to determine the volumetric flow rate of a fluid to which the signal is directed and from which the backscattered signal is received.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] Embodiments of the present invention generally relate to downhole systems, components, and methods. One or more specific embodiments relate to optical systems configured and operable to measure the volume and velocity of gases generated and / or encountered in connection with downhole operations. Background Technology

[0002] The upstream oil and gas portion of the system may include various facilities located at the well site. The well site may have one or more wells, tank banks, sales and exhaust pipelines, or combustion facilities, power generation, and may also include steam recovery units.

[0003] In operation, hydrocarbons such as oil and gas flow upwards from the well along with water. Once extracted from the well, the oil, gas, and water can be transported via pipelines or pipeline systems to a large tank bank, a group of tanks, which may be located at the well site. The hydrocarbons can then be separated from the water from the tank bank, including the separation of existing hydrocarbons or the generation of vapors. The oil can then be transferred to a sales pipeline or a more controlled separation facility located midstream, where it may undergo another separation process. Water can be recovered or treated. Vapors can be discharged from the tank bank via a pipeline system that can connect to a vapor recovery unit, vent, or combustion unit. If a vapor recovery unit is installed at the well site, the exhaust gases can be recovered and transported to the sales location or used for separate necessary processes. If no vapor recovery unit is installed at the well site, the vapors can be transported via a low- or high-pressure pipeline system to a combustion unit or vent, where they can be burned or released into the atmosphere.

[0004] The volume and velocity of hydrocarbons traveling through the aforementioned systems or processes have not been recovered or recorded. Currently, no data acquisition system is capable of accurately recording the volume or velocity of these hydrocarbons traveling from the well to the tank bank, from the tank bank to the sales or separation location, and / or the volume or velocity of the steam delivered to the combustion unit or steam recovery unit. Attached Figure Description

[0005] To describe how at least some of the advantages and features of the invention can be obtained, embodiments of the invention will be described in more detail with reference to the specific embodiments shown in the accompanying drawings. It should be understood that these drawings depict only typical embodiments of the invention and should not be considered as limiting its scope; embodiments of the invention will be described and explained with additional specificity and detail using the drawings.

[0006] Figure 1 It discloses plan views of various aspects of an example well site layout without a steam recovery unit.

[0007] Figure 2 It is an elevation view of an embodiment of a low-pressure or high-pressure pipeline from the separator to the combustion chimney without a steam recovery device.

[0008] Figure 3 Aspects of an optical volumetric LiDAR (Light Detection and Ranging) Doppler analyzer (ALDA) according to one embodiment are disclosed.

[0009] Figure 4 Various aspects of a field-assembled sample ALDA have been disclosed.

[0010] Figure 5 A schematic diagram of an example system, including a separator and a combustion chimney, is disclosed.

[0011] Figure 6 An elevation view of the assembly from the example separator to the combustion chimney has been released.

[0012] Figure 7 An example second mounting option for the example optical volume ALDA is disclosed.

[0013] Figure 8 Various aspects of the operation of an example optical volumetric ALDA are disclosed.

[0014] Figure 9 A sample operation flowchart has been published.

[0015] Figure 10 Example ALDA electrical diagrams have been published.

[0016] Figure 11 A schematic diagram of a well site equipped with a vapor recovery unit (VRU) has been released.

[0017] Figure 12 The volume of gas delivered to the VRU, measured using an example ALDA, is disclosed.

[0018] Figure 13 The volume of gas reaching the combustion chimney is disclosed by example ALDA.

[0019] Figure 14 An example method according to one implementation is disclosed. Detailed Implementation

[0020] Embodiments of the present invention generally relate to downhole systems, components, and methods. One or more specific embodiments relate to optical systems configured and operable to measure the volume and velocity of gases generated and / or encountered in connection with downhole operations. While optical measuring devices exist for measuring flow velocities, there are currently no optical devices configured or operated to transmit a lidar beam axially or parallel to the flow path within a pipe to measure the volumetric flow rate of fluids, liquids, gases, or solids. Therefore, at least the exemplary embodiments can provide significant advancements over known technologies.

[0021] One example implementation includes an optical system suitable for downhole applications, namely an axial optical volumetric lidar Doppler analyzer (ALDA), which may include, for example, an optical transmitter and a receiver. The Doppler lidar may include a transmitter, such as a laser, that generates and emits pulsed or continuous energy streams that impinge on or irradiate the volume of interest. The receiver of the Doppler lidar may collect backscattered energy and then estimate the backscattered energy and the Doppler frequency shift of the echo. Thus, the optical system is capable of measuring parameters, including but not limited to, the flow rate, velocity, and volume of fluids such as gases. These parameters, if applicable, may be measured for material flow and / or static material volume.

[0022] It should be noted that, as used herein, “fluid” is intended to be interpreted broadly, including, but not limited to, any phase of a material, including liquids, gases, combinations of one or more liquids, combinations of one or more gases, combinations of one or more liquids and one or more gases, liquids and gases comprising solid materials (such as particles), combinations of gases and / or liquids comprising particles, and groups and combinations of any of the foregoing. As described herein, steam is an example of a fluid.

[0023] Embodiments of the present invention, such as those disclosed herein, can be advantageous in several respects. For example, and as can be clearly seen from the invention, one or more embodiments of the invention can provide one or more advantageous and unexpected effects in any combination, some examples of which are described below. It should be noted that these effects are neither intended nor should be construed as limiting the scope of the claimed invention in any way. It should also be noted that nothing herein should be construed as constituting a fundamental or indispensable element of any invention or embodiment. Rather, aspects of the disclosed embodiments can be combined in various ways to define further embodiments. For example, any element(s) of any embodiment can be combined with any element(s) of any other embodiment to define further embodiments. Such further embodiments are considered to be within the scope of the invention. Similarly, any embodiment included within the scope of the invention should not be construed as solving or limited to solving any particular problem(s). Nor should any such embodiment be construed as achieving or limited to achieving any particular technical effect(s) or solution(s). Finally, no embodiment is required to achieve any of the advantageous and unexpected effects disclosed herein.

[0024] For example, one advantage of one embodiment is that it can provide relatively high accuracy and a control ratio, i.e., operating range, relative to the limited operating range typically associated with components such as orifice plate flow meters. As another example, one embodiment does not require compression of the fluid being measured before the device measures the flow rate. In contrast, typical orifice-based measuring devices require fluid compression to obtain relatively reliable flow rate measurements. Furthermore, the ALDA example embodiment can be relatively inexpensive than conventional flow measurement devices. As another example, one embodiment can omit the use of a radiation source as a mechanism to facilitate flow measurement. In contrast, oilfield densitometers, for example, typically use radiation sources to facilitate measurements. Furthermore, one embodiment may not require the high voltage, high temperature, or low temperature liquids that equipment such as mass spectrometers and mass spectrometers might require. Additionally, one embodiment can be configured and operated to transmit a lidar beam axially or parallel to the flow direction within a pipe or other component to measure the volumetric flow rate of a fluid, liquid, gas, or solid through that pipe or component. As a final example, one embodiment can operate in situations where flow restrictors or other devices need to be placed in the fluid passage where the embodiment is located. Various other advantages of one or more example embodiments will become apparent according to the invention.

[0025] A. Example usage of one or more implementation methods

[0026] In general, one embodiment of the present invention includes an optical system that can be installed inside a piping system for conveying hydrocarbons and water to a tank group, an optical system that can be installed inside a piping system for conveying hydrocarbons and water from a tank group to a sales or separation location, and an optical system that can be installed inside a piping system for conveying steam or exhaust gas to a steam recovery unit, a combustion unit, or an exhaust outlet.

[0027] A.1 Midstream Oil and Gas Segment

[0028] The midstream oil and gas portion of the system may include and / or involve the processing, storage, and / or transportation of hydrocarbons to refineries and / or any end-user. In this setting, hydrocarbons are transported or transported from upstream to the midstream system. Once the hydrocarbons arrive at the midstream system, they may undergo separation processes, refinement, and then be transported by truck, rail, or pipeline to downstream users, such as refineries. Water may also be present and may need to be separated from the hydrocarbons. The hydrocarbon mixture, i.e., oil and gas, and water, is separated as a three-phase process at the midstream facility prior to transportation. This facility may include multiple piping systems or other mechanisms for transporting hydrocarbons, water, and other fluids and gases throughout the midstream facility prior to transportation. These systems may require measuring instruments, such as those in embodiments of the present invention, configured and operable to acquire data such as volume, velocity, density, and composition.

[0029] Referring to an example of the midstream oil and gas section of a reference system, one embodiment of the present invention can be configured and operable to measure the volume, velocity, density, and composition of a fluid. One embodiment can be installed inside a piping system capable of transporting hydrocarbons and water. Another embodiment can also be installed inside a container, tank, or any other volume through which and / or from which midstream liquids are transported. Yet another embodiment can also be installed inside a piping system providing access to a vent, combustion device, or exhaust outlet.

[0030] A.2 Downstream oil and gas section

[0031] The downstream oil and gas portion of the system can be the part where hydrocarbons in the system are transported or shipped to or from midstream or upstream markets for refining. Refining processes may include processes that produce chemicals, gasoline, diesel, lubricating oil, kerosene, or any products or byproducts that the end user or refinery may be capable of producing.

[0032] The refining process for hydrocarbons can be both extensive and complex. Multiple stages occur during hydrocarbon refining. These stages can vary depending on what the refinery produces or the end user. All the steps and stages that hydrocarbons may undergo during this process, such as waste, exhaust gases, and emissions, may need to be released into the atmosphere or burned in a combustion chimney. Some waste, such as natural gas, can also be used to power natural gas power plants, which generate electricity for refineries or any end user who purchases power from the grid.

[0033] Referring to the example of the downstream oil and gas sections of the example system, one embodiment of the present invention can be configured and operated to accurately acquire these data. Specifically, one embodiment can measure the volume and velocity of hydrocarbons or refined products generated or formed during the refining process. One embodiment can measure the volume and velocity of exhaust gases, as well as the volume and size of particles generated from combustion chimneys and released into the atmosphere with the gas, or particles emitted and discharged through the chimneys of natural gas power plants.

[0034] A.3 Power and Energy Industry

[0035] The power and energy sector may include processes that utilize fossil fuels, natural gas, and other forms of fuel to generate energy through combustion, or any process that generates energy from these sources. These combustion systems may include, but are not limited to, coal-fired power plants, oil-fired power plants, and natural gas power plants.

[0036] Coal-fired power plants may include boilers in which coal is ignited or burned, heating tubes on the boiler walls. These tubes are filled with water, which is then turned into steam during combustion or heating. After the coal is ignited and burned, its byproducts are ash, particles, and harmful gases. These gases and particles are then released into the atmosphere through a chimney. The system may not always monitor the volume of gas in and through the chimney, as well as the size and volume of particles.

[0037] Oil-fired power plants operate similarly to coal-fired power plants. A key difference is that the fuel is used to generate heat. In this case, the fuel ignited or burned in the boiler is oil. The combustion of the oil produces byproducts, such as combustion gases. These gases can then be released into the atmosphere through a chimney. The system may not always monitor the gases emitted into the atmosphere.

[0038] A natural gas power plant can be a heat recovery steam generator (HRSG), or a boiler in which natural gas can be burned. An HRSG can burn or ignite natural gas before or during its entry into a natural gas turbine. The heat generated by the ignition then enters the boiler system before passing through a series of systems and finally being released into the atmosphere through a chimney. The volume and velocity of the natural gas may not always be monitored before it enters the natural gas turbine. The system may not always monitor exhaust gases or emissions from the chimney into the atmosphere.

[0039] Referring to example scenarios in the power and energy industries, one embodiment of the invention can be configured and operable to measure the volume and velocity of exhaust gases emitted into the atmosphere after undergoing a combustion process, for example in industries including but not limited to energy, power, manufacturing, refining, oil and gas, and the automotive or transportation industries. One embodiment can also measure the volume and velocity of gases (e.g., natural gas) entering and / or leaving a combustion system or process, one example combustion system including one or more natural gas turbines.

[0040] B. Overview of one or more implementation methods

[0041] One or more exemplary embodiments of the present invention include an optical system (an example of which is an axial optical volume lidar Doppler analyzer, referred to herein simply as "ALDA") that may include, for example, an optical transmitter and a receiver. In short, the ALDA may include an optical transmitter, such as a laser, that generates and emits pulsed or continuous energy streams that impinge on or irradiate a volume of interest, including any static or (one or more) flowing fluids present in the volume of interest. The ALDA's optical receiver may collect backscattered light energy and then estimate the backscattered energy and the Doppler shift of the echo.

[0042] More information on various aspects of Doppler lidar is available at https: / / www.sciencedirect.com / topics / earth-and-planetary-sciences / doppler-lidar, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. More specifically, according to one embodiment, the optical transmitter and receiver can be mounted within a mechanical device that may include orifices and control panels. This mechanical device can be mounted within pipes, conduits, or any system through which fluids (such as liquids, gases, emissions, aerosols, and / or particles) may travel. One embodiment of the ALDA can be mounted in a pipeline such that liquids, gases, and solids flowing in the pipeline pass through and / or surround the ALDA. In other embodiments, the ALDA can be mounted at a location where it is capable of measuring various aspects of flow in the pipeline, even if the ALDA may not be mounted in the pipeline. In some embodiments, multiple instances of the ALDA can be mounted at various locations throughout the piping system.

[0043] According to a specific implementation, the system can be installed such that the optics pass axially or longitudinally through the duct or system in which they are installed, or are located above or below the duct or system in which they are installed. Axial optical elements may include lidar (light detection and ranging) systems and / or other optics configured to transmit optical signals. LiDAR optics can transmit optical signals along the axial direction of the duct, through which, but not limited to, hydrocarbons such as gases, liquids, emissions, aerosols, and / or particles, flow. The transmission of the optical signal can be continuous energy or energy pulses, such as radiation, irradiation, or impact on the region of interest. A receiver can collect or receive data as backscattered energy. The receiver can then estimate the Doppler frequency shift of the backscattered material. The backscattered material can be molecules, particles, suspended solids, or liquids, and / or aerosols.

[0044] Results or data collected or derived from the Doppler shift and backscattering objects transmitted back to the optical receiver may include or be able to determine the volume of gas and liquid flowing through the system (i.e., volumetric flow rate), the size and dimensions of suspended solids and / or particles, the velocity flowing through the system, and the pressure of the fluid in the system.

[0045] One implementation of ALDA can be configured and operable to estimate the error between the average frequency, the number of detected incident backscattering objects (e.g., but not limited to aerosols), and the echo bandwidth. ALDA can be configured and operable to give the transmitter a narrow spectral width and optimal emission energy. Example spectral widths and wavelength ranges used in some implementations include spectral widths in the range of about 0.1 nm to about 2.0 nm, and any subranges falling within that range. Wavelengths used in example implementations, such as wavelengths generated by the transmitter, include wavelengths in the range of about 300 nm to about 1100 nm, and any subranges falling within that range.

[0046] The ALDA can be powered by a combination of various energy sources, including but not limited to natural gas, solar (photovoltaic), thermal energy, fuel cells, and electrical sources (such as power from batteries or direct connection to the grid). Data collected by the ALDA can be stored internally and / or transmitted to a host computer via Ethernet, Wi-Fi, or Bluetooth, or via a tethered cable connected to the ALDA. The host computer may include an HMI (Human Machine Interface), a PLC (Programmable Logic Controller), or a CPU (Central Processing Unit). Implementations may include a display to show information about ALDA operation.

[0047] C. Detailed discussion of various aspects of one or more implementation methods

[0048] Information regarding one or more exemplary embodiments of the present invention is now provided with reference to the accompanying drawings. This information is provided by way of illustration and is not intended to limit the scope of the invention in any way.

[0049] C.1 Well Site

[0050] First go to Figure 1An example well site 100 is disclosed, and embodiments associated with well site 100 can be employed. Well site 100 may include one or more wells 102. Generally, hydrocarbons, water, and other waste generated at the borehole of well 102 can flow in a single pipeline to a high-pressure separation vessel, as described below. Well site 100 may also include a tank group 104, which may include one or more tanks 104a. Oil, gas, and water can be stored in the tank group 104. Inside the tank group 104, oil, gas, and water undergo further natural separation. For example, oil can be collected from the tank group 104 and transported to a sales location by truck or pipeline. Additionally, water can also be collected from the tank group 104 and transported to a disposal site by truck or pipeline. With the additional residence time in tank 104a, additional gas emerges from the solution of both water and oil. This gas rises to the top of tank 104a and may be referred to herein as “tank gas vapor”.

[0051] Well site 100 may also include a water pipeline 106. The water pipeline 106 may or may not be included within the tank assembly 104. The water pipeline 106 is used to transport water from tank 104a to trucks for towing away for disposal or treatment. A sales pipeline 108, or pipeline for the midstream oil and gas portion of the system, or simply “midstream,” may be connected to the tank assembly 104. The sales pipeline 108 can be used to transport hydrocarbons and some water to midstream facilities or directly to the sales location. Well site 100 may also include a low-pressure (LP) pipeline 110. Steam, exhaust gases, and other gases can be discharged from the top of the tank assembly 104 and enter the LP pipeline 110, from where they can be delivered to a combustion unit or VRU. An electrical and communication station 112 may also be located at well site 100. The electrical, communication, and control systems of well site 100 may be located at the electrical and communication station 112.

[0052] Continue to refer to Figure 1 For example, well site 100 may include a high-pressure (HP) container 114, which may include or contain a processor / separator. Generally, HP container 114 is a location for separating oil, water, and gas. Oil and water may be transported to tank group 104 along with small amounts of gas dissolved in the liquid. High-pressure gas can be transported from well 102 to a sales location or combustion chimney, as described below. HP container 114 and the high-pressure lines connected thereto are configured to handle high-pressure gas and liquid.

[0053] In the example configuration, three fluid lines can be connected to HP container 114. The first of these three fluid lines can be oil line 114a, which is used to deliver oil to tank 104a of tank group 104. Another of the three fluid lines can be water line 114b. Water line 114b is used to deliver water to tank 104a of tank group 104. The third line (not shown) can include an HP line for gas sales or combustion. This HP line can be used to deliver water to the sales location or combustion unit, an example of which will be discussed below. In the event of a system failure, liquid can be delivered to the combustion unit through this third line.

[0054] like Figure 1 As shown, well site 100 may also include an HP line 116 connected to HP container 114. HP line 116 is used to deliver high-pressure liquid or gas to the combustion chimney. Well site 100 may also include one or more separators 118. Separators 118 may be configured such that liquids and / or solids falling from the flow path can be expelled from the gas as it travels to the combustion chimney 120. Separators 118 may be present on both the HP line and the LP line of well site 100.

[0055] Finally, well site 100 may include a combustion chimney 120. The combustion chimney 120 may serve as the final disposal site for gases and tank steam. At the combustion chimney 120, the gases may be ignited or, in small quantities, released into the atmosphere. The combustion chimney 120 may have two combustion devices, one for LP tank steam and one for HP pipeline 116.

[0056] C.2 LP / HP diagram from separator to combustion chimney without VRU

[0057] Figure 2 A sample LP / HP system 200 is disclosed. Unless otherwise stated, Figure 2 The components in this diagram may be similar to or the same as those discussed in conjunction with other diagrams.

[0058] exist Figure 2 In the example, line 202 can be provided, which can be used as either an LP line or an HP line, or both. When used as an LP line, line 202 can be used to receive steam and exhaust gases escaping from the top of tank group 104 (see [link to example]). Figure 1 Line 202, when used as an HP line, can be operated to deliver high-pressure liquids or gases to a combustion chimney. It should be noted that, as used herein, "low" and "high" pressure are not limited to any particular pressure or pressure range. An example of low pressure is approximately 0.01 oz / psi, and an example of high pressure is approximately 30,000 psi.

[0059] Continue to refer to Figure 2 The LP / HP system 200 may include one or more connectors 204 for connecting pipes, tubes, and fittings together. Examples of connectors that may be used in one embodiment include those... The trademarked connectors sold (https: / / www.victaulic.com / ), such as rigid connectors. Any connectors described herein may include... Connectors. Flange connections may also be used alternatively. Various pipe fittings, such as elbows 206, can be employed, and these fittings may include, for example, welded or flanged connections. A separator 208 may be provided, at which liquids and / or solids can drop from the flow path and be expelled from the gas as it travels to the combustion chimney. As shown, aerosols and suspended particles / solids (collectively denoted by 210) may sometimes be present in the separator 208. It should be noted that in one embodiment, various materials 210 can cause the generation of backscattered energy, which can be detected by an optical receiver of one embodiment of ALDA. The separator 208 may also sometimes contain various liquids 212. These liquids may be liquids that have dropped from a suspension in the system and are now contained in the separator 208.

[0060] Example LP / HP system 200 may include or be connected to combustion pit 214. Generally, combustion pit 214 may contain combustion devices and form a barrier for safety purposes. Combustion pit 214 may be located below combustion chimney 216. Combustion chimney 216 may be the final system through which exhaust gases or emission gases pass before being released into the atmosphere. Combustion chimney 216 is where the gases can be ignited and released into the atmosphere.

[0061] Aspects of an Example Implementation of C.3ALDA

[0062] Now pay attention Figure 3 An example optical volumetric lidar Doppler analyzer (ALDA) 300 according to one embodiment of the present invention is disclosed. The example ALDA 300 may include various components, and example embodiments thereof will be discussed below in turn.

[0063] C.3.1 Mechanical Aspects

[0064] like Figure 3 As shown, the ALDA300 may include a board housing cover 302. The board housing cover 302 may be fastened, for example, to a board housing housing 306 including an electrical connector 308 using board housing fasteners 304, and conform to the rear portion of the board housing housing 306. The board housing cover 302 may have ports or machining paths therethrough, which allow instruments, connectors, plugs, or accessories to be incorporated within the board housing cover 302.

[0065] Materials used to manufacture the cover 302 may include, but are not limited to, aluminum, manganese, zinc, or other bronze alloys, as well as nickel alloys and combinations of nickel with materials such as iron, chromium, copper, or molybdenum, and also include stainless steel alloys and combinations of nickel, copper, or manganese, as well as combinations of aluminum alloys and zinc, copper, or iron, and other materials such as iron, titanium, polymers or plastics, carbon fibers, and tin. In terms of its manufacture, the cover 302 may be cast, machined from solid materials, or 3D printed or manufactured using processes such as additive manufacturing.

[0066] As described above, the cover plate 302 can be releasably fastened to the cover plate housing 306 using the cover plate fastener 304. The cover plate fastener 304 may or may not be made of the same / similar material as the cover plate 302.

[0067] Electrical connector 308 can be used to connect power, communication signals, and control signals from ALDA 300 to a host computer or to other external sources, such as, but not limited to, a PLC, HMI, or CPU. Electrical connector 308 can be hermetically sealed to board housing cover 302, or sealed using an epoxy resin bonded to a metal, or sealed by incorporating a polymer or plastic seal around the OD of electrical connector 308, or sealed by the ID of the interface between electrical connector 308 and board housing 306. In one embodiment, electrical connector 308 may include an antenna to enable remote communication between ALDA 300 and other systems and devices, including the host computer, such as via Bluetooth and / or Wi-Fi communication.

[0068] The shroud housing 306 may contain a CPU, control board, PCB (printed circuit board), chassis, and multiple machined, cast, or 3D printed interfaces to allow components to be implemented within the body of the shroud housing 306. Materials used to manufacture the shroud housing 306 may include aluminum, manganese, zinc, or other bronze alloys, as well as nickel alloys or combinations of nickel with materials such as iron, chromium, copper, and molybdenum, stainless steel alloys and combinations of nickel, copper, and manganese, and combinations of aluminum alloys with zinc, copper, and iron. Other materials may include iron, titanium, polymers and plastics, carbon fiber, and tin. The shroud housing 306 may be cast, machined from solid materials, 3D printed, or manufactured using processes such as additive manufacturing.

[0069] Continue to refer to Figure 3Example ALDA 300 may include a board chassis 310. Board chassis 310 may be configured and operable to contain a CPU, a PCB, or any other board(s) required to implement instruments that can be incorporated into ALDA 300. An example of such a board is a control board 312. In one embodiment, control board 312 may be a flat and insulated surface that may have switches, meters, diodes, storage devices, data storage devices, transistors, processors, dial pads, or any microchips required to manage the control, communication, and storage of electrical components and devices associated with ALDA 300.

[0070] C.3.2 Optical Aspects

[0071] like Figure 3 As shown, the ALDA 300 may include various optical components and various types of optical interfaces. For example, a fiber optic connector 314 may be provided for connecting optical components to a board, such as a control board 312. In particular, the fiber optic connector 314 can connect the optical transmitter and optical receiver, discussed below, to the control board 312. Another fiber optic connector 316 may be provided, which connects the control board 312 to a connector or antenna that sends data to / receives data from a host server or other system communicating with the ALDA 300.

[0072] A plate housing flange 318 may be provided for connecting the plate housing housing 306 to the optical housing, examples of which will be discussed below. The plate housing flange 318 may be fastened, nailed, or fused to the optical housing by means of welding or brazing. The plate housing flange 318 may also have a seal incorporated into the mating or fitting surfaces that mate with the optical housing. The seal may be, for example, a polymer, ceramic, or a metal-to-metal seal created by torque applied to the fastener.

[0073] The plate cover flange 318 can be manufactured such that it is integral with the plate cover housing 306, which eliminates the need to fasten the plate cover flange 318 to the plate cover housing 306. Materials used to manufacture the plate cover flange 318 may include aluminum, manganese, zinc, and other bronze alloys, as well as nickel alloys or combinations of nickel with materials such as iron, chromium, copper, and molybdenum, and stainless steel alloys or combinations of nickel, copper, and manganese. Other materials may include aluminum alloys and combinations of zinc, copper, and iron, while other materials may also include iron, titanium, polymers or plastics, carbon fiber, and tin. The plate cover flange 318 and any other metal or plastic components disclosed herein may be cast, machined from solid materials, 3D printed, or manufactured using processes such as additive manufacturing. The plate cover flange 318 can be attached to the plate cover housing 306 using one or more fasteners 320.

[0074] like Figure 3 As shown, an optical connector 322 can be provided to connect a cable or pigtail connector 314 to the optical transmitter and optical receiver. The optical connector 322 can be soldered into place and be a permanent fixture, or it can be connected using a plug connection. The optical connector 322 may include connections for transmitting power, communication signals, and control signals. Additionally, an optical sleeve 324 may be included, having a surface that engages with a plate housing flange 318. This surface can be hermetically sealed, surrounded by an O-ring or gasket-type seal, bonded to the metal by compression or torque applied to a thin metal gasket, or epoxy-bonded to the metal or material forming the plate housing flange 318. This engagement holds the optical transmitter and optical receiver, discussed below, in place such that they are concentric with a window or area of ​​interest through which the optical receiver can collect and record data, such as backscattered information.

[0075] The optical housing cover 326 can mate with the optical housing (examples of which will be discussed below) and can be fastened, nailed, or fused to the optical housing. Once these components are installed and sealed into the plate housing flange 318, the optical housing cover 326 can slide off the optical transmitter and optical receiver. The optical housing cover 326 may have an incorporated seal to prevent external contaminants from entering the optical housing. In addition to the optical transmitter and optical receiver passages, the optical housing cover 326 may have channels, pathways, or multiple interfaces machined or 3D printed onto its surface to allow additional instruments or components to interface with or assist in the operation of the ALDA 300. Such instruments and components that can be incorporated into the optical housing cover 326 may include, but are not limited to, temperature sensors, heating elements, coolant systems, and pressure sensors. One or more optical housing fasteners 328 may be provided for securing the optical housing cover 326 to the optical housing; an example of which will be discussed below.

[0076] The materials used to manufacture the optical housing cover 326 can be aluminum, manganese, zinc, or other bronze alloys, as well as nickel alloys and combinations of nickel with materials such as iron, chromium, copper, and molybdenum. Alternatively, they can include stainless steel alloys and combinations of nickel, copper, and manganese, as well as aluminum alloys and combinations of zinc, copper, and iron. Other materials can include iron, titanium, polymers or plastics, carbon fibers, and tin. The optical housing cover 326 can be cast, machined from solid materials, 3D printed, or manufactured using processes such as additive manufacturing.

[0077] An optical housing seal 330 can be provided to prevent contaminants from entering the ALDA 300. The optical housing seal 330 can be made of polymer or plastic, ceramic, or epoxy resin adhesive. Example optical housing seals 330 include, but are not limited to, O-rings. Generally, in this document, components to be connected can be configured such that line pressure is applied to the components in such a way that a fluid-tight connection is maintained between the components until the line pressure is released.

[0078] As previously described, one embodiment of the ALDA 300 may include an optical housing 332 that can accommodate an optical transmitter 334 and an optical receiver 336, etc. The optical housing 332 may be configured and operable to include a goggle or narrow tunnel through which the optical transmitter 334 can emit a beam, and a small tunnel through which the optical receiver 336 can receive backscattered light. Figure 3 The corresponding arrows indicate that the optical transmitter 334 emits a beam and the optical receiver 336 receives the backscattered signal. In one embodiment, the lens, collimator, and other passive optical devices can be incorporated into the optical housing goggle.

[0079] Continue to refer to Figure 3 The optical transmitter 334 can be located within the optical housing 332 and can be configured and operable to emit a light beam, or laser beam, or other optical signal. The light beam can be any color, such as red, yellow, blue, green, or orange. The color of the laser beam can be changed depending on the application. For example, a green laser that can emit a signal that remains coherent over long distances can be used for low-visibility or dark applications; a red laser can be used for short-wavelength and short-range applications; a blue laser has a shorter wavelength but can be used for applications requiring relatively high resolution. Generally, the example implementation can employ any electromagnetic signal transmitter capable of transmitting signals within the electromagnetic spectrum, which can be used for fluid volume measurement of stationary / moving fluids. Therefore, the implementation is not limited to using a laser.

[0080] Generally, when a beam emitted by the ALDA300 transmitter hits a moving target (e.g., a fluid moving toward or away from the ALDA300), the specific wavelength of the backscattered or reflected light generated by the target will vary or shift depending on the circumstances, being higher or lower than the wavelength of the initial emitted beam. This can be given by the following formula: f = (c ± vrc ± vs)fo, where c is the amplitude of the wave in the medium; vr is the velocity of the receiver relative to the medium (positive if the receiver is moving toward the source, negative if the receiver is moving in the opposite direction), vs is the velocity of the source relative to the medium (positive if the source is moving away from the receiver, negative if the source is moving in the opposite direction), f is the observed frequency, and f0 is the emitted frequency. It should be noted that frequency (f) = 1 / T (period of a single oscillation - time), and the wave velocity v is the distance the wave travels per unit time (or λ / T), therefore v = f·λ.

[0081] The optical receiver 336 may include a detector, such as a photodiode or photomultiplier, which may be located within the optical housing 332 and configured and operable to receive backscattered energy and convert fractional information into an electrical signal based on the fraction of (backscattered energy (received by the optical receiver 336) / emitted energy (emitted by the optical transmitter 334)), which can then be used to estimate the Doppler shift of the echo data.

[0082] More specifically, lidar with Doppler frequency shift (optical detection and ranging) can be used to measure flow rate by detecting the movement of particles in a fluid or gas. The Doppler effect refers to the change in frequency of a wave (in this case, a laser beam) when there is relative motion between the wave source and the observer. When the laser beam is pointed at a fluid or gas, particles in the fluid or gas scatter the light in different directions.

[0083] By analyzing the frequency shift of the scattered light, lidar can determine the velocity of particles. This velocity can then be used to calculate the flow rate of a fluid or gas. Specifically, lidar measures the Doppler shift of the backscattered laser light by comparing the frequency of the scattered light with the frequency of the transmitted light.

[0084] In flow rate measurement, lidar is typically positioned so that the laser beam is axially pointed, usually parallel to the flow direction. This allows lidar to detect the velocity of particles moving in the flow. By measuring the velocity of a large number of particles over time, lidar can then calculate the average flow rate of the fluid or gas.

[0085] In one embodiment, one or more fasteners 338 may be used to connect the plate housing flange 318 to the optical housing 340. The optical housing 340 may be configured and operable to include and accommodate components such as an optical transmitter 334 and an optical receiver 336, as well as a window 342 that is transparent to light signals. The optical housing 340 may also be configured and operable such that it directly contacts the surface of an opening, pipe, housing, or area where the ALDA 300 may be transmitting and receiving data. The optical housing 340 may also contain other instruments, such as, but not limited to, temperature sensors, heating elements, coolant systems, and pressure sensors.

[0086] The materials used to manufacture the optical housing 340 can be, but are not limited to, aluminum, manganese, zinc, and other bronze alloys, as well as nickel alloys or combinations of nickel with materials such as iron, chromium, copper, and molybdenum. Other materials include stainless steel alloys and combinations of nickel, copper, and manganese, or aluminum alloys and combinations of zinc, copper, and iron, as well as other materials such as iron, titanium, polymers and plastics, carbon fiber, and tin. The optical housing 340 can be cast, machined from solid materials, 3D printed, or manufactured using processes such as additive manufacturing.

[0087] As described above, the optical housing 340 may be fitted with a window 342. The window 342 may be configured in any suitable shape and size. The window 342 may be incorporated into the ALDA 300 to allow the transmitter beam to pass through and to return backscattered energy, including one or more optical signals, to the optical receiver 336. The window 342 may also be combined with electrodes or heating elements configured and operable to prevent fogging of the window 342 and to help ensure that condensation does not accumulate on the surface of the window 342. A coating may also be added to the surface of the window 342 to help prevent the accumulation of condensation and fog. The material of the window 342 may be sapphire, glass, laminated, colored, annealed polyvinyl butyral, or resin. The material of the window 342 may be heat-strengthened, tempered, or heat-insulated.

[0088] Continue to refer to Figure 3The ALDA 300 may include a flange seal 344 (which may be in the form of an O-ring) to ensure that no contaminants escape from or enter the ALDA 300. An adapter flange 346 allows the ALDA 300 to be mounted on a conduit, housing, or any opening leading to a source that the ALDA 300 may need to collect data from. The adapter flange 346 can be incorporated into the system or equipment to which the ALDA 300 is to be connected. The flange seal 344 seals the adapter flange 346 to the optical housing 340, and the adapter flange 346 and the optical housing 340 are connected together by flange fasteners 348. Finally, the adapter flange 346 may define an aperture 350 or be positioned as another opening for optical communication with the window 342, allowing light signals to pass back and forth through the adapter flange 346.

[0089] C.4ALDA (Field Assembly)

[0090] Now for reference Figure 4 An example ALDA 400 assembled and mounted on fitting 402 (e.g., a T-fitting) is disclosed, but more generally, the ALDA 400 can be mounted on any pipe or fitting to which the ALDA 400 can be mechanically connected. Unless otherwise stated, the ALDA 400 can be used with... Figure 3 The example ALDA 300 disclosed herein and described above is similar to or the same.

[0091] Once installed, the ALDA 400 can be powered on and ready to begin emitting its beam along the conduit (i.e., relative to the conduit axis). The ALDA 400 can be mounted to emit its beam with or against the flow of gas and exhaust. The ALDA 400 can be configured and operated to incorporate an adapter flange that allows it to be installed on conduits of various sizes, as well as on exhaust and venting systems. The ALDA 400 can be configured and operated so that it can be installed within the conduit, eliminating the need to monitor, or discharge, gases, liquids, or exhausts that have escaped into the atmosphere or otherwise exited the conduit.

[0092] In one embodiment, the T-fitting 402 can be connected to another component via a connector 404. Generally, components or fittings can be oriented and / or alter the direction of fluid flow through the system. Elbows or T-sections allow the ALDA 400 to be installed into the system. Figure 4 In the examples, ALDA 400 can be used with, for example Figure 3 The ALDA 300 shown is attached to the adapter flange 346 in the same or similar manner as the T-fitting 402. (Continue to refer to...) Figure 4 For example, flow direction 406 is the direction in which one or more fluids (such as gas, steam, emissions, and exhaust gases) flow in a fluid conduit such as a pipe.

[0093] like Figure 4 As shown, in one embodiment, the optical emitter of the ALDA400 can emit a light beam or light signal 408, either along the conduit, i.e., in a direction parallel to the flow direction, or within a range of approximately 0 to 10 degrees away from the flow direction, to perform an optical scan. The execution of "optical scan" as used herein can involve the emission of a light signal, such as by a laser or other optical emitter. More specifically, optical scan includes the process of using a scanning device (such as a scanner or lidar) to capture an image or data from an object using light. This can be achieved by directing a light signal onto the object and measuring the reflected or absorbed light. The reflected or absorbed light can then be detected by a sensor, and the obtained data can be used to create an image or capture information about the object.

[0094] In one embodiment, for example, the color of the optical signal beam can be red, green, yellow, orange, or blue. The optical transmitter can emit the beam and perform an optical scan in or against the flow direction 406. The optical transmitter beam can be configured to have a narrow spectral width, high coherence, and maximum emission energy to produce more precise and accurate surveys and measurements. Figure 4 As further shown, backscattering 410 caused by the reflection of light signals by the material in the pipe may return to the optical receiver. Backscattering 410 may include high-energy electrons or photons, which may be generated by scattering events produced by incident electrons within the emitter beam.

[0095] C.5 Separator to Combustion Chimney (On-site Assembly Diagram)

[0096] Figure 5 A portion 500 of an exhaust system is disclosed, which includes a separator and ducts for gas and exhaust streams. Figure 5 A pre-assembly schematic diagram is disclosed, in which the elbow portions of the piping system can be replaced with T-shaped portions of the pipes that allow the ALDA 502 to be installed. Specifically, the adapter flange 504 allows the ALDA 502 to be connected to pipes or any other components 506 that carry or lead to fluid(s) from which the ALDA 502 can collect data. Figure 5 In the example, component 506 includes a T-fitting, but may alternatively include an elbow fitting. Generally, fittings such as elbows and T-fittings can orient and / or change the flow direction of fluid through the system. Component 506 can be connected to another component via one or more connectors 508.

[0097] Example section 500 may include separator 510. Separator 510 may be installed at or define a low point in section 500 or other systems and may be used as a phase separator for separating oil, water, and gas. Separator 510 can achieve three-phase separation, wherein liquid and solids fall to the bottom of separator 510, while gas, aerosol, or suspended solids remain in the flow stream and may then be discharged, discharged, burned, or captured, for example, by a VRU downstream of separator 510.

[0098] Example section 500 may also include an elbow 512 connected in section 500 via a connector 508. Elbow 512 may be used to direct emissions, exhaust gases, or gases from separator 510 to a combustion unit or VRU. Finally, example section 500 may include conduit 514. Depending on the vapor pressure and / or rate of the gas or liquid flowing through the conduit system including section 500, conduit 514 may include an LP conduit or an HP conduit.

[0099] C.6 Separator to Combustion Unit (Assembly Elevation)

[0100] Figure 6 Example section 600 of the exhaust system is disclosed, in which the elbow has been replaced by a T-section and ALDA (compare). Figure 5 (Example). Example section 600 may include conduit 602, which may carry HP or LP material depending on the vapor pressure and / or rate of the gas or liquid flowing through the conduit system including section 600. Coupler 604 may connect conduit 602 to elbow 606. Elbow 606 may include a conduit fixing device that directs the flow of emissions, exhaust gases, or gases from a source (such as a combustion source, tank bank, or well(one or more)) to separator 608.

[0101] Separator 608 can be used as a phase separator and can separate oil, water, and gas. Separator 608 can achieve three-phase separation, where liquid and solids fall to the bottom of separator 608, and gas, aerosol, or suspended solids remain in the flowing stream and can then be discharged, discharged, burned, or captured, for example, by a VRU. Connector 610 can connect separator 608 to a T-fitting of ALDA 612. ALDA 612 can in turn be connected to pipe 616 via another connector 614. Depending on the vapor pressure and / or rate of the gas or liquid flowing through the piping system including section 600, pipe 616 can include LP pipe or HP pipe.

[0102] C.7ALDA Alternative Installation Options

[0103] Please note now. Figure 7The invention discloses an alternative method for installing an ALDA in a gas or emission system. The example system 700 can be installed from either side of the duct. The installed ALDA can have a prism or reflector incorporated into the system, which can be angled at 45 degrees to allow energy to and from the emitter to be transmitted at 90 degrees. The prism or reflector can also be configured and operable to tilt or be manipulated or rotated by a moving device to allow for optimal beam direction or redirection. The use of a prism or reflector enables the ALDA's optical emitter to emit light signals in or against the flow direction.

[0104] like Figure 7 As shown, example system 700 may include conduit 702, which, depending on the application, may transport high-pressure fluid, low-pressure fluid, exhaust gas, or other emissions. Conduit 702 may be connected to ALDA 706 via connector 704. ALDA 706 may include adapter flange 708, which allows ALDA 706 to be mounted on conduits, fittings, or other components through which fluid flows, and ALDA 706 can be used to collect data from the fluid. Adapter flange 708 may define an aperture 710 through which optical signals can pass.

[0105] Example system 700 may include a prism 712 configured and arranged to orient or redirect a light beam emitted by an optical emitter. Prism 712 may also be configured to orient or redirect backscattered energy beams from a source back to an optical receiver, the optical emitter directing the light beam or optical signal toward the source. Prism 712 may be configured and operable to rotate, spin, twirl, or otherwise undergo changes in position / or orientation to orient and / or redirect the optical signal or beam, regardless of the source or direction of travel of the optical signal or beam. Prism 712 may be made of any suitable material, such as glass or silicate, and may be coated. In one embodiment, one or more mirrors may be used instead of prism 712.

[0106] Continue to refer to Figure 7 The optical emitter of the ALDA706 can project a beam 714 through an aperture 710 onto a prism 712. The prism 712 then directs the beam 714 along the flow direction or axial direction to radiate longitudinally along the pipe. For example, the beam color can be red, green, yellow, orange, or blue. The optical emitter can project its beam 714 and perform optical scanning along or against the flow direction. The beam of the optical emitter can have a narrow spectral width with maximum emission energy to produce more precise and accurate surveys and measurements.

[0107] The light beam 714 can be scattered by the fluid and / or solid in the pipe. Therefore, a backscattered light signal 716 can be generated and returned to the optical receiver of ALDA 706. The backscattered signal, or simply "backscattered," can include high-energy electrons or photons, which may be generated by scattering events when electrons reflected from the fluid or solid in the pipe are incident on electrons in the light beam generated by the optical emitter. The backscattered signal returns through window 718, is then oriented by prism 712m through aperture 710, and returns to the optical receiver.

[0108] Window 718 can be of any suitable shape or size. Window 718 can be incorporated into ALDA 706 to allow the beam of the optical emitter to pass through and to allow the backscattered light signal to return to the optical receiver of ALDA 706. Window 718 may also include electrodes or heating elements configured and operable to prevent fogging of window 718 and to ensure that condensation does not accumulate on the surface of window 718. A coating may also be added to the surface of window 718 to help prevent the accumulation of condensation and fog. The material of window 718 may include sapphire, laminated glass, colored glass, annealed glass, polyvinyl butyral, or resin. The material of window 718 may be heat-strengthened, tempered, or insulated.

[0109] The window housing 720 can be configured and operable to house the window 718, prism 712, temperature sensor, pressure sensor, or any instrument required for the operation of the ALDA 706. The window housing 720 may also have a motor, gear, or mechanism configured to change the position and orientation of the prism 712. For example, a motor can be used to rotate or manipulate the prism 712 to orient or redirect the optical signal. The window housing 720 can be integrated with the ALDA 706 as a single unit, or it can be implemented as a separate component fastened to or connected to the ALDA 706.

[0110] The material used for the window housing 720 can be aluminum, manganese, zinc, or other bronze alloys, as well as nickel alloys and combinations of nickel with materials such as iron, chromium, copper, and molybdenum. Other materials may include stainless steel alloys and combinations of nickel, copper, and manganese, as well as aluminum alloys and combinations of zinc, copper, and iron. Other materials may also include iron, titanium, polymers and plastics, carbon fiber, and tin. The window housing 720 can be cast, machined from solid materials, 3D printed, or manufactured using processes such as additive manufacturing.

[0111] It should be noted that in embodiments of the present invention, any other element configured and operable to direct optical signals or other electromagnetic signals may be used. Therefore, embodiments of the present invention are not limited to using prism 712. Other embodiments may employ, for example, one or more mirrors to direct the signal.

[0112] Example system 700 may include a connection 722 from ALDA to the housing. The connection 722 from ALDA to the housing may be fastened with fasteners such as bolts and screws. The connection 722 from ALDA to the housing may also be connected by sleeves, collars, one or more pins, welding, or interference fits.

[0113] Finally, Figure 7 In the example, fluid flow 724 may pass through example system 700 in the direction shown. Generally, the flow direction is the direction in which one or more fluids (such as gas, steam, emissions, or exhaust gases) flow.

[0114] C.8 Example ALDA Operation

[0115] Figure 8 An example ALDA system 800 installed within an exhaust system 900 is disclosed, the exhaust system 900 being focused on the operation of ALDA. This is presented by way of illustration and is not intended to limit the scope of the invention.

[0116] on the whole, Figure 8 A specific example discloses the emission of a light beam 801 along the axial direction of a pipe via an optical emitter. The flow direction of the pipe is upward toward and away from the ALDA 800. The gas flow includes small particles, aerosols, or suspended solids suspended in and flowing within the gas or exhaust fluid flow. The light beam 801 may impact or contact particles flowing through the system, and data from this contact may be returned to the optical receiver as backscattered energy 803. The optical receiver can then estimate the returned backscattered energy and Doppler shift. This returned data can be transmitted to a CPU, where it is analyzed. The captured data may include accurate measurements of the volume of gas or exhaust flowing through the system, as well as the velocity and time of each measurement. Such measurements or results may be continuous or time-controlled. Results may be represented in various forms, such as text, visual forms such as graphics, and any other form that conveys information collected and / or generated by the ALDA 800. In some implementations, the ALDA 800 can perform measurement operations by detecting fluid and / or fluid flow in a pipeline or component that is in fluid communication with the location of the ALDA 800.

[0117] More specifically, in one operating mode, the ALDA 800 directs light / energy / radiation to strike one or more materials in the pipeline—the reflected or returned energy from the impact may be only a fraction of the emitted energy. In particular, example embodiments may consider the fundamental relationship between the error in the estimated average frequency shift, the bandwidth of the returned energy, and the number of incident backscattered photons detected. For this purpose, the optical receiver of the ALDA 800 can implement a frequency analysis function that can be used to perform two detection techniques: (1) coherent detection of backscattered energy within the receiver—this method can mix backscattered radiation with oscillating laser radiation and digitize and spectrally process the detector output signal, which can be a function of the received backscattered energy; and (2) direct detection—this method may involve an embodiment of the ALDA that includes an interferometer capable of optically analyzing the backscattered radiation.

[0118] Regarding the measurement and use of Doppler shift, when the ALDA 800 is located in a pipe or other volume of interest, it can scan that volume and capture the exact volume of fluid flowing through a specific orifice, opening, pipe, or other component. As described below, this scanning can determine the volumetric flow rate, or simply the “flow rate” within the volume of interest. The volume of the fluid can be provided, rather than calculated. As the flow then passes through the volume of interest, any aerosols, solids, molecules, particles, or objects suspended in the flow can be detected by the ALDA 800, which can determine the velocity of these detected materials. Given the fluid volume and velocity, the flow rate can be determined using Q = V·a (where Q is the flow rate, V is the velocity, and 'a' is the area of ​​the opening through which the flow passes). When the beam strikes a moving target moving toward or away from the ALDA 800, the specific wavelength of the scattered or reflected light produced by the target will change or shift. This describes how the Doppler effect works when incorporated into lidar.

[0119] In one embodiment, the execution of an optical scan may include a variety of operations. Generally, performing an optical scan using a lidar may include the process of acquiring a 3D (three-dimensional) point cloud of the environment using laser pulses. More specifically, the execution of an optical scan as described herein may include a variety of operations, including but not limited to: [1] emitting laser pulses—the lidar emits short pulses of laser light, which may be in the form of a fan-shaped or cylindrical beam—the pulses may be emitted at a high frequency, such as several thousand pulses per second; [2] scanning the environment—as the laser pulses travel through the environment, they may be reflected from surfaces, fluids, particles, and / or other materials, resulting in backscattered signals that return to the lidar sensor—the timing and direction of the laser pulses emitted into / through the environment may be controlled to ensure that they cover the desired area and capture accurate data; [3] measuring time of flight—the lidar measures the time of flight of the laser pulses as they travel through surfaces, fluids, particles, and / or (one or more) other materials, reflecting backscattered signals as they return to the lidar sensor. / or (one or more) other materials and then the required time to return - such time-of-flight measurements can be used to calculate the distance from the lidar device to the surface, fluid, particle, and / or (one or more) other materials, and to calculate the 3D location in space of one or more points on the surface, fluid, particle, and / or (one or more) other materials, at which the initial directional light signal is initiated; [4] generate point clouds - lidar sensors can collect thousands, hundreds of thousands, millions, or more individual distance measurements per second, which can be combined to form a dense 3D point cloud of the scanned environment - each point in the point cloud represents a surface or object struck by a laser pulse; and [5] process the data - point cloud data can be processed using specialized software to filter out noise, remove outliers, and generate a smooth and accurate representation of the scanned environment, such as a 3D representation.

[0120] Now continue with the reference. Figure 8For example, an optical housing 802 may house an optical transmitter 804. The optical housing may be configured and operable to be incorporated into a goggle, or a narrow tunnel through which the emitted beam from the transmitter passes and through which backscattered light collected by the receiver passes. A lens may be incorporated into the goggle within the optical housing. The optical transmitter 804 may include a laser or other device capable of emitting optical signals and may be located within the optical housing 802. The beam emitted by the optical transmitter 804 (which may be a laser beam) may be red, yellow, blue, green, or orange. The color of the beam may be varied depending on the application. The optical transmitter is operable to emit an optical signal with a narrow spectral width. The beam may be transmitted through a lens 806, which may be used to focus the beam generated by the optical transmitter 804. The lens may be configured and operable to have various thicknesses. The lens 806 may include a generator lens, an aspherical lens, or a cylindrical lens.

[0121] After passing through lens 806 (when provided), the light signal from optical emitter 804 can pass through window 808. Window 808 can be of any suitable shape or size. Window 808 can be incorporated into ALDA 800 to allow light beam 801 from optical emitter 804 to pass through and to allow backscattered energy 803 to return to optical receiver, examples of which will be discussed below. The window can also incorporate electrodes or heating elements configured and operable to prevent fogging of the window and ensure that condensation does not accumulate on the window surface. A coating can also be added to the surface of the window to help prevent condensation and fogging from accumulating on its surface. Window 808 can be made of materials used for constructing windows as identified elsewhere in this document.

[0122] Continue to pay attention Figure 8 The light beam 801 can be generated by the optical emitter 804 and transmitted through the lens 806, the window 808, and along the axial direction of the pipe. The light beam 801 can interact with materials and / or phenomena (collectively denoted by 805) present in the pipe (e.g., aerosols, suspended solids, fluids, particles), and this interaction can manifest as a change in the wavelength of the light beam 801, caused, for example, by turbulence and / or flow direction of the materials traveling through the system. One or more materials interacting with the light beam 801 travel with the flow of exhaust gas, gaseous material, or emissions.

[0123] The interaction between beam 801 and the material in the conduit may cause partial reflection and redirection of beam 801, which may include photons and / or electrons. One or more redirected portions of beam 801 may interact with beam 801 itself to generate a backscattered signal 803 that may include photons and / or electrons. As described herein, backscattering may include high-energy electrons or photons, which may be generated by scattering events produced by incident electrons within the emitter beam 801. The backscattered signal 803 may be returned to an optical receiver, examples of which will be discussed below.

[0124] More specifically, backscattering involves particles in a fluid medium (such as air or water) reflecting or scattering light back to its source. In LiDAR (Light Detection and Ranging), backscattering occurs when a laser beam is emitted from a LiDAR sensor and strikes particles in the air or water, causing light to scatter in various directions. Some of this scattered light is then reflected back to the LiDAR sensor as a backscatter signal 803, where it is detected and analyzed. When LiDAR uses Doppler shift to measure volume and flow rate, it detects the backscattered light and analyzes the frequency shift. As particles move through a fluid or gas, they cause a Doppler shift in the frequency of the backscattered light. This shift can be used to measure the particle velocity and from which the flow rate and volume of the fluid or gas can be calculated.

[0125] To illustrate, in the case of a lidar system used to measure water flow in a river, the emitted laser beam strikes water particles, causing light scattering. Some of the scattered light is reflected back to the lidar sensor, where the frequency shift caused by the motion of the water particles is analyzed. By measuring the frequency shift, the lidar can determine the velocity of the water particles and use this information to calculate the river's flow rate.

[0126] Before reaching the optical receiver, the backscattered signal 803 can first pass through window 808 and then through lens 810. Lens 810 can be operated to focus the backscattered signal 803. Lens 810 can be configured and operated to have various thicknesses. The lens can be a generator lens, an aspherical lens, or a cylindrical lens. Various other passive optical elements, such as collimators, can be used to process one or more optical signals.

[0127] The optical receiver 812 that receives the backscattered signal 803 may include a detector, such as a photodiode, which may be located within an optical housing 802. The detector receives the backscattered signal 803 (which may include one or more optical signals) and converts the optical backscattered signal 803 into a corresponding electrical signal, which is a function of the backscattered energy. For example, the electrical signal may indicate the intensity of the backscattered energy or the Doppler shift of the backscattered signal 803.

[0128] C.9 Operation Flowchart

[0129] Now pay attention Figure 9 Details are provided relating to some example operations that the ALDA 900 can perform according to one embodiment of the invention. As shown, the ALDA 900 may include a pulse generator 902 that serves as an energy source that can provide power and control signals to an optical transmitter 904, which may include, for example, a laser, to cause the optical transmitter 904 to emit signals, which may include, for example, a light beam, ray, or light.

[0130] More specifically, the optical emitter 904 can generate an optical signal 906, which can be directed by the optical emitter 904 and / or other components such as a mirror or prism toward one or more materials 908 and / or a location (e.g., a location within a pipe or tube). In some embodiments, the pulse generator 902 and the optical emitter 904 can be combined in a single component. In one embodiment, for example, the optical signal 906 may include one or more pulses, or it may be emitted continuously.

[0131] One or more materials 908 may include objects and materials that may be struck by the light signal 906 emitted by the optical emitter 904. Specifically, these objects and materials may include, for example, aerosols, suspended solids, fluids, and particles, and any combination thereof. In some cases, due to the interaction between the light signal 906 and the materials 908, the wavelength and / or other characteristics of the light signal 906 may change due to phenomena such as, but not limited to, turbulence and / or the flow direction through the system. The materials 908 struck by the light signal 906 may travel with the flow of exhaust gases, gases, emissions, and / or other materials in the pipelines connected to the ALDA 900, for example, by entrainment.

[0132] like Figure 9 As shown, the interaction between the optical signal 906 and the material 908 in the pipeline may result in a backscattered signal 910, which includes the energy reflected by the material 908. The energy in the backscattered signal 910 can take various forms consistent with the properties of the initially emitted beam, such as, but not limited to, high-energy electrons or photons.

[0133] The backscattered signal 910 can be received by an optical receiver 912 of the ALDA 900. The optical receiver 912 can be located within an optical housing and can be configured and operable to receive data in the form of the backscattered signal 910, and further estimate the backscattered energy and Doppler shift of the backscattered signal 910. The optical receiver 912 may include a photodetector, such as a photodiode or other optoelectronic device, or a photomultiplier. More specifically, the optical receiver 912 can collect energy including the backscattered signal 910 and can convert that energy into an electrical signal that may include or contain data, provided that the electrical signal can indicate, for example, the intensity and amount of energy of the backscattered signal 910.

[0134] The electrical signal generated by the optical receiver 912 can be passed to the amplifier 914. The amplifier 914 can increase the amplitude and / or frequency of the signal generated by the optical receiver 912. The amplifier 914 can then send the amplified signal or data to the ADC 916 (analog-to-digital converter) and / or the CPU 918. The ADC 916 can convert, for example, the analog signal from the amplifier 914 into a digital signal, and the CPU 918 can be used to execute algorithms, send commands, send control signals, communicate with the system, store data, process data, and transmit data. In one embodiment, the CPU 918 can pass data to a data memory 920, which may include, for example, a database, to retain data in the event of a power outage in communication transmission between the ALDA 900 and the host server and / or other systems and devices.

[0135] Further attention is paid to amplifier 914. In one embodiment, amplifier 914 can be used to amplify the backscattered signal before sending it to analog-to-digital converter (ADC) 916. Amplifying the backscattered signal can improve the signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) of the received signal and ensure that ADC 916 can accurately digitize it. In one embodiment, the backscattered signal may be weak, especially if the lidar operates at long distances or under adverse conditions. Therefore, amplifier 914 can increase the amplitude of the received signal, i.e., the backscattered signal, making the signal easier to detect and analyze.

[0136] It should be noted that amplifier 914 may introduce noise and distortion into the amplified backscattered signal, and this noise and distortion may affect the accuracy of the measurement. Therefore, it may be important to carefully calibrate amplifier 914 and ensure that it is properly matched with the lidar system and its operating conditions. Once the signal is amplified, the amplified signal can be sent to ADC 916, which can be operated to convert the analog amplified signal into a digital signal that can be processed by a computer or other digital device. In one embodiment, ADC 916 can sample the signal at a fixed rate and quantize each sample into a digital value, which can be further processed and analyzed.

[0137] Continue to refer to Figure 9 It should be noted that the ADC 916 is not directly connected to the pulse generator 902. The pulse generator 902 is responsible for controlling the transmission of laser pulses used to scan the environment and measure the velocity of particles in a fluid or gas. The backscattered light from these laser pulses is then detected and amplified by the lidar receiver, and then digitized by the ADC 916. In one embodiment, the connection between the ADC 916 and the pulse generator 902 is indirect and can occur through a lidar control system, an example of which is shown in [example of lidar control system]. Figure 10 The information is disclosed at location 1006. In addition, the lidar control system can coordinate the timing and synchronization of laser pulse emission from the optical transmitter 904, operation of the lidar optical receiver 912, and sampling by the ADC 916 to ensure that the received signal is accurately digitized and can be processed to extract speed or flow information.

[0138] Specifically, the lidar control system according to one embodiment can be operated to set the timing and duration of laser pulse emission, the time delay between pulse emission and the start of sampling by the ADC 916, and the sampling rate of the ADC 916. These parameters can be calibrated and coordinated to ensure that the backscattered signal is accurately digitized and that the Doppler frequency shift measurement is precise and reliable.

[0139] C.10ALDA Electrical and Communication Processes

[0140] Next, turn to Figure 10 This provides details relating to example electrical / electronic equipment and communications according to an example implementation. Figure 10 The example control, command, and communication (C3) system 1000 is disclosed.

[0141] In some implementations, the C3 system 1000 may include one or more I2C or (one or more) CAN buses 1002, which may include one or more master controllers and a backbone network of at least two lines. In one implementation, these two lines may be a serial clock line to / from the bus 1002 and a serial data command line [1] and [2] respectively. The bus 1002 may use controllers, which are high-speed or low-speed electronic devices with simple commands with “start” and “stop” command parameters, combined with or supplemented with functions for writing and / or reading information (including but not limited to bits or bytes).

[0142] Referring more detailed examples of the "Start" and "Stop" commands, in a lidar system with Doppler frequency shift, these commands can be used to initiate and terminate the measurement of fluid velocity and / or flow rate, respectively. The "Start" command triggers the lidar system to emit a laser pulse and begin detecting backscattered light, while the "Stop" command signals the lidar system to stop emitting laser pulses and terminate the measurement.

[0143] In one embodiment, the "Start" command initiates a scanning process, an example of which is disclosed herein. The lidar system emits laser pulses at a fixed frequency, which are detected as backscattered light by the lidar system. When the laser pulses reflect off particles in a fluid or gas, a Doppler shift in the backscattered light is detected, and the particle velocity is calculated using this Doppler shift. The "Stop" command terminates the scanning process and stops emitting laser pulses. Once the scanning process is complete, the lidar system can perform additional processing on the digitized signal to extract more detailed information about velocity or flow rate, for example, by applying filtering to the digitized signal or performing spectral analysis. Generally, the "Start" and "Stop" commands can be controlled by a lidar control system that coordinates the operation of various lidar components to ensure accurate and reliable measurements. The lidar control system may also include additional features such as automatic gain control and noise filtering to further improve measurement accuracy.

[0144] Continue to refer to Figure 10For example, with multiple controllers, each controller other than the master controller can be designated as a slave controller / slave device. Commands to the slave controllers can originate from the master controller. The I2C protocol can have communication initiated by the master controller, an example of which will be discussed below. The master controller can first initiate a "start" condition and then read the address of the slave device. Based on the bits read from the slave device's address byte, the master controller can write to another slave device. Once all bytes have been read and / or written, the master controller can generate a "stop" condition, which can terminate communication with that particular device and enable / allow other devices to communicate on the I2C bus. This same protocol can be repeated, and the master controller can repeat the protocol or change the mode from write to read instead of ending communication with a "stop" condition.

[0145] In one implementation, bus 1002 may include a CAN (Controller Area Network) bus, a communication-based protocol that can be configured and operable to allow other control units (such as MCUs or PCBs) to communicate with each other. There may be a single line that handles all communication for the entire ALDA. The CAN bus may consist of two distinct lines. These two lines may correspond to "CAN high" and "CAN low".

[0146] More specifically, one implementation can operate a lidar system with Doppler frequency shift deviation from the CAN bus. In this case, the "CAN high" and "CAN low" lines can be used to transmit control and status information between the lidar system and other devices connected to the CAN bus. In one implementation, the CAN bus includes a serial communication protocol for enabling devices to communicate with each other. This protocol uses two lines, "CAN high" and "CAN low," to transmit differential signals representing digital data. These lines can be twisted together to reduce electromagnetic interference.

[0147] In one implementation of a lidar system with Doppler frequency shift, the CAN bus can be used to transmit command and control signals from a host computer or controller to the lidar system and to transmit status and measurement data from the lidar system back to the host device. For example, the host device can send a "start" command to the lidar system via the CAN bus to initiate the scanning process and can receive speed or flow data from the lidar system via the same bus. Similarly, the host device can monitor the status of the lidar system, such as its power supply voltage or temperature, via the CAN bus.

[0148] Therefore, when operating a lidar system with Doppler frequency shift deviating from the CAN bus, the "CAN high" and "CAN low" lines can be used to enable communication between the lidar system and other devices connected to the CAN bus, thereby enabling the back-and-forth transmission of control and status information.

[0149] Continue to refer to Figure 10 The C3 system 1000 may include a Layer 1 MCU 1004. The Layer 1 MCU 1004 may be incorporated to serve as a slave controller or other control device that communicates with the master controller 1006. The Layer 1 MCU 1004, commanded by the master controller 1006, may process control signals to other components or sensors within the system and communicate back to the master controller 1006.

[0150] The main controller 1006 may take the form of a lidar Doppler main controller, capable of handling all control and communication to / from the system (i.e., ALDA). The main controller 1006 may be programmed autonomously or controlled externally by commands from an external CPU or host server. The main controller 1006 may also have an onboard processor that allows programming the ALDA and analyzing the data collected by the ALDA. Such data may include, but is not limited to: (i) velocity data 1006a—the velocity of the fluid flow is collected by the ALDA and can be interpreted in the main controller 1006; (ii) volume data 1006b—once the flow velocity is collected, the main controller 1006 can interpret the volume of the fluid flow; and (iii) time data 1006c—the elapsed time can be recorded by the main controller 1006.

[0151] The 3C system 1000 may also include a LOG memory 1008, which the main controller 1006 can access. The LOG memory 1008 may be an onboard storage device for transmitting and / or storing data collected by ALDA. The host 1010 may communicate with the LOG memory 1008 to receive and / or retrieve data from it. The host 1010 may be an external device from which data from ALDA is sent. The host 1010 may include, for example, an HMI, CPU, or PLC, or other computing components or computing systems.

[0152] C.11 Schematic diagram of a well site with VRU

[0153] Figure 11 An example well site 1100 is disclosed, which includes a vapor recovery unit (VRU) discussed below. In short, the VRU can capture gases and emissions permitted by elements of well site 1100, such as well 1002 and tank group 1004. Except as described below, well site 1100 may be similar to or identical to well site 100 in terms of configuration, components, operation, and capabilities. Therefore, only selected aspects of well site 1100 are discussed in detail below.

[0154] As shown in the figure, well site 1100 may include one or more wells 1102, tank group 1104, water pipeline 1106, sales or midstream pipeline 1108, LP pipeline 1110, power and communication station 1112, HP separation vessel 1114, HP pipeline 1116, and separator 1118. Well site 1100 may also include a vapor recovery unit (VRU) 1120, which can be connected to tank group 1104 and HP separation vessel 1114 via HP pipeline 1116. In one embodiment, VRU 1120 may include a compressor operable to recover exhaust gases or emitted vapors from hydrocarbons and other fuels at well site 1100. The recovered fuel may be sold or reused.

[0155] Finally, the example well site 1100 may include a combustion chimney 1122. The combustion chimney 1122 may be the final destination for gases and / or tank steam. The gases may be ignited at the combustion chimney 1122, or, if the gas volume is small, may be vented into the atmosphere. The combustion chimney 1122 may include two combustion devices, one for low-pressure tank steam and one for discharging / igniting material received via HP line 1116.

[0156] The gas volume measured by C.12ALDA to the VRU

[0157] Figure 12 A system 1200 including an example ALDA is disclosed, wherein the system 1200 may include a low-pressure or high-pressure exhaust system, the exhaust system including a VRU. In one embodiment, the ALDA may be incorporated into the system 1200. Figure 12 In the example, the VRU's inlet valve is open, while the inlet valve of the combustion chimney or exhaust chimney is closed. The ALDA measures the volume and velocity of the gas or emissions flowing into the VRU. The system can be configured so that the ALDA can communicate electronically via Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, or a routed connection to either of the two inlet valves. The ALDA can measure the volume of gas or emissions flowing through the system and communicate with the combustion-side inlet valve to close it and open the VRU inlet valve. Further details regarding System 1200 are described below.

[0158] As shown in the figure, system 1200 may include ALDA 1202. ALDA 1202 may include or be connected to adapter flange 1204, which may be attached to a conduit, fluid housing, or any conduit, system, or opening leading to a fluid source from which ALDA 1202 can collect data. The direction of fluid flow within a portion of system 1200 is indicated at 1206. This flow may include, for example, gas, vapor, emissions, or exhaust gas.

[0159] The VRU inlet valve 1208, which can be remotely and / or automatically controlled, controls the flow of material into the VRU 1210. The VRU inlet valve 1208 can be opened or closed depending on the preferred composition of the gas and / or other materials, or the volume of the flow through the system 1200. The flow rate into the VRU 1210 can be regulated by partially or fully opening / closing the VRU inlet valve 1208.

[0160] Combustion inlet valve 1212 (also referred to herein as an "exhaust valve") controls the flow of material through line 1214 to a combustion chimney comprising one or more combustion devices 1216. Line 1214 may be used as an HP line or an LP line depending on the material in line 1214. Combustion inlet valve 1212 may be fully or partially opened or closed, depending on the preferred composition of the gas and / or other material, or the volume of flow through the system.

[0161] C.13ALDA measurement of gas volume to VRU

[0162] Now go to Figure 13 System 1300 is disclosed, which may be similar to or the same as System 1200 in terms of configuration, components, operation, and capabilities. Therefore, only selected aspects of System 1300 will be discussed in detail below.

[0163] In particular, Figure 13 A system 1300 including an example ALDA is disclosed, wherein the system 1300 may include a low-pressure or high-pressure exhaust system, the exhaust system including a VRU. In one embodiment, the ALDA may be incorporated into the system 1300. Figure 13 In the example, the VRU's inlet valve is closed, while the inlet valve of the combustion chimney or exhaust chimney is open. The ALDA measures the volume and velocity of gas or emissions flowing into the VRU. The system can be configured to allow the ALDA to communicate electronically via Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, or a routed connection to either of the two inlet valves. The ALDA can measure the volume of gas or emissions flowing through the system and communicate with the combustion-side inlet valve to close it and open the VRU inlet valve. Further details regarding System 1300 are described below.

[0164] As shown in the figure, system 1300 may include ALDA 1302. ALDA 1302 may include or be connected to adapter flange 1304, which may be attached to a pipe, fluid housing, or any conduit, system, or opening leading to a fluid source from which ALDA 1302 can collect data. The direction of fluid flow within a portion of system 1300 is indicated by 1306. This flow may include, for example, gas, vapor, emissions, or exhaust gas.

[0165] The VRU inlet valve 1308, which can be remotely and / or automatically controlled, controls the flow of material into the VRU 1310. The VRU inlet valve 1308 can be opened or closed depending on the preferred composition of the gas and / or other materials, or the volume of flow through the system 1300. The flow rate into the VRU 1310 can be regulated by partially or fully opening / closing the VRU inlet valve 1308.

[0166] Combustion inlet valve 1312 (also referred to herein as an "exhaust valve") controls the flow of material through line 1314 to a combustion chimney comprising one or more combustion units 1316, line 1314 being configured as an HP line or LP line depending on the material in line 1314. Combustion inlet valve 1314 can be fully or partially opened or closed, depending on the preferred composition of the gas and / or other material, or the volume of flow through the system.

[0167] D. Example Method

[0168] Now pay attention Figure 14 An example method according to one embodiment of the present invention is designated 1400. Example method 1400 can be performed by an embodiment of an ALDA. In one embodiment, method 1400 can be performed by an ALDA connected to and in fluid communication with a portion of the piping system. The ALDA can be configured and positioned to perform method 1400 for fluid flow in the piping system.

[0169] Example method 1400 can be performed when the ALDA's lidar unit emits an optical signal 1402 along / against the fluid flow and / or (in a fluid conduit or other component holding the fluid) a certain volume of fluid. As the optical signal impacts the fluid, a backscattered signal is generated, which is received by the ALDA 1404. Next, the Doppler frequency shift between the emitted signal and the backscattered signal can be determined 1406. This Doppler frequency shift can then be used to determine 1408 one or more fluid parameters, examples of which are disclosed herein and include fluid flow rate, fluid volume, fluid density, and fluid specific gravity.

[0170] E. Example computing devices and related media

[0171] The embodiments disclosed herein (including those in Appendix A) may include the use of a dedicated or general-purpose computer, which includes various computer hardware or software modules, as discussed in more detail below. The computer may include a processor and a computer storage medium carrying instructions that, when executed by and / or caused to be executed by the processor, perform any one or more of the methods disclosed herein, or any one or more portions of any of the disclosed methods.

[0172] As described above, embodiments within the scope of this invention also include a computer storage medium, which is a physical medium for carrying or having computer-executable instructions or data structures stored thereon. Such a computer storage medium can be any available physical medium accessible by a general-purpose or special-purpose computer.

[0173] By way of example and not limitation, such computer storage media may include hardware memory such as solid-state drives (SSDs), RAM, ROM, EEPROM, CD-ROM, flash memory, phase-change memory (“PCM”), or other optical disk storage, magnetic disk storage, or other magnetic storage devices, or any other hardware storage device that can be used to store program code in the form of computer-executable instructions or data structures, which can be accessed and executed by general-purpose or special-purpose computer systems to achieve the functions disclosed in this invention. Combinations of the above should also be included within the scope of computer storage media. Such media are also examples of non-transitory storage media, and non-transitory storage media also include cloud-based storage systems and architectures, but the scope of this invention is not limited to these examples of non-transitory storage media.

[0174] Computer-executable instructions include, for example, instructions and data that, when executed, cause a general-purpose computer, a special-purpose computer, or a special-purpose processing device to perform a specific function or group of functions. Therefore, some embodiments of the present invention can be downloaded to one or more systems or devices, for example, from a website, mesh topology, or other source. Similarly, the scope of the present invention includes any hardware system or device that includes an application instance that includes the disclosed executable instructions.

[0175] Although the subject matter has been described in language specific to structural features and / or methodological actions, it should be understood that the subject matter defined in the appended claims is not necessarily limited to the specific features or actions described above. Rather, the specific features or actions disclosed herein are disclosed as examples of implementing the claims.

[0176] As used herein, the terms "module" or "component" can refer to a software object or routine that executes on a computing system. The different components, modules, engines, and services described herein can be implemented as objects or processes that execute on a computing system, for example, as separate threads. While the systems and methods described herein can be implemented in software, they can also be implemented in hardware, or a combination of software and hardware. In this invention, a "computing entity" can be any computing system as previously defined herein, or any module or combination of modules running on a computing system.

[0177] In at least some cases, a hardware processor is provided that is operable to execute executable instructions for performing methods or processes (such as those disclosed herein). The hardware processor may or may not include other hardware elements, such as the computing devices and systems disclosed herein.

[0178] Regarding the computing environment, embodiments of the present invention can be executed in a client-server environment, whether in a network environment, a local environment, or any other suitable environment. Suitable operating environments for at least some embodiments of the present invention include cloud computing environments, wherein one or more of the client, server, and other machines can reside and operate in the cloud environment.

[0179] Figures 1-13 And / or any one or more entities disclosed or implied elsewhere herein may take the form of, include, be implemented on, or be hosted by a physical computing device. A portion or all of the physical computing device may include elements of an ALDA (Axial LiDAR Doppler Analyzer). Similarly, as contemplated herein, an ALDA may include a physical computing device.

[0180] Such a physical computing device may include memory (which may include one, some, or all of random access memory (RAM), non-volatile random access memory (NVRAM), read-only memory (ROM), and persistent memory), one or more hardware processors, non-transitory storage media, UI (user interface) devices / ports, and data storage. One or more memory components of the physical computing device may take the form of solid-state drive (SSD) memory. Similarly, one or more application programs may be provided, comprising instructions executable by one or more hardware processors to perform any of the operations disclosed herein or a portion thereof. Such executable instructions may take various forms, including, for example, executable instructions to perform and / or cause to perform any methods, processes, or a portion thereof disclosed herein.

[0181] F. Other aspects and exemplary implementation methods

[0182] The following are some other exemplary aspects and implementations of the invention. These are presented by way of example only and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention in any way.

[0183] Embodiment 1. A measuring device, comprising: a lidar unit including a transmitter operable to transmit a signal and a receiver operable to receive a backscattered signal, the backscattered signal including a portion of the signal; and a processor operable to: determine a Doppler shift between the signal and the backscattered signal; and use the Doppler shift to determine the volume of a fluid to which the signal is directed and from which the backscattered signal is received.

[0184] Implementation Method 2: The measuring device as described in Implementation Method 1, wherein the transmitter includes a laser and the receiver includes a photodiode.

[0185] Embodiment 3: The measuring device as described in any one of Embodiments 1-2, wherein the measuring system further includes a housing, the transmitter and the receiver are located in the housing, and the housing is configured to be connected to components of a piping system.

[0186] Embodiment 4: A measuring device as described in any one of Embodiments 1-3, wherein the measuring system further includes a window configured and arranged to contact the fluid when the measuring device is connected to a fluid system holding the fluid.

[0187] Embodiment 5: The measuring device as described in any one of Embodiments 1-4, wherein the processor is operable to determine the volume continuously and / or intermittently.

[0188] Embodiment 6: The measuring device as described in any one of Embodiments 1-5, wherein the measuring device is operable to communicate electronically with a device operable to manage fluid flow in a piping system.

[0189] Embodiment 7: The measuring device as described in any one of Embodiments 1-6, wherein the measuring device further includes a reflector configured and arranged to orient the signal emitted by the transmitter.

[0190] Embodiment 8: A measuring device as described in any one of Embodiments 1-7, wherein the measuring device includes a connection operable to receive power, control signals, and communication from one or more other devices.

[0191] Embodiment 9: An exhaust system comprising the measuring device described in any one of Embodiments 1-8.

[0192] Implementation 10: A method comprising: transmitting a signal into a fluid in a piping system using a lidar unit; receiving a backscattered signal generated due to the signal impacting the fluid; detecting a Doppler shift between the signal and the backscattered signal; and using the Doppler shift to determine the volume of the fluid.

[0193] Implementation 11: The method as described in Implementation 10, wherein the fluid comprises any one or more of the following: particles; one or more gases; or one or more liquids.

[0194] Embodiment 12: The method of any one of Embodiments 10-11, wherein the fluid comprises one or more hydrocarbons and / or hydrocarbon combustion products.

[0195] Implementation method 13: The method as described in any one of implementation methods 10-12, wherein the volume is continuously determined.

[0196] Implementation method 14: The method as described in any one of implementation methods 10-13, wherein the volume is determined intermittently.

[0197] Implementation method 15, the method of any one of implementation methods 10-14, wherein the fluid is flowing when the Doppler frequency shift is detected.

[0198] Embodiment 16: The method of any one of Embodiments 10-15, wherein the signal is emitted in an axial direction within a fluid system element containing the fluid.

[0199] Implementation 17, the method of any one of Implementations 10-16, wherein the detection is performed to generate a detector output signal by any of the following: direct detection by using an interferometer operable to optically analyze the backscattered signal, and a combination of backscatter analysis and the use of oscillating laser radiation.

[0200] Embodiment 18, the method of any one of Embodiments 10-17, wherein the signal is emitted from one side of the pipe to the other side of the pipe at an angle measured relative to the pipe axis in the range of about 10 degrees to about 20 degrees.

[0201] Implementation 19: The method as described in Implementation 18, wherein a reflector or prism is used to direct and / or redirect the transmitted signal.

[0202] Embodiment 20: A measuring device, which is operable to perform the method described in any one of Embodiments 10-19.

[0203] Implementation 21: A non-transitory storage medium carrying instructions that are executed by one or more hardware processors to perform or cause the execution of any part or all of the methods in Implementations 10-19.

[0204] This invention may be embodied in other specific forms without departing from its essence or essential characteristics. The described embodiments are to be regarded in all respects as illustrative only and not restrictive. Therefore, the scope of the invention is indicated by the appended claims rather than by the foregoing description. All variations within the equivalent meaning and scope of the claims should be included within its scope.

Claims

1. A measuring device, comprising: A Doppler lidar unit includes an optical transmitter operable to transmit a signal and an optical receiver operable to receive a backscattered signal, the backscattered signal including a portion of the signal. A signal steering device configured to orient and / or redirect the signal to achieve the orientation or redirection of the signal, wherein the signal steering device is capable of undergoing a change in position / orientation; Processor, the processor being operable to: Determine the Doppler frequency shift between the signal and the backscattered signal; and The Doppler frequency shift is used to determine the volumetric flow rate of the fluid to which the signal is directed and from which the backscattered signal is received. The measuring device is operable to measure the volume of the fluid; and An optical housing, in which the optical transmitter and the optical receiver are disposed, and the optical housing is configured to be fluid-tightly physically connected to a component of a fluid system, such that when such a connection is made, a portion of the optical housing is exposed to the line temperature and line pressure of the fluid within the fluid system, and the measuring device is operable to axially orient the signal relative to the direction of fluid flow in the component.

2. The measuring device of claim 1, wherein, The measuring device is operable to determine the values ​​of parameters of the fluid, including: the concentration of the material in the fluid; the specific gravity of the material in the fluid; and the density of the fluid.

3. The measuring device of claim 1, wherein, The measuring device is a component of the well site's exhaust system.

4. The measuring device of claim 1, wherein, The portion of the optical housing exposed to the pipeline temperature and pressure of the fluid includes a window, and the window is optically aligned with the optical transmitter and the optical receiver such that when the signal is emitted, the signal passes through the window to reach the fluid system, and the backscattered signal passes through the window from the fluid system.

5. The measuring device of claim 1, wherein, The optical housing includes a flange and a seal, and when the optical housing is connected to the component of the fluid system, the flange and the seal cooperate to form a fluid-tight connection.

6. The measuring device of claim 1, further comprising a plate housing that can be connected to a plate housing flange, and the plate housing flange being configured to be fluid-tightly connected to the optical housing.

7. The measuring device of claim 6, wherein, The optical transmitter and the optical receiver are electrically connected to a printed circuit board disposed in the plate housing.

8. The measuring device of claim 1, wherein, The optical transmitter is a single optical transmitter, and the volumetric flow rate of the fluid can be obtained using only the signal emitted by the single optical transmitter.

9. The measuring device of claim 6, wherein, When the housing is connected to the component of the fluid system, the measuring device is operable to transmit the signal in a direction offset from the flow direction of the fluid in the component by less than or equal to 10 degrees.

10. The measuring device of claim 6, wherein, When the housing is connected to the component of the fluid system, the measuring device is operable to emit the signal in a direction parallel to the flow direction of the fluid in the component.

11. The measuring device as claimed in claim 1, wherein, The signal deflection device is a reflector.

12. The measuring device as claimed in claim 1, wherein, The signal steering device is a prism.

13. A method for measuring fluid flow, the method comprising: A Doppler lidar unit is used to transmit a signal into the flow of fluid in a pipeline system, and the signal is transmitted in a direction offset from the flow direction of the fluid by less than or equal to 10 degrees. A signal steering device is used to orient and / or redirect the signal to achieve the orientation or redirection of the signal, wherein the signal steering device is capable of undergoing changes in position / orientation; Receive the backscattered signal generated due to the signal impacting the fluid; Detecting the Doppler frequency shift between the signal and the backscattered signal; and The Doppler frequency shift is used to determine the velocity and / or volumetric flow rate of the fluid. The detection is performed to generate a detector output signal by either of the following: direct detection using an interferometer operable to optically analyze the backscattered signal, or a combination of backscatter analysis and the use of oscillating laser radiation.

14. The method of claim 13, wherein, The signal is emitted through the window of the lidar unit that is in contact with the fluid.

15. The method of claim 13, wherein, When the signal is parallel to the flow of the fluid, the signal propagates in the same direction as the flow direction of the fluid.

16. The method of claim 13, wherein, When the signal is parallel to the flow of the fluid, the signal propagates in a direction opposite to the flow direction of the fluid.

17. The method of claim 13, wherein, The fluid includes any one or more of the following: liquid; gas; and aerosol.

18. The method of claim 13, wherein, The fluid includes one or more hydrocarbons and / or hydrocarbon combustion products.

19. The method of claim 13, further comprising determining the values ​​of one or more parameters of the fluid, the parameters including: The concentration of the material in the fluid; the specific gravity of the material in the fluid; And the density of the fluid.

20. The method of claim 13, wherein, The signal emitted by the Doppler lidar unit is a single laser beam, and the velocity and / or volumetric flow rate of the fluid is obtained using the single laser beam.

21. The method of claim 13, wherein, The signal deflection device is a reflector.

22. The method of claim 13, wherein, The signal steering device is a prism.

23. The method of claim 13, wherein, The fluid includes solids suspended therein.

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