Systems and methods for in situ detection of a catheter

Abstract

An apparatus for probing an interior of a pipe (190) includes an annular frame (102) configured to engage with a rotor (180) or a track element mount. The annular frame (102) presents a mounting surface (186). An annular buffer layer (106) is positioned radially inward of and concentric with the annular frame (102). A flexible annular sealing layer (104) is engaged with the annular buffer layer (106) and is positioned radially inward of and concentric with the annular buffer layer (106). The flexible annular sealing layer (104) is configured to form a seal with the tubing (190). The rotating layer (107) is positioned between the annular frame (102) and the annular buffer layer (106) such that the annular frame (102) is rotatable about the annular buffer layer (106). The process cartridge frame is mounted on the mounting surface (186) and includes three or more process cartridge openings. Each cartridge opening is configured to receive a process cartridge (120). The process cartridge (120) is selectable in rotation by rotation of the annular frame (102).

Description

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0001] Conduits designed to convey fluids from one location to another are used in various applications, such as, for example, oil and gas pipelines, water and sewage pipe systems, etc. Due to the importance of many applications in which such conduits are implemented, the monitoring and maintenance of the conduits and the flow characteristics of the fluids flowing therein may be considered important by many companies.

[0002] Once a conduit is in place, it may be difficult to obtain information about the condition of the internal portion of the pipe or even about the flow of the fluid flowing through the pipe. This may be especially true in cases where older conduit systems were implemented before certain technologies were available to obtain certain internal conditions, or where cost limitations of a project prohibit the implementation of such technologies.

[0003] Typically, inspection and maintenance of fluid conveyance conduits involves perforating the conduit to insert a probe, followed by inspection and characterization, and then closing the perforation. This process can be time-consuming and can result in production losses and defects during the closing process, which may lead to future outages of the conduit. SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0004] This Summary of the Invention is provided to introduce a series of concepts that will be further described in the Detailed Description below. This Summary of the Invention is not intended to identify key or essential features of the claimed subject matter nor is it intended to be used to limit the scope of the claimed subject matter.

[0005] The inventors have recognized that traditional maintenance and inspection techniques can be expensive and time-consuming and are thus not conducive to the overall operation of the conduits.

[0006] In one aspect, embodiments disclosed in this specification relate to an apparatus for detecting the interior of a pipe fitting. The apparatus includes: an annular frame configured to engage with a rotor or track element mount, the annular frame presenting a mounting surface on a surface of the annular frame; an annular buffer layer positioned radially interior to the annular frame and concentric with the annular frame; a flexible annular seal layer engaged with the annular buffer layer and positioned radially interior to the annular buffer layer and concentric with the annular buffer layer, wherein the flexible annular seal layer is configured to form a seal with the pipe fitting; a rotating layer positioned between the annular frame and the annular buffer layer such that the annular frame is capable of rotating about the annular buffer layer; and a process cartridge frame mounted on the mounting surface and including three or more process cartridge openings, wherein each of the three or more process cartridge openings is configured to receive a process cartridge, and wherein each process cartridge can be selectively rotated by rotation of the annular frame.

[0007] The flexible annular sealing member may include an expandable substrate that forms a base of the flexible annular sealing layer, wherein the base is joined to the annular buffer layer, and the expandable substrate may be configured to expand to cause deformation of the flexible annular sealing layer relative to the surface of the pipe fitting.

[0008] The apparatus may further include: a first process cartridge corresponding to a perforation cartridge installed in a first process cartridge opening among the three or more process cartridge openings; a second process cartridge corresponding to a detection cartridge installed in a second process cartridge opening among the three or more process cartridge openings; and a third process cartridge corresponding to a closure cartridge installed in a third process cartridge opening among the three or more process cartridge openings.

[0009] Each of the first process cartridge, the second process cartridge, and the third process cartridge may operate independently of another one of the first process cartridge, the second process cartridge, and the third process cartridge.

[0010] The perforation cartridge may include a laser perforation tool configured to perforate the pipe fitting to produce a detection hole, the detection cartridge may be configured to introduce a probe into the pipe fitting via the detection hole, the probe may be configured to provide information related to the interior of the pipe fitting, and the closure cartridge may be configured to close the detection hole via a welding or cladding process after removing the probe.

[0011] The apparatus may further include a gas supply source and at least one nozzle configured to purge a working area between the pipe fitting and one or more of the first process cartridge, the second process cartridge, and the third process cartridge.

[0012] The apparatus may further include a controller configured to control one or more of rotation of the annular frame, selection of a process cartridge, and operation of a selected process cartridge.

[0013] The flexible annular sealing layer may include a material selected from a high-temperature elastomer, a flexible thermoplastic, and a shape memory polymer, the material having a thermal expansion of less than 0.01 mm / K and a thermal conductivity between 0.03 W / mK and 0.1 W / mK.

[0014] The material may include an anisotropic composite material or plastic, the material being embedded with a fiber reinforcement material.

[0015] The rotating layer may include one or more of a bearing set and a fluid joint.

[0016] The buffer layer may include a rigid material configured to isolate rotation of the annular frame from the flexible seal layer.

[0017] The buffer layer may include one or more fluid lines configured to deliver fluid to an output nozzle associated with a process cartridge opening.

[0018] The perforated cartridge may include a fluid optical fiber assembly configured to transmit a processing beam having a first frequency to an outer surface of the pipe fitting, and the fluid optical fiber assembly may include a fluid reservoir, a fluid pump, a nozzle, and one or more pressure sensors. The perforated cartridge may further include an optical monitoring system including: a laser generator configured to generate a sensing beam having a second frequency different from the first frequency; and one or more optical sensors configured to receive a reflection of the sensing beam via the fluid optical fiber assembly.

[0019] The probing cartridge may include a retractable fiber optic probe.

[0020] The enclosure cartridge may include: a cap plunger configured to place a flexible cap at an inner portion of the pipe fitting; and a fusion laser configured to fuse material to an outer portion of the pipe fitting and a portion of the flexible cap.

[0021] According to a further embodiment, a method for inspecting a pipe fitting is provided. The method includes: positioning a multi-purpose rail tool on the pipe fitting to be inspected, the multi-purpose rail tool having at least three process cartridges mounted thereon, the three process cartridges being selectable in a rotational manner; providing fluid to a first annular portion of the multi-purpose tool to cause the first annular portion to expand to apply a force on a flexible annular portion of the multi-purpose tool, wherein the flexible annular portion forms a seal with the pipe fitting when the applied force is received; rotating a frame of the multi-purpose tool about an axial axis of the pipe fitting such that a first one of the at least three process cartridges is aligned with a processing location on the pipe fitting; processing the pipe fitting using the first cartridge; rotating the frame of the multi-purpose tool about the axial axis such that a second one of the at least three process cartridges is aligned with the processing location without disturbing the seal; and inspecting an interior of the pipe fitting via the second cartridge.

[0022] Processing using the first cartridge may include injecting a second fluid into a space between the first cartridge and the pipe fitting and penetrating the pipe fitting with a perforating laser beam that passes through the second fluid.

[0023] The method may further include: rotating the frame of the multi-purpose tool about the axial axis such that a third one of the at least three process cartridges is aligned with the processing location without disturbing the seal; injecting a purge gas into the space to purge the space; inserting a flexible cap into the interior at the processing location of the pipe fitting; and applying material to the processing location and the flexible cap using a welding or cladding process of the third cartridge.

[0024] The method may include monitoring the perforation using a sensing laser beam having a frequency different from the frequency of the perforating laser beam.

[0025] The method may include: inserting a probe through a hole formed by perforation in the pipe fitting; receiving information characterizing the interior of the pipe fitting; and retracting the probe from the hole.

[0026] Other aspects and advantages of the claimed subject matter will become apparent from the following description and the appended claims. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0027] Figure 1 An exemplary perspective view of a multi-functional device in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure mounted on a conduit is shown.

[0028] Figure 2 A portion of the multi-functional device on the conduit is shown in cross-section Figure 1 thereof.

[0029] Figure 3 An exemplary configuration of a multi-functional device in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown in a sectional perspective view.

[0030] Figure 4A A schematic diagram of an exemplary laser perforation cartridge that may be implemented using a multi-purpose tool in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0031] Figure 4B An exemplary probing cartridge operating in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown.

[0032] Figure 5 A schematic diagram of an exemplary closure cartridge that may be implemented using a multi-purpose tool in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0033] Figure 6 A flowchart highlighting an exemplary method for using a multi-functional device in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0034] Figure 7 A computer system in accordance with one or more embodiments is shown. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0035] In one aspect, embodiments disclosed in this specification relate to a multi-functional device for forming small (e.g., micron to millimeter) openings in a conduit configured to transport fluid using a liquid-assisted laser drilling method. The opening can be used as a passage for inserting a flexible probe, which is configured to in-situ characterize the fluid and / or evaluate the internal part of the conduit (e.g., via a fiber-optic coupled attenuated total reflection spectroscopy probe or a fiber-optic coupled camera). Embodiments also relate to a device for closing the opening after measurement using a cladding-based or keyhole laser welding method.

[0036] Embodiments of the present disclosure can reduce the operating cost for conduit inspection and maintenance, and provide a device for directly and rapidly characterizing the fluid and its flow, while being able to immediately measure fluid properties without interrupting production.

[0037] Figure 1 An exemplary perspective view of a multi-functional device 100 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure mounted on a conduit 190 is shown, while Figure 2 A cross-sectional view shows a part of the multi-functional device 100 also mounted on the conduit 190 Figure 1 of. Figure 3 An exemplary configuration of a multi-functional device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown in a sectional perspective view. Hereinafter, exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure will be described in conjunction with Figures 1 to 3 to.

[0038] According to an embodiment of the present invention, the multi-functional device 100 includes a frame 102, a buffer layer 106, a sealing layer 104, a rotating layer 107, and a process cartridge frame at least partially mounted on the mounting surface 186 of the frame 102.

[0039] For the purposes of the present disclosure, in the oil production industry, the conduit 190 will be interchangeably referred to as a pipe fitting, however, this is not intended to be limiting. The conduit 190 can correspond to any conduit configured to transport fluid through its interior 192, e.g., a production tubing of an oil well (i.e., a pipe fitting), an oil pipeline, a water pipe system, a sewage pipe system, etc. Since such conduits are known, a detailed description thereof will not be provided in this specification.

[0040] The sealing layer 104 is configured as the innermost annular structure of the multi-functional tool 100 and is configured to form a seal with the outer surface of the conduit 190 during processing. The sealing layer 104 can be configured to extend around the periphery of the conduit so as to seal the processing area, for example, around the area of the conduit 190, such that the process cartridges 120, 130, 140 mounted in the multi-functional tool can access the conduit 190.

[0041] To facilitate forming a seal with the catheter 190, the sealing layer 104 may include a deformable material such as a thermosetting elastomer, a shape memory polymer (SMP), or a thermoplastic elastomer (TPE). According to some embodiments, the sealing layer 104 may include, for example, crystalline trans-polyisoprene, which is an SMP (shape memory polymer) that provides the desired sealing quality while also returning to its original shape (e.g., using an electrical signal), enabling rapid release from the catheter 190.

[0042] The material used for the sealing layer 104 can be further selected based on the various processes that the multifunctional tool may be designed to perform. For example, for processes involving heating (e.g., laser-based processes), the material used for the sealing layer 104 may have low thermal expansion (<0.01 mm / K) and low thermal conductivity (0.03 W / mK to 0.1 W / mK).

[0043] According to some embodiments, the sealing layer 104 may be configured such that the deformation of the material is directed to propagate substantially (in some cases, completely) radially. For example, by employing an anisotropic material (e.g., a composite material or plastic having aligned chains in an elastomeric matrix), and according to some embodiments, embedding a woven reinforcement material (e.g., woven synthetic fibers, carbon fibers, etc.) and / or an anisotropic hydrogel material having a honeycomb microstructure and / or nanostructure or a combination thereof, the deformation can be controlled to be mainly limited to the radial direction. The materials mentioned in this specification for the sealing layer 104 are for illustration only, and any suitable material capable of forming a seal with the catheter 190 can be used for the sealing layer 104.

[0044] The sealing layer 104 may be configured to remain stationary (i.e., not move) relative to the catheter 190 during rotation of the annular frame 102. In other words, when establishing a seal between the catheter 190 and the sealing layer 104, the sealing layer 104 may remain fixed until the processing and removal of the multifunctional tool 100 are completed.

[0045] The sealing layer 104 may be configured to provide isolation from the environment external to the process and process-based materials that escape into the surrounding environment. For example, the sealing layer 104 may form an airtight seal with the catheter 190, thereby substantially or completely preventing the intrusion of external gases, dust, and other contaminants into the processing area 112 (also referred to as the working area 112) sealed by the sealing layer 104. Additionally, in cases where the process involves using materials inside the seal (e.g., during a fluid-coupled laser process), the sealing layer 104 may substantially (or even completely) prevent any material from escaping the processing area 112 based on the seal formed with the catheter 190 (e.g., an airtight seal).

[0046] According to some embodiments, the sealing layer 104 may be constructed on and / or joined to the expandable substrate 109, which forms the base of the sealing layer 104. The substrate 109 may comprise or be configured as a bladder that can be filled with a fluid (e.g., air) to fill the substrate 109, such that filling of the substrate 109 can apply a force (e.g., a radial force) to the sealing layer 104. For example, when the substrate 109 is inflated with air, a radial force may be applied to the sealing layer 104, thereby radially pushing the deformable material towards the catheter. Such a force can facilitate conforming the shape of the sealing layer 104 to the catheter 190.

[0047] When provided, the substrate 109 may be made of any suitable material to form a bladder for filling (inflating) and discharging (deflating) a fluid, thereby generating a force radially while also allowing joining (e.g., by an adhesive) to the sealing layer 104. For example, the substrate may be formed of polyethylene, rubber, and SMP. According to some embodiments, the substrate 109 may include a buffer layer 106.

[0048] The buffer layer 106 is positioned radially inside the annular frame 102 and concentric with the annular frame 102, and radially outside the sealing layer 104 and also concentric with the sealing layer 104. In other words, the buffer layer 106 is configured as an annular structure placed between the frame 102 and the sealing layer 104 such that forces generated during rotation of the frame 102 can be absorbed by the buffer layer 106 rather than being transmitted to the sealing layer 104.

[0049] The buffer layer 106 may include any suitable material or combination of materials for providing padding and / or isolation between the annular frame 102 and the sealing layer 104 while enabling the annular frame 102 to rotate without moving the sealing layer 104. For example, the buffer layer 106 may include a relatively rigid material (relative to the sealing layer 104), such as high-density polyethylene or other similar materials, which are designed to withstand loads (e.g., rotational loads) introduced during handling and / or rotation of the annular frame 102.

[0050] The buffer layer 106 may include and / or be in contact with a rotating layer 107. The rotating layer 107 is positioned between the annular frame 102 and the buffer layer 106 to facilitate rotation of the annular frame 102 around the buffer layer 106. For example, the rotating layer 107 may include one or more of a bearing set (e.g., ball bearings) and a fluid joint (e.g., formed of viscous oil), which are configured to facilitate rotation of the annular frame 102 while allowing the buffer layer 106 and the sealing layer 104 to remain in place (i.e., stationary). According to some embodiments, the annular bearing set may be implemented as the rotating layer 107 and may be positioned concentrically between the buffer layer 106 and the annular frame 102.

[0051] The buffer layer 106 may include one or more transfer pipelines 206 configured to convey process components from a source 210 to a processing location 112 on the conduit 190. For example, the transfer pipeline 206 may be configured to carry an inert gas (e.g., argon, neon, etc.) as a purge fluid and convey the inert gas to a nozzle 208 configured to purge the working area 112 between the conduit 190 and one or more of the process cartridges 120, 130, 140. Alternatively or additionally, one or more transfer pipelines 206 disposed within the buffer layer 106 may be configured to convey a fluid for expanding the substrate 109, as described above, for providing a force to the sealing layer 104, etc.

[0052] The buffer layer 106 may further include a window (not shown) (e.g., a movable / scalable window) configured to further isolate the processing area 10 and may be useful during laser drilling and welding operations. For example, the window may be positioned perpendicular to the propagation direction of the process laser beam and may include sapphire, diamond, infrared flexible series (IRFS) material, transparent aluminum (e.g., ALON), or chalcogenide glass. A scalable window may be helpful in cases where damage is identified and / or operations may require direct exposure. Such a window may also prevent debris from entering the process cartridge (e.g., the laser head).

[0053] According to some embodiments, the sealing layer 104 may be in direct contact with the buffer layer 106, and in some embodiments, the sealing layer 104 may directly adhere to the buffer layer 106. Alternatively, for example, the sealing layer may adhere to the substrate 109, and the substrate 109 adheres to the buffer layer 106.

[0054] The annular frame 102 is configured to engage with a rotor and / or an orbital element mount. The annular frame 102 is positioned at the outermost portion of the multifunctional tool and is concentric with the sealing layer 104 and the buffer layer 106. As described above, the annular frame 102 is configured to rotate around the buffer layer 106 and the sealing layer 104 without causing the buffer layer 106 or the sealing layer 104 to rotate.

[0055] The annular frame 102 includes a mounting surface 186 on the surface of the annular frame 102, where an external sealing cover 182 may be mounted, thereby creating a receiver 184 for mounting the process cartridges 120, 130, 140. For example, the external sealing cover 182 may include a plurality of voids / slots angularly spaced around the perimeter of the external sealing cover 182, enabling the process cartridges 120, 130, 140 to be inserted into each slot.

[0056] The annular frame 102 can be made of a rigid material (e.g., metal, composite material, plastic) and can be configured such that a force applied to the annular frame 102 (e.g., by the rotor 180) causes it to rotate about the axial axis of the conduit 190. For example, the annular frame 102 can include mechanical features such as gear teeth, pulley teeth, etc., which are configured to receive a mechanical force and convert the mechanical force into rotation of the annular frame 102. Thus, the annular frame 102 can be configured to be engaged by a rotor (not shown) that provides a force to cause rotation. Such a rotor can be electromagnetic, hydraulic, or mechanical and can apply the rotation to the annular frame 102 by, for example, mechanical engagement (e.g., via gear teeth), electromagnetic, or other suitable means. Alternatively or additionally, the annular frame can be fixed to the rotor 180, for example, by fasteners, quick-connect mounts, welding, etc., and the rotational force is transmitted to the annular frame 102 through the engagement between the rotor 180 and the annular frame 102.

[0057] The annular frame 102 is configured to move independently of the buffer layer 106 and is capable of positioning the preloaded process cartridges 120, 130, 140 at the processing location 112 by rotation. According to some embodiments, the annular frame 102 can employ an off-the-shelf rotary mount. Alternatively, for example, the annular frame 102 can be specifically customized for a given size and configuration based on the conduit to be processed and the process to be performed.

[0058] The annular frame 102 can include additional features that enable the installation, adjustment, and removal of the multi-functional tool 100 on and from the conduit 190. For example, the annular frame 102 can include any suitable fastener and / or joint arrangement such that the annular frame and the multi-functional tool 100 can be opened for installation at a location along the conduit 190.

[0059] The annular frame 102 includes at least three slots for mounting the process cartridges 120, 130, and 140, and the selection of a specific cartridge is performed by rotating the annular frame 102 into the processing area 112. For example, the slots / receivers 184 formed within the sealing cover 182 can be implemented to mount the process cartridges 120, 130, 140 on the annular frame 102.

[0060] The process cartridges for a particular implementation can include a perforation cartridge 120, a probing cartridge 130, and a closure cartridge 140. Each slot can include a locking mechanism 185 (e.g., one or more spring-loaded and releasable pins, hooks, or other suitable mechanisms) that is configured to secure the process cartridges 120, 130, 140 within the receivers 184 on the annular frame 102.

[0061] Each process cartridge 120, 130, 140 can operate independently of the other process cartridges installed and is configured to include respective electronic, optomechanical, optical, computing, and telemetry / sensing systems to perform the functions intended to be performed by each cartridge. For example, as Figure 2 shown, the piercing cartridge 120 can include a cable 122 (e.g., a power cable, a control cable, etc.), an optical fiber cable 124 (e.g., a laser transmission optical fiber), and a processing fluid cable 126 (e.g., for supplying fluid to the fluid optical fiber in the processing area 112), as well as circuitry (e.g., a microprocessor, circuitry, etc.) configured to perform a laser piercing process.

[0062] In addition, one or more of the process cartridges 120, 130, 140 can include purge nozzles to be able to, for example, purge the working area 112 with an inert gas, maintain pressure balance, etc. According to some embodiments, each process cartridge 120, 130, 140 can include means for purging the working area 112, for example, through a purge nozzle or other gas introduction means.

[0063] Figure 4A is a schematic diagram of an exemplary laser piercing cartridge 120 that can be implemented using the multi-functional tool 100 according to embodiments of the present disclosure. According to some embodiments, the piercing cartridge 120 includes a laser piercing system configured to use a processing beam 406 (e.g., a high-power laser beam) having a frequency and wavelength (e.g., 330 nm to 360 nm, 400 nm to 450 nm, 980 nm to 1100 nm, 2500 nm to 3000 nm, and 10000 nm) to form a probing hole 456 (e.g., having a diameter in the range between 10 μm and 1 cm) through a conduit 190. According to some embodiments, at least some of the laser processing can employ a pulsed high-energy laser.

[0064] According to embodiments of the present disclosure, the laser source 402 is configured to provide the processing beam 406 to a collimator 404 such that the processing beam 406 then impinges on a prism 408. The prism 408 is configured to modify the direction vector of the processing beam 406, for example, to redirect the processing beam 406 at a desired angle (e.g., ninety degrees) towards a lens group 410. The lens group 410 is configured to focus the processing beam 406 into a fiber fluid assembly 412 and onto an area along the outer surface of the output nozzle of the piercing cartridge 120.

[0065] The fiber optic fluid component 412 can be configured to use a liquid for free - space coupling of the coupler. The liquid used for the fluid fiber optic component 412 can be selected to be transparent or translucent at the frequency of the processing beam 406 and at the frequency of the sensing beam 426 of the optical monitoring system 420, which will be discussed below. For example, a translucent fluid at the frequency of the processing beam 406 can be used to ensure that the processing beam 406 is absorbed before reaching a given point within the catheter 190 during the perforation operation, while allowing the sensing beam 426 to pass freely through and be reflected by the fluid. According to such an example, for a near - infrared processing beam, the liquid can be selected from halogenated hydrocarbons, fluorine - based liquids, or other non - hydrogenated liquids as needed.

[0066] The fluid fiber optic component 412 can include a fluid reservoir, a fluid pump, an injection nozzle (e.g., a laminar flow injection nozzle), and one or more pressure sensors (e.g., solid - state pressure sensors) located, for example, inside a fluid chamber and the nozzle.

[0067] According to some embodiments, the perforation process cartridge 120 can include an optical monitoring system 420. The optical monitoring system 420 can include a separate laser generator 422 for providing a sensing beam 426 at a desired frequency and wavelength (e.g., 1000 nm to 1100 nm) that is sufficiently different from the processing laser beam 406 and that is configured to provide information related to the perforation process. For example, the frequency of the sensing beam 426 can be selected so as not to overlap with the frequency of the processing beam 406.

[0068] The optical monitoring system 420 can include one or more optical sensors 430 within an optical sensor assembly 424, which is mounted, for example, at the rear of the prism 408 or other suitable location. The optical sensor assembly 424 is configured to receive information, for example, via backscattered light from the processing beam 406 and the sensing beam 426, and use this information to control the perforation process. The information obtained through backscattered light can include, for example, frequency and time - of - arrival (ToA), and can be extended using relevant techniques of signal analysis (e.g., autocorrelation).

[0069] The optical monitoring system 420 can include optical analysis tools and can implement optical devices as needed to direct and filter the processing beam 406 and the sensing beam 426. For example, a sensing laser beam 426 operating at a frequency that does not overlap with the frequency range of the processing beam 406 can be used to probe the perforation process performed by the perforation cartridge 120. The sensing beam 426 can be propagated through an optical collimator 428, a set of interference filters (e.g., selected to screen out back - reflections from the processing beam), a dichroic beam splitter 434, and a right - angle prism 408 to join the processing beam 406 that reaches the catheter 190 along the same path.

[0070] According to some embodiments, the propagation angle of the sensing beam 426 can be configured such that the diffracted beam is collinear with the processing beam 406 when propagating into the fluid component 412.

[0071] Two photomultiplier sensors 430 (e.g., CCD and / or CMOS) can be equipped with interference filters positioned at opposite arms of the dichroic beam splitter 434 to characterize the input and backscattered components of the sensing beam 426. A secondary dichroic beam splitter (not shown) can be provided in the return path (backscattering path) to provide information about the processing beam 426.

[0072] According to some embodiments, additional neutral density and interference filters (not shown) can be added, for example, to reduce the intensity of the backscattered processing beam, etc.

[0073] Figure 4B An exemplary probe cartridge 130 operating in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure is shown. The probe cartridge 130 can be configured to introduce a probe 432 into the conduit 190 via a probe hole 456, and the probe 432 is configured to provide information related to the interior 192 of the conduit 190 (e.g., flow rate, flow characterization, wall condition, etc.). For example, the probe 432 can include a flexible optical fiber and can be extensible / retractable (e.g., via a servo-operated spool) such that the probe 432 can extend into the conduit 190 by a desired distance (e.g., between 0.1 cm and 20 cm). Then, such a probe 432 can be wound back onto a spool (not shown) to retract the probe 432 from the probe hole 456, and the probe hole 456 is configured to provide information related to the condition of the interior 192 of the conduit.

[0074] The sensing head (not shown) of the probe 432 can be designed in any suitable manner for providing the desired information from within the interior 192. For example, a retractable fiber-optic coupled attenuated total internal reflection Fourier transform infrared spectrometer (ATR-FTIR) can be implemented at the distal end of the probe 432.

[0075] Figure 5 is a schematic diagram of an exemplary closure cartridge 140 that can be implemented using the multifunctional tool 100 according to embodiments of the present disclosure. The closure cartridge can be configured to close the probe hole 456 via a welding and / or cladding process after removal of the probe 452. For example, the closure cartridge 140 can be configured to implement a wire and / or powder laser cladding process to deposit a closure material within and around the probe hole 456 in the conduit 190 to close the probe hole 456.

[0076] According to some embodiments, the closure cartridge 140 can include a laser source (not shown), a material source 510, and a cap plunger 512. The laser source is configured to generate a laser beam 506 that is delivered by an optical fiber 508. The laser source can be configured to provide a laser beam 506 with suitable power and intensity to fuse or otherwise melt the material 511 provided to the conduit 190 by the material source 510 (e.g., alloy metal wire). For example, the laser source can transmit a high-power laser beam 506 through the optical fiber 508 such that the laser beam 506 impinges on a wire (e.g., a heated alloy wire) positioned near the detection hole 456 to melt the wire and close the hole 456.

[0077] According to some embodiments, prior to closing the detection hole 456, the collapsible closure cap 520 can be inserted into the detection hole 456 by, for example, the cap plunger 512. The collapsible closure cap 520 can include a soft alloy such that it can be inserted into the detection hole 456 using the plunger 512 prior to the welding / cladding process. For example, the closure cap 520 can be deformed to enable it to pass through the hole 456, be pressed through into the interior 192 of the conduit 190 by the cap plunger 512, and abut against the inner wall of the conduit 190 (e.g., by the cap plunger 512) to act as a plug. By providing the closure cap 520, cladding / welding material can be substantially prevented from entering the interior of the conduit.

[0078] Additional modifications can be made to the closure cartridge 140. For example, the cartridge can be equipped with a scanner (not shown) to enable tracking of the process. The scanner can effect movement of the cladding / welding process as needed to obtain a high-quality closed weld. Additionally, the closure cartridge can be provided with one or more purge nozzles (not shown) configured to purge any contaminants remaining from a previous process in the processing area 112.

[0079] Figure 6 is a flow chart highlighting an exemplary method for using the multi-functional tool 100 in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure. To perform a multi-functional process on the conduit 190, the multi-functional tool 100 as described above is first positioned on the conduit 190 (step 602). For example, the multi-functional tool 100 can be disassembled and / or opened by fasteners and hinges provided on the annular frame 102 and mounted on the conduit 190.

[0080] Then, fluid can be provided to the substrate 109 to cause the substrate 109 to expand, thereby applying a force on the sealing layer 104 to abut it against the conduit 190 (step 604). For example, compressed air can be provided to the bladder of the substrate 109 to cause it to expand, thereby causing the sealing layer 104 to seal against the conduit 190.

[0081] Once the sealing is achieved, the rotating annular frame 102 can be rotated to select the process cartridges 120, 130, 140, thereby starting the processing of the conduit 190 (step 606). For example, the multi-functional tool 100 can have three process cartridges, namely a piercing cartridge 120, a probing cartridge 130, and a closing cartridge 140. To perform processing after sealing, the annular frame 102 can be rotated such that the piercing cartridge 120 is positioned at the processing area 112 of the conduit 190. Based on the above configuration, the rotation of the annular frame 102 can be performed without disturbing the sealing.

[0082] The piercing cartridge 120 can perform piercing of the conduit 190 (step 608). For example, the piercing cartridge 120 can use the injection of an inert gas to purge the processing area 112, and then inject a fluid into the processing area 112, where the fluid is configured as a fluid optical fiber assembly 412. Then, the processing beam 406 can be activated to cause piercing of the conduit 190 to form a probing hole 456.

[0083] During the piercing process, the optical monitoring system 420 can monitor the process and cause the piercing cartridge to adjust the process based on the monitoring. For example, in the case where the optical monitoring system 420 determines that the processing beam 406 does not sufficiently penetrate the wall of the conduit 190, the optical monitoring system 420 can cause the processing beam 406 and the fluid optical fiber assembly 412 to be adjusted.

[0084] Once the piercing cartridge 120 pierces the probing hole 456, the annular frame 102 can be rotated to place the probing cartridge 130 at the processing area 112 (step 610). The probing cartridge 130 can purge the processing area 112 with gas from a purge nozzle associated with the probing cartridge (step 612), for example, to remove any residual fluid in the fluid optical fiber assembly 412 used during the piercing process.

[0085] Then, the probe 432 can be inserted through the probing hole 456, and the required information can be obtained from inside the conduit 190 (step 614). For example, measurements related to flow rate, flow characteristics, the internal condition of the conduit 190, etc. can be obtained through the probe 432.

[0086] Once the required information is obtained via the probe 432, the probe can be retracted from the conduit 190 and the annular frame is rotated such that the closing cartridge is located at the processing area 112 (step 616).

[0087] Then, the enclosure 130 can perform operations to close the detection hole 456, as described above (step 618). For example, the enclosure 140 can use an inert gas to purge the processing area through a nozzle provided on the enclosure 140, and position the processing area 112 by injecting gas therein. The cover 520 can be inserted through the detection hole 456 and held at the inner portion of the hole 456. Then, the closing laser can melt the material 511 to fill the hole 456 and fix the cover 520 within the conduit 190.

[0088] According to some embodiments, a controller 700 can be provided, for example, to accommodate the processing of a particular cartridge, to automatically / robotically control the functions of the multi-functional tool 100, etc. In addition, each process cartridge 120, 130, 140 mounted on the multi-functional tool 100 can include a controller configured to perform designated operations.

[0089] Figure 7 A controller 700 according to one or more embodiments is shown, which can be implemented, for example, to provide robotic control of the multi-functional tool 100, control processing, etc. Specifically, Figure 7 A block diagram of a computer system 702 for providing computing functionality is shown, which is associated with algorithms, methods, functions, processes, flows, and programs as described in the present disclosure.

[0090] The computer 702 shown is intended to encompass any computing device, such as a server, desktop computer, laptop / notebook computer, wireless data port, smart phone, personal data assistant (PDA), tablet computing device, one or more processors within these devices, or any other suitable processing device, including physical or virtual instances (or both) of a computing device.

[0091] In addition, the computer 702 can include a type of computer containing: input devices, such as a keypad, keyboard, touch screen, or other devices that can accept user information; and output devices that convey information associated with the operation of the computer 702, which includes digital data, visual or audio information (or a combination of information); or a GUI.

[0092] The computer 702 can act in the role of a client, network component, server, database, or other persistency, or any other component (or combination of roles) in a computer system for performing the subject matter described in the present disclosure. The computer 702 shown is communicatively connected to the network 730. In some embodiments, one or more components of the computer 702 can be configured to operate within an environment including a cloud-based environment, a local environment, a global environment, or other environments (or a combination of environments).

[0093] At a high level, computer 702 is an electronic computing device capable of operating to receive, transmit, process, store, or manage data and information associated with the described subject matter. According to some embodiments, computer 702 may also include an application server, an email server, a web server, a cache server, a streaming data server, a business intelligence (BI) server, or other servers (or a combination of servers), or be communicatively coupled to the various servers described above.

[0094] Computer 702 may receive requests from client applications (e.g., executing on another computer 702) via network 730 and respond to the requests by processing the received requests in a suitable software application. Additionally, requests may also be sent to computer 702 from internal users (e.g., from a command console or via other suitable access methods), external or third parties, other automated applications, and any other suitable entity, individual, system, or computer.

[0095] Each component of computer 702 may communicate using system bus 703. In some embodiments, any or all components of computer 702 (hardware or software (or a combination of hardware and software)) may interact with each other or with interface 704 (or a combination of both) on system bus 703 using application programming interface (API) 712 or service layer 713 (or a combination of API 712 and service layer 713).

[0096] API 712 may include descriptions of routines, data structures, and object classes. API 712 may be independent of or dependent on a computer language and refers to a complete interface, a single function, or even a set of APIs. Service layer 713 provides software services to computer 702 or other components communicatively coupled to computer 702 (whether or not shown).

[0097] The functionality of computer 702 is accessible to all service consumers using the service layer. Software services (e.g., software services provided by service layer 713) provide reusable, defined business functions through defined interfaces. For example, the interface may be software written in JAVA, C++, or other suitable languages that provide data in extensible markup language (XML) format or other suitable formats.

[0098] Although shown as an integrated component of computer 702, alternative embodiments may show API 712 or service layer 713 as separate components relative to other components of computer 702 or other components communicatively coupled to computer 702 (whether or not shown). Additionally, any or all portions of API 712 or service layer 713 may be implemented as a sub-module or sub-module of another software module, an enterprise application, or a hardware module without departing from the scope of the present disclosure.

[0099] The computer 702 includes an interface 704. Although shown as a single interface 704 in Figure 7 FIG., two or more interfaces 704 may be used depending on specific needs, desires, or particular implementations of the computer 702. The interface 704 is used by the computer 702 to communicate with other systems in a distributed environment connected to the network 730.

[0100] Generally speaking, the interface 704 includes logic encoded in software or hardware (or a combination of software and hardware) and operable to communicate with the network 730. More specifically, the interface 704 may include software that supports one or more communication protocols associated with communication, such that the network 730 or the hardware of the interface is operable to transmit physical signals inside and outside the illustrated computer 702.

[0101] The computer 702 includes at least one computer processor 705. Although shown as a single computer processor 705 in Figure 7 FIG., two or more processors may be used depending on specific needs, desires, or particular implementations of the computer 702. Generally speaking, the computer processor 705 executes instructions and manipulates data to perform the operations of the computer 702 and any algorithms, methods, functions, procedures, processes, and programs as described in this disclosure.

[0102] The computer 702 also includes a non-transitory computer 702-readable medium or memory 706 that stores data for the computer 702 or other components (or a combination of both) that may be connected to the network 730. For example, the memory 706 may be a database that stores data consistent with this disclosure. Although shown as a single memory 706 in Figure 7 FIG., two or more memories may be used depending on specific needs, desires, or particular implementations of the computer 702 and the functions described. Although the memory 706 is shown as an integrated component of the computer 702, in an alternative implementation, the memory 706 may be external to the computer 702.

[0103] The application 707 is an algorithmic software engine that provides functionality (particularly with respect to the functionality described in this disclosure) according to specific needs, desires, or particular implementations of the computer 702. For example, the application 707 may serve as one or more components, modules, applications, etc. Additionally, although shown as a single application 707, the application 707 may be implemented as multiple applications 707 on the computer 702. Further, although shown as integral with the computer 702, in an alternative implementation, the application 707 may be located external to the computer 702.

[0104] Any number of computers 702 can exist either associated with or external to a computer system that includes a computer 702, where each computer 702 communicates via a network 730. Additionally, the terms "client," "user," and other suitable sets of terms can be used interchangeably as appropriate without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. Further, the present disclosure contemplates that many users can use one computer 702, or one user can use multiple computers 702.

[0105] Although only a few exemplary embodiments have been described in detail above, those skilled in the art will readily appreciate that many modifications can be made in the exemplary embodiments without materially departing from the invention. Accordingly, all such modifications are intended to be included within the scope of the present disclosure as defined by the appended claims.

Claims

1. An apparatus for detecting the interior (192) of a pipe fitting (190), comprising: An annular frame (102) configured to engage with a rotor (180) or an orbital element mount, the annular frame (102) presenting a mounting surface (186) on the surface of the annular frame (102); An annular buffer layer (106) positioned radially inside the annular frame (102) and concentric with the annular frame (102); A flexible annular seal layer (104) joined to the annular buffer layer (106) and positioned radially inside the annular buffer layer (106) and concentric with the annular buffer layer (106), wherein the flexible annular seal layer (104) is configured to form a seal with the pipe fitting (190); A rotating layer (107) positioned between the annular frame (102) and the annular buffer layer (106) such that the annular frame (102) can rotate about the annular buffer layer (106); and A process cartridge frame mounted on the mounting surface (186) and including three or more process cartridge openings, wherein each of the three or more process cartridge openings is configured to receive a process cartridge (120, 130, 140), wherein the process cartridges (120, 130, 140) can be selected in a rotational manner by rotation of the annular frame (102).

2. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein, The flexible annular seal layer (104) includes an expandable substrate (109) that forms the base of the flexible annular seal layer (104), wherein the base is joined to the annular buffer layer (106), and wherein the expandable substrate (109) is configured to expand to cause deformation of the flexible annular seal layer (104) relative to the surface of the pipe fitting (190).

3. The apparatus according to claim 1 or 2, further comprising: A first process cartridge corresponding to a perforated cartridge (120) installed in a first process cartridge opening among the three or more process cartridge openings; A second process cartridge corresponding to a detection cartridge (130) installed in a second process cartridge opening among the three or more process cartridge openings; and A third process cartridge corresponding to a closed cartridge (140) installed in a third process cartridge opening among the three or more process cartridge openings.

4. The apparatus according to claim 3, wherein, Each of the first process cartridge, the second process cartridge, and the third process cartridge (120, 130, 140) can operate independently of another one of the first process cartridge, the second process cartridge, and the third process cartridge (120, 130, 140).

5. The apparatus according to claim 3 or 4, wherein, The perforation box (120) includes a laser perforation tool configured to perforate the pipe fitting (190) to create a detection hole (456), wherein the detection box (120) is configured to introduce a probe (432) into the pipe fitting (190) via the detection hole (456), wherein the probe (432) is configured to provide information related to the interior (192) of the pipe fitting (190), and wherein the closure box (140) is configured to close the detection hole (456) via a welding or cladding process after removal of the probe (432).

6. The apparatus according to any one of claims 3 to 5, further comprising a gas supply source and at least one nozzle (208) configured to purge a working area (112) between the pipe fitting (190) and one or more of the first process box, second process box, and third process box (120, 130, 140).

7. The apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 6, further comprising a controller (700) configured to control one or more of the following: rotation of the annular frame (102); selection of the process box (120, 130, 140); and operation of the selected process box.

8. The apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein, the flexible annular seal layer (104) comprises a material selected from high temperature elastomers, flexible thermoplastics, and shape memory polymers, the material having a thermal expansion of less than 0.01 mm / K and a thermal conductivity between 0.03 W / mK and 0.1 W / mK.

9. The apparatus according to claim 8, wherein, the material comprises an anisotropic composite material or plastic, the material being embedded with fiber reinforcement materials.

10. The apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein, the rotating layer (107) comprises one or more of a bearing set and a fluid connector.

11. The apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein, the annular buffer layer (106) comprises a rigid material configured to isolate the rotation of the annular frame (102) from the flexible annular seal layer (104).

12. The apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 11, wherein, the annular buffer layer (106) comprises one or more fluid pipelines configured to deliver fluid to an output nozzle associated with a process box opening.

13. The apparatus according to any one of claims 3 to 5, wherein, the perforation box (120) comprises: a fluid optical fiber assembly (412) configured to transmit a processing beam (406) having a first frequency to an outer surface of the pipe fitting (190), wherein the fluid optical fiber assembly (412) includes a fluid reservoir, a fluid pump, a nozzle, and one or more pressure sensors; and an optical monitoring system (420) including: A laser generator (422) configured to generate a sensing beam (426) having a second frequency different from the first frequency; and One or more optical sensors (430) configured to receive a reflection of the sensing beam (426) via the fluid optical fiber assembly (412).

14. The apparatus according to any one of claims 3 to 5 or 13, wherein, The detection cartridge (130) includes a retractable fiber optic probe.

15. The apparatus according to any one of claims 3 to 5, 13 or 14, wherein, The enclosure cartridge (140) includes: A cover plunger (512) configured to place a flexible cover at an interior (192) of the pipe fitting (190); and A fusion laser configured to fuse material to an exterior of the pipe fitting (190) and a portion of the flexible cover.

16. A method for inspecting a pipe fitting, comprising: Positioning a multi-purpose rail tool (100) on a pipe fitting (190) to be inspected, the multi-purpose rail tool (100) having at least three process cartridges (120, 130, 140) mounted thereon, the at least three process cartridges (120, 130, 140) being selectable in a rotational manner; Supplying fluid to a first annular portion of the multi-purpose rail tool (100) to cause the first annular portion to expand to apply a force on a flexible annular portion of the multi-purpose rail tool (100), wherein the flexible annular portion forms a seal with the pipe fitting (190) upon receiving the applied force; Rotating a frame (102) of the multi-purpose rail tool (100) about an axial axis of the pipe fitting (190) such that a first cartridge of the at least three process cartridges (120, 130, 140) is aligned with a processing location (112) on the pipe fitting (190); Processing the pipe fitting (190) using the first cartridge; Rotating the frame (102) of the multi-purpose rail tool (100) about the axial axis such that a second cartridge of the at least three process cartridges (120, 130, 140) is aligned with the processing location (112) without disturbing the seal; and Inspecting an interior (192) of the pipe fitting (190) via the second cartridge.

17. The method according to claim 16, wherein, The processing using the first cartridge includes: Injecting a second fluid into a space between the first cartridge and the pipe fitting (190); and Perforating the pipe fitting (190) with a perforating laser beam that passes through the second fluid to create a perforation.

18. The method according to claim 17, further comprising: Rotating the frame (102) of the multi-purpose rail tool (100) about the axial axis such that a third cartridge of the at least three process cartridges (120, 130, 140) is aligned with the processing location (112) without disturbing the seal; Inject purge gas into the space to purge the space; Insert a flexible cover into the interior (192) at the processing location (112) of the pipe fitting (190); and Apply material to the processing location (112) and the flexible cover using a welding or cladding process of a third cartridge.

19. The method according to claim 17 or 18, further comprising monitoring the perforation using a sensing laser beam (426) having a frequency different from that of the perforating laser beam.

20. The method according to any one of claims 17 to 19, wherein the inspection comprises: Insert a probe (432) through the hole formed by the perforation in the pipe fitting (190); Receive information characterizing the interior (192) of the pipe fitting (190); and Retract the probe (432) from the hole.

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