A method of detecting a pipe blockage

Abstract

The application discloses a pipeline blockage detection method, comprising: emitting an acoustic wave signal into a pipeline through an acoustic wave transmitter; receiving the acoustic wave signal propagated through the pipeline through an acoustic wave receiver, wherein the acoustic wave transmitter is arranged at a first position of the pipeline, and the acoustic wave receiver is arranged at a second position of the pipeline; judging a blockage state of the pipeline according to a characteristic parameter of the acoustic wave signal received by the acoustic wave receiver, the characteristic parameter comprising at least one of signal intensity, signal frequency or spectral characteristics; and outputting a judgment result. The pipeline blockage detection method provided by the application improves the recognition sensitivity of pipeline deformation, can discover potential risks in time before the pipeline is completely blocked, and further improves the detection sensitivity and reliability by combining the fluid auxiliary detection scheme with the fluid dynamics characteristics.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of pipeline inspection technology, and in particular to a pipeline blockage detection method based on the characteristics of sound wave propagation. Background Technology

[0002] With the development of industrial automation and intelligence, pipeline systems are increasingly widely used in petrochemical, municipal water supply, medical equipment, and household appliances. As a crucial carrier for fluid transportation, the unobstructed flow of pipelines directly affects the normal operation of the system. Pipeline blockage can lead to obstructed fluid transport, reduced equipment efficiency, and even safety accidents. Therefore, real-time monitoring of pipeline blockage is of great significance.

[0003] Currently, pipe blockage detection primarily relies on flow sensors or velocity sensors. These sensors determine pipe blockage by monitoring changes in the flow rate or velocity of the fluid within the pipe. When the flow rate or velocity falls below a set threshold, the system determines that a blockage may have occurred. However, this detection method has significant limitations. First, flow sensors have a slow response time; there is a time delay between the onset of blockage and a noticeable decrease in flow, making early warning impossible. Second, the accuracy of flow sensors is affected by various factors such as fluid properties, temperature, and pressure, resulting in a high false alarm rate. More importantly, when a pipe is subjected to external force or bends, although the cross-sectional area decreases, the initial flow rate change may not be significant. Flow sensors may struggle to identify this potential blockage risk in time, leading to the pipe eventually becoming completely blocked due to the continuous accumulation of internal deposits.

[0004] In recent years, acoustic detection technology has been increasingly applied to pipeline condition monitoring. Existing acoustic detection solutions typically employ a single-end emitter-reflector structure, where a sound wave transmitter and receiver are placed at one end of the pipeline, and the internal condition of the pipeline is determined by analyzing the reflected sound wave signals. While this approach can detect pipeline blockages, it has the following drawbacks: First, the detection accuracy is limited by the length and shape of the pipeline. When the pipeline is long or has multiple bends, the reflected wave signal attenuates significantly, making it difficult to accurately determine the location and extent of the blockage. Second, for corrugated pipelines, the periodic undulations in the inner wall create complex reflected wave signals, easily leading to misjudgments. Third, the single signal strength analysis method has weak anti-interference capabilities; environmental noise, fluid disturbances, and other factors can all affect the detection results.

[0005] Therefore, a new technical solution is needed that can quickly and accurately detect the blockage status of pipelines, especially with a high ability to identify pipeline deformation such as compression and bending, and is applicable to complex application scenarios such as corrugated pipelines. Summary of the Invention

[0006] The purpose of this invention is to provide a method for detecting pipe blockage, which addresses the following technical problems existing in the prior art: (1) Traditional flow sensors rely on changes in flow rate or velocity to determine pipe blockage. They have a slow response speed, low detection accuracy, and cannot provide early warning. (2) The flow sensor is not good at recognizing when the pipeline is squeezed or bent by external force, and it is difficult to detect the potential blockage risk caused by pipeline deformation in time, which leads to the pipeline being completely blocked due to the continuous accumulation of internal deposits. (3) Existing acoustic detection schemes use a single-end emission and reflection structure. The detection accuracy is limited by the length and shape of the pipe. It is easy to make misjudgments for corrugated pipes. Moreover, the single signal strength analysis method has weak anti-interference ability.

[0007] To achieve the above-mentioned technical objectives, the present invention adopts the following technical solution: This application provides a method for detecting pipe blockage, including: A sound wave signal is emitted into the pipe using a sound wave transmitter; The sound wave signal propagating through the pipe is received by a sound wave receiver, wherein the sound wave transmitter is disposed at a first position in the pipe and the sound wave receiver is disposed at a second position in the pipe; The blockage status of the pipe is determined based on the characteristic parameters of the acoustic signal received by the acoustic receiver. The characteristic parameters include at least one of signal strength, signal frequency, or spectral characteristics. Output the judgment result.

[0008] Preferably, the first position is the pipe inlet and the second position is the pipe outlet.

[0009] Preferably, the sound wave transmitter transmits a sound wave signal into the pipe, comprising: transmitting a sound wave signal from the pipe input end into the pipe through one of the sound wave transmitters; The sound wave receiver receives the sound wave signal propagating through the pipe, including: one or more of the sound wave receivers are placed at the output end of the pipe to receive the sound wave signal propagating through the pipe.

[0010] Preferably, determining the blockage status of the pipe based on the characteristic parameters of the acoustic signal received by the acoustic receiver includes: Obtain the intensity value of the sound wave signal; The intensity value is compared with a preset threshold. When the difference between the intensity value and the preset threshold is within the preset tolerance range, a qualified signal is output; otherwise, a unqualified signal is output.

[0011] Preferably, determining the blockage status of the pipe based on the characteristic parameters of the acoustic signal received by the acoustic receiver includes: Obtain the frequency value of the sound wave signal; Calculate the difference between the frequency value and the frequency of the transmitted sound wave signal; Based on the difference value, a preset tolerance range is matched, and the corresponding blockage level signal is output.

[0012] Preferably, determining the blockage status of the pipe based on the characteristic parameters of the acoustic signal received by the acoustic receiver includes: Extract the spectral and intensity features of the acoustic signal; The spectral and intensity features are input into the machine learning model; Obtain the congestion status judgment result output by the machine learning model.

[0013] Preferably, the method further includes: Fluid is supplied into the pipe before the sound wave signal is emitted; Record the transmission and reception times of the sound wave signal; The blockage status of the pipeline is determined based on the time difference between the transmission time and the reception time.

[0014] Preferably, the fluid delivery into the pipeline includes: controlling the fluid to enter the pipeline through an inlet valve and controlling the fluid to exit the pipeline through an outlet valve, wherein the inlet valve and the outlet valve are respectively located at both ends of the pipeline.

[0015] Preferably, the method further includes: The sound wave transmitter is controlled to emit a sound wave signal at a constant intensity, and the emission frequency is gradually increased within a preset frequency range; Record the intensity values ​​of the acoustic signals received by the acoustic receiver at each frequency, and generate a frequency-intensity relationship curve; Obtain the reference frequency-intensity relationship curve of the pipeline under normal conditions; Compare the frequency-intensity relationship curve generated by the pipeline in its current state with the reference frequency-intensity relationship curve, and extract at least one curve feature value; The blockage status of the pipeline is determined based on the comparison result between the curve feature value and the preset threshold range.

[0016] Preferably, the curve feature values ​​include at least one of the following: peak frequency, peak intensity, maximum value of the first derivative of the curve, frequency corresponding to the maximum value of the first derivative, and second derivative feature of the curve; the step of determining the blockage status of the pipeline based on the comparison result of the curve feature values ​​and a preset threshold range includes: outputting a blockage signal when the difference between the peak frequency and the peak frequency of the reference curve exceeds a preset frequency threshold range; or, outputting a blockage signal when the difference between the maximum value of the first derivative of the curve and the maximum value of the first derivative of the reference curve exceeds a preset derivative threshold range.

[0017] The pipe blockage detection method provided in this application uses sound waves as the detection medium. Sound waves propagate quickly, enabling rapid detection. Sound waves are sensitive to pipe deformation (squeezing, bending); when the pipe deforms, the sound wave propagation resistance increases, and the received signal characteristics change significantly, thereby improving the sensitivity to pipe deformation detection and enabling the timely detection of potential risks before the pipe becomes completely blocked. By setting sound wave transmitters and receivers at both ends or multiple locations on the pipe, the limitations of single-end reflective structures are avoided, improving detection accuracy. Multi-dimensional feature analysis (signal strength, frequency changes, spectral characteristics) or machine learning models improve detection accuracy and anti-interference capabilities. It is particularly suitable for detecting corrugated pipes, overcoming the insufficient recognition capabilities of traditional flow sensors. The fluid-assisted detection scheme, combined with fluid dynamics characteristics, further enhances detection sensitivity and reliability. Attached Figure Description

[0018] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the pipeline blockage detection system provided in the embodiments of this application.

[0019] Figure 2 This is a schematic flowchart of the pipeline blockage detection method provided in the embodiments of this application.

[0020] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures: 1-Inlet valve, 2-Sealed chamber, 3-Sound wave transmitter, 4-Pipeline, 5-Sound wave receiver, 6-Control unit, 7-Pressure reducing valve, 8-Exhaust valve, 9-Pressure sensor, 10-Terminal equipment. Detailed Implementation

[0021] The technical solutions of the embodiments of the present invention will be clearly described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Obviously, the described embodiments are only some embodiments of the present invention, and not all embodiments. Based on the embodiments of the present invention, all other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art without creative effort are within the scope of protection of the present invention.

[0022] The technical solutions provided in the embodiments of this application will be described below.

[0023] Please see Figures 1-2 .

[0024] Example 1 This embodiment provides a method for detecting pipe blockage, which solves the problem that traditional flow sensors are insufficient in recognizing pipes that are squeezed or bent.

[0025] This method first transmits acoustic signals into pipe 4 via acoustic transmitter 3. Acoustic transmitter 3 is positioned at the first location in pipe 4 and employs an ultrasonic transducer to convert electrical signals into ultrasonic signals. The first location in pipe 4 is the pipe inlet. Because ultrasonic waves attenuate more significantly than lower-frequency waves during propagation due to resistance, they are more sensitive to deformation and blockages within pipe 4, making them particularly suitable for detecting corrugated pipes. Acoustic transmitter 3 is fixed to the outer wall of pipe 4 via a mounting bracket, with its transmitting end connected to the inner cavity of pipe 4, ensuring that the ultrasonic signal can smoothly enter the interior of pipe 4.

[0026] The sound wave signal propagating through the pipe 4 is then received by the sound wave receiver 5. The sound wave receiver 5 is located at the second position of the pipe 4 and is an ultrasonic receiver capable of converting the received ultrasonic signal into an electrical signal. The second position of the pipe 4 is the pipe output end. The sound wave receiver 5 is also fixed to the outer wall of the pipe 4 by a mounting bracket, and the receiving end is connected to the inner cavity of the pipe 4. The sound wave transmitter 3 and the sound wave receiver 5 are respectively located at both ends of the pipe 4, forming a sound wave propagation path. The sound wave signal originates from the sound wave transmitter 3, propagates through the inside of the pipe 4, and reaches the sound wave receiver 5.

[0027] Next, the blockage status of pipe 4 is determined based on the characteristic parameters of the acoustic signal received by acoustic receiver 5. The ultrasonic signal propagates inside pipe 4. When pipe 4 is in a normal state, the ultrasonic signal propagates along the inner wall of pipe 4 with low propagation resistance, resulting in a high signal strength received by acoustic receiver 5. When pipe 4 is subjected to external force or bends, the cross-sectional area of ​​pipe 4 decreases, and the contact surface between the inner wall of pipe 4 and the ultrasonic wave changes, leading to increased resistance to ultrasonic wave propagation and a weakened signal strength received by acoustic receiver 5. When deposits accumulate inside pipe 4, causing blockage, the ultrasonic signal is absorbed or reflected by the deposits during propagation, further reducing the received signal strength.

[0028] In this embodiment, the specific steps for determining the blockage status of pipe 4 include: acquiring the intensity value of the acoustic signal; comparing the intensity value with a preset threshold; outputting a qualified signal when the difference between the intensity value and the preset threshold is within a preset tolerance range; otherwise, outputting an unqualified signal. The control unit 6 presets a signal intensity threshold. When the difference between the received signal intensity and the preset threshold is within a preset tolerance range, pipe 4 is determined to be in a normal state, and a qualified signal is output; when the difference between the received signal intensity and the preset threshold exceeds the preset tolerance range, pipe 4 may be blocked or deformed, and an unqualified signal is output.

[0029] In this embodiment, the preset tolerance range includes multiple consecutive tolerance ranges, each corresponding to a level of congestion. For example, three tolerance ranges can be set: the first tolerance range corresponds to the normal state, the second tolerance range corresponds to mild congestion, and the third tolerance range corresponds to severe congestion. Based on the difference between the received signal strength and the preset threshold, the corresponding tolerance range is matched, and the corresponding congestion level signal is output, thereby achieving a refined judgment of the congestion level.

[0030] Finally, the judgment result is output. This method may also include the step of transmitting the judgment result to a host computer or terminal device 10 via a communication module. Through the communication module, users can remotely monitor the blockage status of pipe 4 in real time, promptly identify problems, and take appropriate measures.

[0031] The pipe blockage detection method provided in this embodiment uses ultrasound as the detection medium. Ultrasonic waves propagate quickly, enabling rapid detection. Ultrasonic waves are sensitive to the deformation of pipe 4. When pipe 4 is squeezed or bent, the propagation resistance of ultrasound increases, and the received signal strength is significantly weakened, thereby improving the sensitivity of identifying pipe 4 deformation. By setting sound wave transmitters 3 and sound wave receivers 5 at both ends of pipe 4, the limitations of single-end reflection structures are avoided, improving detection accuracy. By setting multiple continuous tolerance ranges, the degree of blockage can be graded, facilitating targeted treatment measures.

[0032] Example 2 This embodiment provides a method for detecting pipe blockage, which differs from Embodiment 1 in that: when judging the blockage status of pipe 4 based on the characteristic parameters of the acoustic signal received by acoustic receiver 5, frequency analysis is used.

[0033] When pipe 4 becomes blocked or deformed, the propagation characteristics of ultrasonic waves within pipe 4 change, causing the frequency of the signal received by the sound wave receiver 5 to shift relative to the frequency of the signal emitted by the sound wave transmitter 3. In this embodiment, the specific steps for determining the blockage state of pipe 4 include: acquiring the frequency value of the sound wave signal; calculating the difference between the frequency value and the frequency of the emitted sound wave signal; matching the difference value to a preset tolerance range, and outputting the corresponding blockage degree signal.

[0034] In this embodiment, multiple continuous frequency difference tolerance ranges are set. For example, when the frequency difference value is less than a first threshold, the pipe 4 is determined to be in a normal state; when the frequency difference value is between the first and second thresholds, the pipe 4 is determined to be in a slightly blocked state; when the frequency difference value is greater than the second threshold, the pipe 4 is determined to be in a severely blocked state. The frequency offset is positively correlated with the degree of blockage of the pipe 4, and the frequency offset gradually increases as the degree of blockage of the pipe 4 increases.

[0035] The pipe blockage detection method provided in this embodiment uses frequency analysis to determine the blockage status of pipe 4. Compared with simple signal strength analysis, the frequency analysis method has stronger anti-interference ability and higher detection accuracy. When environmental noise or fluid disturbance causes signal strength fluctuations, the frequency characteristics remain relatively stable, which can more reliably reflect the true state of pipe 4.

[0036] Example 3 This embodiment provides a method for detecting pipe blockage, which differs from Embodiment 1 in that: when judging the blockage status of pipe 4 based on the characteristic parameters of the acoustic signal received by acoustic receiver 5, a machine learning model is used for comprehensive analysis.

[0037] In this embodiment, the specific steps for determining the blockage status of pipe 4 include: extracting the spectral and intensity features of the acoustic signal; inputting the spectral and intensity features into a machine learning model; and obtaining the blockage status determination result output by the machine learning model.

[0038] Spectral features include the energy distribution of the ultrasonic signal across different frequency bands, while intensity features include the overall energy intensity of the ultrasonic signal. The extracted spectral and intensity features are used as input data and fed into the machine learning model.

[0039] The machine learning model is trained by collecting ultrasonic data from normal pipes and pipes with various degrees of blockage. During the model training phase, a large amount of ultrasonic signal data from normal pipes (4) under different operating conditions, as well as a large amount of ultrasonic signal data from abnormal pipes (4) categorized as having different degrees of blockage, such as mild, moderate, and severe blockage, are collected. Feature extraction is performed on the collected data to obtain spectral and intensity features, and these features are associated with the corresponding pipe (4) state labels to form a training dataset. The machine learning model uses this training dataset to learn and establish a mapping relationship between spectral and intensity features and the blockage state of pipes (4).

[0040] The machine learning model employs a neural network structure, comprising an input layer, hidden layers, and an output layer. The input layer receives spectral and intensity feature data, the hidden layer performs nonlinear transformations and feature extraction on the input data, and the output layer outputs the judgment result of the blockage status of pipe 4. In the actual detection process, the spectral and intensity features of the real-time acquired ultrasonic signal are input into the machine learning model. Based on the mapping relationship obtained through training, the machine learning model outputs the judgment result of the blockage status of pipe 4, including normal, mild blockage, moderate blockage, or severe blockage.

[0041] The training accuracy of the machine learning model gradually improves with the increase of training rounds. After sufficient training, the model can accurately identify the characteristics of ultrasonic signals under different blockage conditions.

[0042] The pipe blockage detection method provided in this embodiment employs a machine learning model to comprehensively analyze multi-dimensional features, enabling more accurate identification of the blockage state of pipe 4 and adapting to detection needs under different pipe materials and environmental conditions. Compared to the single-feature analysis methods in Embodiments 1 and 2, the machine learning model can capture the complex feature variation patterns of ultrasonic signals, significantly improving detection accuracy.

[0043] Example 4 This embodiment provides a method for detecting pipe blockage, which differs from Embodiment 1 in that it further includes a fluid-assisted detection step, which detects pipe blockage by combining fluid dynamics characteristics.

[0044] Before emitting the acoustic signal, this method first delivers fluid into pipe 4. Fluid delivery is achieved through a fluid delivery system, which includes a high-pressure fluid source, a pressure reducing valve 7, an inlet valve 1, and an outlet valve 8. The high-pressure fluid source provides high-pressure fluid, which is then stabilized by the pressure reducing valve 7 to a suitable working pressure for detection. The pressure reducing valve 7 stabilizes the pressure of the delivered fluid, ensuring a stable flow rate within pipe 4. A pressure sensor 9 is installed on pipe 4 to monitor the fluid pressure and transmit the pressure signal to the control unit 6. The inlet valve 1 is located at the first end of pipe 4 to control fluid entry into pipe 4; the outlet valve 8 is located at the second end of pipe 4 to control fluid discharge from pipe 4.

[0045] An acoustic wave transmitter 3 is disposed at the first end of the pipe 4, and an acoustic wave receiver 5 is disposed at the second end of the pipe 4. The method includes recording the transmission and reception times of the ultrasonic signal and determining the blockage status of the pipe 4 based on the time difference.

[0046] The specific workflow is as follows: Open inlet valve 1 and outlet valve 8 at the second end, close other outlet valves 8, and fluid flows within pipe 4. Control unit 6 controls the acoustic transmitter 3 to emit ultrasonic signals into pipe 4 and records time point T1 at the instant the emission is completed. The ultrasonic signal propagates within pipe 4. Due to the fluid flow within pipe 4, the ultrasonic signal is affected by the fluid flow. When the fluid flow direction is the same as the ultrasonic propagation direction, the ultrasonic wave is accelerated by the fluid; when the fluid flow direction is opposite to the ultrasonic propagation direction, the ultrasonic wave is decelerated by the fluid. After receiving the ultrasonic signal, acoustic receiver 5 records time point T2 at the instant the reception is completed.

[0047] The blockage status of pipe 4 is determined based on the change in the propagation time of the sound wave signal in the fluid. The time difference T2 minus T1 is calculated. When pipe 4 is in a normal state, the fluid velocity is high, the ultrasonic waves are accelerated by the fluid, the propagation time is short, and the value of time difference T2 minus T1 is large. When pipe 4 is blocked, the fluid velocity decreases, the acceleration effect of the ultrasonic waves in the fluid weakens, the propagation time increases, and the value of time difference T2 minus T1 decreases. The time difference is compared with a preset time difference threshold. When the time difference is within the preset tolerance range, pipe 4 is determined to be in a normal state, and a qualified signal is output; when the time difference exceeds the preset tolerance range, pipe 4 is determined to be blocked, and a unqualified signal is output. The judgment result can be transmitted to a host computer or terminal device 10 via a communication module.

[0048] When pipeline 4 has multiple branches, each branch can be checked sequentially. Open the drain valves 8 of different branches in sequence, close the other drain valves 8, and repeat the above inspection process to achieve the inspection of each branch of pipeline 4.

[0049] The pipe blockage detection method provided in this embodiment, combined with fluid dynamics characteristics, utilizes the acceleration or deceleration effect of fluid on ultrasonic waves to further improve detection sensitivity. When pipe 4 is blocked, the change in fluid velocity directly affects the propagation time of ultrasonic waves. By measuring the change in propagation time, the blockage status of pipe 4 can be determined more accurately, improving the reliability of detection.

[0050] Example 5 This embodiment provides a method for detecting pipe blockage, which differs from Embodiment 1 in that it uses multiple sound wave transmitters 3 or multiple sound wave receivers 5 for detection.

[0051] In one embodiment of this invention, multiple sound wave transmitters 3 transmit sound wave signals into the pipe 4, with the transmitters 3 positioned at different locations within the pipe 4. For example, one transmitter 3 is positioned at the beginning, middle, and end of the pipe 4. A sound wave receiver 5 is positioned at the end of the pipe 4.

[0052] This method sequentially controls each acoustic wave transmitter 3 to emit ultrasonic signals, and the acoustic wave receiver 5 receives the ultrasonic signals from different acoustic wave transmitters 3. The received signal strength for each acoustic wave transmitter 3 is recorded. By comparing the received signal strength at different locations, the blockage status of different sections of the pipe 4 can be determined. For example, when the received signal strength from the middle section acoustic wave transmitter 3 is significantly lower than the received signal strength from the beginning and end acoustic wave transmitters 3, it is determined that a blockage has occurred in the middle section of the pipe 4, thus locating the blockage.

[0053] In another embodiment of this invention, multiple acoustic receivers 5 are used to receive acoustic signals propagating through the pipe 4, and these receivers 5 are positioned at different locations within the pipe 4. An acoustic transmitter 3 is located at the beginning of the pipe 4, and a control unit 6 controls the transmitter 3 to emit ultrasonic signals. The multiple receivers 5 simultaneously receive these ultrasonic signals. By comparing the signal characteristics received by the receivers 5 at different locations, the blockage status of different sections of the pipe 4 is determined, enabling parallel detection of multiple sections of the pipe 4.

[0054] The pipe blockage detection method provided in this embodiment, employing a configuration of multiple acoustic transmitters 3 or multiple acoustic receivers 5, can not only determine whether pipe 4 is blocked, but also pinpoint the specific location of the blockage, thus improving the practicality of the detection. For long-distance pipes or pipe systems with multiple branches, the configuration of this embodiment can achieve comprehensive coverage and promptly detect blockages in various sections.

[0055] Example 6 This embodiment provides a method for detecting pipe blockage, which differs from Embodiment 1 in that: this embodiment uses a frequency sweep detection method, and determines the blockage status of the pipe by analyzing the frequency response characteristics of the pipe under different frequency sound wave excitations.

[0056] When a pipe becomes blocked or locally narrowed, its acoustic resonance characteristics change, manifesting as a shift in the peak frequency of the frequency-intensity response curve and a change in the curve's shape. This embodiment utilizes this physical principle to obtain the pipe's frequency response curve through frequency sweeping and compares it with a reference curve under normal conditions, achieving highly sensitive blockage detection.

[0057] The specific steps are as follows: The first step involves controlling the acoustic wave transmitter 3 to emit acoustic signals at a constant intensity, gradually increasing the emission frequency within a preset frequency range. For example, the acoustic wave transmitter 3 uses a frequency-tunable ultrasonic transducer, emitting ultrasonic signals at various frequency points sequentially within a frequency range of 20kHz to 100kHz, with a step interval of 1kHz. Throughout the frequency sweep process, the acoustic wave transmitter 3 maintains a constant emission power, ensuring that the initial intensity of the acoustic waves at different frequencies is consistent.

[0058] The second step involves recording the intensity values ​​of the acoustic signals received by the acoustic receiver 5 at various frequencies, generating a frequency-intensity relationship curve. The acoustic receiver 5 receives the corresponding ultrasonic signal at each frequency point, and the control unit 6 records the received signal intensity at each frequency point, forming a response curve with frequency on the horizontal axis and intensity on the vertical axis. This curve reflects the transmission characteristics of the pipeline to acoustic waves of different frequencies under the current conditions.

[0059] The third step is to obtain the reference frequency-intensity relationship curve of the pipeline under normal conditions. When the pipeline is used for the first time or when it is confirmed to be in a fully unobstructed state, the above frequency sweep detection process is performed to obtain a standard response curve, which serves as the reference curve for subsequent detection. The reference curve can be stored in the memory of the control unit 6, or uploaded to the host computer or terminal device 10 for storage via the communication module.

[0060] The fourth step is to compare the frequency-intensity relationship curve generated by the pipeline in its current state with the reference frequency-intensity relationship curve and extract at least one curve feature value. Curve feature values ​​may include, but are not limited to: the peak frequency, peak intensity, maximum value of the first derivative of the curve, the frequency corresponding to the maximum value of the first derivative, and the second derivative features of the curve.

[0061] When a pipe becomes blocked or narrowed in a localized area, its equivalent acoustic length and boundary conditions change, causing a shift in the resonant frequency. For example, if a pipe undergoes compression deformation at a certain point, the local cross-sectional area decreases, and the pipe's resonant frequency will shift towards higher frequencies. This manifests as an increase in the peak frequency of the frequency-intensity relationship curve relative to the reference curve's peak frequency. Simultaneously, the slope of the curve near the peak also changes, and the amplitude and location of the maximum value of the first derivative sensitively reflect changes in the curve's steepness.

[0062] The fifth step is to determine the blockage status of the pipeline based on the comparison results between the curve characteristic value and the preset threshold range.

[0063] In one implementation of this embodiment, the difference between the peak frequency of the current curve and the peak frequency of the reference curve is compared. When the difference exceeds a preset frequency threshold range, for example, if the difference is greater than 5%, it is determined that the pipeline is blocked or deformed, and an unqualified signal or a blockage signal is output; otherwise, a qualified signal is output.

[0064] In another implementation of this embodiment, the maximum value of the first derivative of the current curve is calculated and compared with the maximum value of the first derivative of the reference curve. The maximum value of the first derivative reflects the maximum slope of the rising segment of the curve. When the pipe is blocked, the shape of the frequency response curve changes, and the amplitude of the maximum slope may decrease significantly. When the difference between the maximum values ​​of the first derivative and the current value exceeds a preset derivative threshold range, it is determined that the pipe is blocked.

[0065] In a preferred implementation of this embodiment, multiple curve feature values ​​are used simultaneously for comprehensive judgment. For example, the difference in peak frequency and the difference in the maximum value of the first derivative are compared simultaneously. When both exceed their respective threshold ranges, it is determined to be a severe blockage; when only one exceeds the threshold range, it is determined to be a mild blockage or a warning signal is issued. This comprehensive judgment method can improve the accuracy of detection and its anti-interference capability.

[0066] In another implementation of this embodiment, a curve matching algorithm is used. For example, the correlation coefficient, root mean square error, or area difference between the current curve and the reference curve is calculated, and the blockage status of the pipeline is determined based on the matching degree. When the similarity between the two curves in the frequency-intensity space is lower than a preset threshold, it is determined that there is an anomaly in the pipeline.

[0067] The pipe blockage detection method provided in this embodiment uses a frequency sweep approach to obtain the complete frequency response characteristics of the pipe. Compared with single-frequency point detection, it can more sensitively capture changes in the internal structure of the pipe, especially showing extremely high recognition sensitivity for resonance frequency shifts caused by local narrowing. This method is particularly suitable for corrugated pipes, long-distance pipes, and complex pipe systems with multiple bends. It can effectively overcome the misjudgment problems caused by environmental noise, fluid disturbance, and other factors in traditional single-frequency detection methods, significantly improving the accuracy and reliability of pipe blockage detection.

[0068] In the description of this specification, references to terms such as "an embodiment," "some embodiments," "example," "specific example," or "optional embodiment," etc., indicate that a specific feature, structure, material, or characteristic described in connection with that embodiment or example is included in at least one embodiment or example of the invention. In this specification, the illustrative expressions of the above terms do not necessarily refer to the same embodiment or example. Furthermore, the specific features, structures, materials, or characteristics described may be combined in any suitable manner in one or more embodiments or examples.

[0069] The embodiments described above do not constitute a limitation on the scope of protection of this technical solution. Any modifications, equivalent substitutions, and improvements made within the spirit and principles of the above embodiments should be included within the scope of protection of this technical solution.

Claims

1. A method for detecting pipe blockage, characterized in that, include: A sound wave signal is emitted into the pipe using a sound wave transmitter; The sound wave signal propagating through the pipe is received by a sound wave receiver, wherein the sound wave transmitter is disposed at a first position in the pipe and the sound wave receiver is disposed at a second position in the pipe; The blockage status of the pipe is determined based on the characteristic parameters of the acoustic signal received by the acoustic receiver. The characteristic parameters include at least one of signal strength, signal frequency, or spectral characteristics. Output the judgment result.

2. The pipe blockage detection method according to claim 1, characterized in that, The first position is the pipe input end, and the second position is the pipe output end.

3. The pipe blockage detection method according to claim 2, characterized in that, The sound wave transmitter transmits a sound wave signal into the pipe, including: transmitting a sound wave signal from the pipe input end into the pipe through one of the sound wave transmitters; The sound wave receiver receives the sound wave signal propagating through the pipe, including: one or more of the sound wave receivers are placed at the output end of the pipe to receive the sound wave signal propagating through the pipe.

4. The pipe blockage detection method according to claim 1, characterized in that, The step of determining the blockage status of the pipeline based on the characteristic parameters of the acoustic signal received by the acoustic receiver includes: Obtain the intensity value of the sound wave signal; The intensity value is compared with a preset threshold. When the difference between the intensity value and the preset threshold is within the preset tolerance range, a qualified signal is output; otherwise, a unqualified signal is output.

5. The pipe blockage detection method according to claim 1, characterized in that, The step of determining the blockage status of the pipeline based on the characteristic parameters of the acoustic signal received by the acoustic receiver includes: Obtain the frequency value of the sound wave signal; Calculate the difference between the frequency value and the frequency of the transmitted sound wave signal; Based on the difference value, a preset tolerance range is matched, and the corresponding blockage level signal is output.

6. The pipe blockage detection method according to claim 1, characterized in that, The step of determining the blockage status of the pipeline based on the characteristic parameters of the acoustic signal received by the acoustic receiver includes: Extract the spectral and intensity features of the acoustic signal; The spectral and intensity features are input into the machine learning model; Obtain the congestion status judgment result output by the machine learning model.

7. The pipe blockage detection method according to claim 1, characterized in that, The method further includes: Fluid is supplied into the pipe before the sound wave signal is emitted; Record the transmission and reception times of the sound wave signal; The blockage status of the pipeline is determined based on the time difference between the transmission time and the reception time.

8. The pipe blockage detection method according to claim 7, characterized in that, The method of delivering fluid into the pipeline includes: controlling the fluid to enter the pipeline through an inlet valve and controlling the fluid to exit the pipeline through an outlet valve, wherein the inlet valve and the outlet valve are respectively located at both ends of the pipeline.

9. The pipe blockage detection method according to claim 1, characterized in that, The method further includes: The sound wave transmitter is controlled to emit a sound wave signal at a constant intensity, and the emission frequency is gradually increased within a preset frequency range; Record the intensity values ​​of the acoustic signals received by the acoustic receiver at each frequency, and generate a frequency-intensity relationship curve; Obtain the reference frequency-intensity relationship curve of the pipeline under normal conditions; Compare the frequency-intensity relationship curve generated by the pipeline in its current state with the reference frequency-intensity relationship curve, and extract at least one curve feature value; The blockage status of the pipeline is determined based on the comparison result between the curve feature value and the preset threshold range.

10. The pipe blockage detection method according to claim 9, characterized in that, The curve feature values ​​include at least one of the following: peak frequency, peak intensity, maximum value of the first derivative of the curve, frequency corresponding to the maximum value of the first derivative, and second derivative feature of the curve. Determining the blockage status of the pipeline based on the comparison result of the curve feature values ​​with a preset threshold range includes: outputting a blockage signal when the difference between the peak frequency and the peak frequency of the reference curve exceeds a preset frequency threshold range; or, outputting a blockage signal when the difference between the maximum value of the first derivative of the curve and the maximum value of the first derivative of the reference curve exceeds a preset derivative threshold range.

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