Axial lidar doppler analyzer

Abstract

To accurately record a volume or a velocity of hydrocarbons that move from a well to a tank assembly and from the tank assembly to a sales section or a separation section, and / or vapor gas that is transferred to a flare section or a vapor recovery apparatus.SOLUTION: A measurement device includes: a Doppler lidar apparatus including an optical transmitter that transmits a signal and an optical receiver that receives a backscattered signal having a portion of the signal; a window through which the signal and the backscattered signal can pass and which contacts a fluid when the measurement device is connected to a fluid system that holds the fluid; and a processor which determines a Doppler shift between the signal and the backscattered signal and uses the Doppler shift to determine a volumetric flow rate of the fluid to which the signal is guided and from which the backscattered signal is received. Regardless of whether the signal is transmitted in the same direction as a flow direction of the fluid or in an opposite direction, the Doppler lidar apparatus and the processor jointly determine the volumetric flow rate and a volume of the fluid.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001]

[0001] Embodiments of the present invention generally relate to downhole systems, components, and methods. One or more particular embodiments are directed to an optical system configured and operable to measure the volume and velocity of gas produced and / or encountered in connection with downhole operations. [Background technology]

[0002] The upstream oil and gas portion of the system may include various equipment located at a well site, which may have one or more wells, a tank system, piping to sales and discharge or flare, and power; the well site may also include vapor recovery equipment.

[0003] During operation, hydrocarbons such as oil and gas flow out of the well along with water. Once produced from the well, the oil, gas, and water may then be transferred through a piping system or piping to a large tank suite, or group of tanks, which may be located at the well site. From the tank suite, the hydrocarbons may begin to separate from the water, including the steam gas that is separated from the existing hydrocarbons or produced. The oil may then be sent to a sales line or to a more controlled separation facility located midstream, where the oil may undergo another separation process. The water may be recycled or disposed of. The steam gas may exit the tank suite and travel through a system of piping that may connect to a steam recovery unit or a discharge or flare. If a steam recovery unit is incorporated at the well site, the vent gas may be recovered and sent to a sales unit or used for a separate required process. If a vapor recovery system is not installed at the well site, the vapor may then be transported through a system of low or high pressure piping to a flare or discharge where it may be flared or discharged to the atmosphere. Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] The volumes and velocities of hydrocarbons moving through the above-described systems or processes are not collected or recorded. Currently, there are no data acquisition systems that accurately record the volumes or velocities of hydrocarbons moving from the well to the tank set, from the tank set to the sales or separation section, and / or the vapor gases transferred to the flare section or vapor recovery unit. [Means for solving the problem]

[0005]

[0005] To describe the manner in which at least some of the advantages and features of the present invention may be obtained, a more particular description of embodiments of the present invention will be made by reference to specific embodiments thereof which are illustrated in the accompanying drawings. It should be understood that these drawings depict only typical embodiments of the invention and therefore should not be considered limiting of the scope of the invention, but that embodiments of the present invention may be described and explained with additional specificity and detail through the use of the accompanying drawings. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0006] [Figure 1]

[0006] FIG. 1 is a plan view disclosing aspects of an exemplary well site layout and overview without a vapor recovery device. [Figure 2]

[0007] FIG. 1 is a front view disclosing one embodiment of a low or high pressure piping overview from the knockout to the flare stack without a vapor recovery device. [Figure 3]

[0008] FIG. 1 discloses aspects of an optical volumetric lidar Doppler analyzer (ALDA) according to one embodiment. [Figure 4]

[0009] FIG. 1 discloses an embodiment of an exemplary field-assembled ALDA. [Figure 5]

[0010] FIG. 1 discloses an overview of an exemplary system including a field assembly diagram of the knockout and flare stack. [Figure 6]

[0011] FIG. 1 is a schematic front view of an exemplary knockout to flare stack assembly; [Figure 7]

[0012] FIG. 10 discloses exemplary secondary installation options for the exemplary optical volume ALDA. [Figure 8]

[0013] 1A-1C disclose aspects of the operation of an exemplary optical volume ALDA. [Figure 9]

[0014] FIG. 1 is an exemplary operational flow diagram. [Figure 10]

[0015] FIG. 1 is an exemplary ALDA electrical circuit diagram. [Figure 11]

[0016] FIG. 1 discloses an overview of a well site with a vapor recovery unit (VRU). [Figure 12]

[0017] FIG. 10 discloses the volume of gas to a VRU as measured by an exemplary ALDA. [Figure 13]

[0018] FIG. 10 discloses the volume of gas into the flare stack as measured by an exemplary ALDA. [Figure 14]

[0019] FIG. 1 discloses an exemplary method, according to one embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0007]

[0020]

[0002] Embodiments of the present invention relate generally to downhole systems, components, and methods. One or more particular embodiments are directed to an optical system configured and operable to measure the volume and velocity of gas produced and / or encountered in connection with downhole operations. While optical measurement devices operative to measure flow velocity exist, no optical devices currently exist that are configured or operative to transmit a lidar beam axially or parallel to the flow inside a pipe to measure the volumetric flow rate of a fluid, liquid, gas, or solid. Thus, at a minimum, exemplary embodiments may provide a significant advancement over known technology.

[0008]

[0021] One exemplary embodiment includes an optical system suitable for use in downhole applications, i.e., an Axial Optical Volumetric LiDAR Doppler Analyzer (ALDA), which may include, for example, an optical transmitter and receiver. A Doppler LiDAR may include a transmitter, such as a laser, that generates and transmits a pulse or continuous stream of energy that impinges or illuminates a volume of interest. The Doppler LiDAR receiver may collect the backscattered energy and then estimate the returning backscattered energy and Doppler shift. In this manner, the optical system may be able to measure parameters including, but not limited to, flow rate, velocity, and volume of a fluid, such as a gas. These parameters may be measured for flowing material and / or static volumes of material, where applicable.

[0009]

[0022] It should be noted that, as used herein, "fluid" is intended to be broadly interpreted and includes, but is not limited to, liquids, gases, combinations of one or more liquids, combinations of one or more gases, combinations of one or more liquids and one or more gases, liquids and gases containing solid matter such as particulates, combinations of gases and / or liquids containing particulates, and substances of any phase, including any group and combination of the foregoing. Steam, as referred to herein, is one example of a fluid.

[0010]

[0023] Embodiments of the present invention, such as the examples disclosed herein, can be beneficial in a variety of ways. For example, as will become apparent from this disclosure, one or more embodiments of the present invention, in any combination, can provide one or more advantageous and unexpected effects, some examples of which are set forth below. Such effects may be achieved in any manner. It should be noted that no limitation of the scope of the claimed invention is intended, and should not be construed, as such. Furthermore, it should be noted that nothing in this specification should be construed as constituting a required or essential element of any invention or embodiment. Rather, various aspects of the disclosed embodiments may be combined in various ways to define still further embodiments. For example, any element of any embodiment may be combined with any element of any other embodiment to define yet another further embodiment. Such further embodiments are deemed to be within the scope of the present disclosure. Similarly, no embodiment embraced within the scope of the present disclosure should be construed as solving any particular problem or being limited to that solution. Any such embodiment should not be construed as implementing, or being limited to, any particular technical effect or solution. Finally, it is not required that any embodiment implement any of the advantageous or unexpected effects disclosed herein.

[0011]

[0024] For example, one advantageous aspect of an embodiment is that it can provide a relatively high accuracy and turndown ratio, i.e., range of operation, relative to the limited range of operation typically associated with components such as orifice flow meters. As another example, an embodiment does not require compression of the fluid whose flow rate is to be measured prior to the device measuring the flow rate. In contrast, typical orifice-type measurement devices require the fluid to be compressed in order to obtain relatively reliable flow rate measurements. Furthermore, an exemplary embodiment of the ALDA may be relatively less expensive than conventional flow measurement devices. As a further example, an embodiment may omit the use of a radioactive source as a mechanism to facilitate flow measurement. In contrast, oilfield density meters, for example, typically employ radioactive sources to facilitate measurements. Furthermore, an embodiment may not require the use of high voltages, high temperatures, or cryogenic liquids, as may be required with devices such as mass spectrometers and mass analyzers. Additionally, an embodiment may be configured and operative to transmit a lidar beam axially or parallel to the direction of flow inside a pipe or other element to measure the volumetric flow rate of a fluid, liquid, gas, or solids through the pipe or other element. As a final example, an embodiment may be capable of operating with the requirement for the use of a flow restriction or other device located in the fluid passage in which the embodiment is located. Various other advantages of one or more exemplary embodiments will become apparent from this disclosure.

[0012]

[0025] A. Example Use Cases for One or More Embodiments

[0026] Generally, one embodiment of the invention comprises an optical system that can be installed within a system of piping that transports hydrocarbons and water to a set of tanks. The optical system can be installed within a system of piping that transports hydrocarbons and water from a set of tanks to a sales or separation area. The optical system can be installed within a system of piping that transports vapor or vent gases to a vapor recovery unit or a flare or discharge area.

[0013]

[0027] A.1 Midstream Oil and Gas

[0028] The midstream oil and gas portion of the system may include and / or require the processing, storage, and / or transportation of hydrocarbons to a refinery and / or any end user. In such environments, hydrocarbons are transferred or transported from upstream to the midstream system. Once the hydrocarbons arrive in the midstream system, they may proceed through a separation process prior to refining and transportation to downstream users, such as refineries, via truck, rail, or piping systems. Water may also be present and may require separation from the hydrocarbons. The hydrocarbon mixture becomes oil and gas and water as a three-phase separation for midstream facilities prior to transportation. Facilities may include numerous systems of piping or other mechanisms for transporting hydrocarbons, water, and other fluids and gases throughout the midstream facility prior to transportation. These systems may require measurement instrumentation, such as an embodiment of the present invention, configured and operable to acquire data such as volume, velocity, density, and composition.

[0014]

[0029] With reference to the exemplary context of the midstream oil and gas portion of the exemplary system, an embodiment of the present invention may be configured and operable to measure fluid volume, velocity, density, and composition. An embodiment may be installed within a system of piping that may transport hydrocarbons and water. An embodiment may also be installed within a vessel, tank, or any other volume through which and / or from which midstream liquids are transported. An embodiment may also be installed within a system of piping that may lead to a vent, flare, or discharge.

[0015]

[0030] A.2 Downstream Oil and Gas

[0031] The downstream oil and gas portion of the system may be the portion of the system where hydrocarbons are transferred or transported from / to midstream or upstream markets and undergo refining. Refining processes may include producing chemicals, gasoline, diesel, lubricants, kerosene, or any products or by-products that the end user or refinery may have the capacity to produce.

[0016]

[0032] The hydrocarbon refining process can be extensive and complex. Numerous stages occur during the hydrocarbon refining process. These stages can vary depending on what products are being produced by the refinery or end user. Every step, and the stages that hydrocarbons may pass through during this process, may require, for example, waste products, emissions, and vent gases to be released to the atmosphere or burned off in a flare stack. Some waste products, such as natural gas, may also be used to power a refinery that purchases electricity from the grid or a natural gas power plant that is used to generate electricity for any end user.

[0017]

[0033] With reference to the exemplary context of the downstream oil and gas portion of the exemplary system, an embodiment of the present invention may be configured and operative to accurately obtain this data. In particular, an embodiment may measure the volume and velocity of hydrocarbons or refined products generated or produced during the refining process. An embodiment may measure the volume and velocity of exhaust gases, as well as the volume and size of particulates generated and escaping with the gases from a flare stack to the atmosphere or vented and exhausted through the stack of a natural gas power plant.

[0018]

[0034] A.3 Power and Energy Industry

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

[0019]

[0036] A coal-fired power plant may include a boiler in which coal is burned or undergoes combustion to heat tubes built into the boiler's wall. These tubes are filled with water, which is then turned to steam during the combustion or heating process. After the coal undergoes combustion and burning, the by-products are ash, particulates, and toxic gases. These gases and particulates are then vented to the atmosphere through a stack. Both the gas volume and the size and volume of the particulates within or passing through the stack may not be constantly monitored by the system.

[0020]

[0037] Oil-fired power plants operate similarly to coal-fired power plants. One major difference is the fuel used to generate heat. In this case, the fuel burned or flared in the boiler is oil. Burned oil produces by-products such as combustion gases. These gases can be vented to the atmosphere through a stack. Gases that are vented to the atmosphere do not need to be constantly monitored by the system.

[0021]

[0038] A natural gas-fired power plant may have a heat recovery steam generator (HRSG), or boiler, in which natural gas can be burned. The HRSG may combust or ignite the natural gas before or while it enters the natural gas turbine. The heat generated by the ignited natural gas then enters a boiler system, travels through a series of systems, and is exhausted or vented to the atmosphere through a stack. The volume or velocity of the natural gas may not always be monitored before it enters the natural gas turbine. The exhausted or vented gases that leave the stack and travel to the atmosphere may not always be monitored by a system.

[0022]

[0039] With reference to the exemplary context of the power and energy industry, an embodiment of the present invention may be configured and operable to measure the volume and velocity of exhaust gases vented to the atmosphere after undergoing a combustion process, such as may be performed in industries including, but not limited to, the energy, power, manufacturing, refining, oil and gas, and automotive or transportation industries. An embodiment may also measure the volume and velocity of gases, such as, for example, natural gas entering and / or exiting a combustion system or process, where one exemplary combustion system may comprise one or more natural gas turbines.

[0023]

[0040] B. Overview of One or More Embodiments

[0041] One or more exemplary embodiments of the present invention comprise an optical system (one example of which is an axial optical volumetric lidar Doppler analyzer, which may be referred to herein simply as "ALDA"), which may include, for example, an optical transmitter and receiver. Briefly, an ALDA may include an optical transmitter, such as a laser, that generates and transmits a pulse or continuous stream of energy that impinges or irradiates a volume of interest, including any static or flowing fluid present within the volume of interest. The ALDA's optical receiver may collect the backscattered optical energy and then estimate the returning backscattered energy and Doppler shift.

[0024]

[0042] Further information related to aspects of Doppler lidar is disclosed at https: / / www.sciencedirect.com / topics / earth-and-planetary-sciences / doppler-lidar, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. More particularly, an optical transmitter and receiver according to one embodiment may be installed within a mechanical device, which may include an aperture and a control panel. The mechanical device may be installed inside a pipe, conduit, or any system through which fluids, such as liquids, gases, emissions, aerosols, and / or particulates, may travel. An embodiment of an ALDA may be installed in-line, such that liquids, gases, and solids flow within the line passing through and / or around the ALDA. In other embodiments, even if the ALDA is not installed in-line, the ALDA may be installed at a location where the ALDA can measure aspects of the flow within the line. In some embodiments, multiple instances of the ALDA may be installed at various locations throughout the piping system.

[0025]

[0043] Depending on the embodiment, the system may be installed with the optics pointing axially or pointing longitudinally, down or up through the pipe or system in which the optics are installed. Axially pointing optics may include a LIDAR (optical detection and ranging) system and / or other optics configured to transmit optical signals. The LIDAR optics may transmit optical signals axially down the pipe through which hydrocarbons, such as, but not limited to, gases, liquids, emissions, aerosols, and / or particulates, are flowing. The transmission of the optical signals may be a stream or pulses of energy that illuminates, illuminates, or impinges on the area of ​​interest. A receiver may collect or receive data as backscattered energy. The receiver may then estimate the Doppler shift of the returned backscatter. The scatterers may be molecules, particulates, suspended solids, or liquids and / or aerosols.

[0026]

[0044] Results or data gathered or derivable from the Doppler shift and backscatter transmitted back to the optical receiver may include or enable the determination of the volume or volumetric flow rate of gas and liquid flowing through the system, the size and dimensions of suspended solids and / or particulates, as well as the velocity of flow through the system, and the pressure of the fluid within the system.

[0027]

[0045] An embodiment of the ALDA may be configured and operable to estimate the error between the mean frequency, the number of detected incident backscattered objects, such as, but not limited to, aerosols, and the bandwidth of the return. The ALDA may be configured and operable such that the transmitter has a narrow spectral width and optimal transmit energy. Exemplary spectral widths and wavelength ranges employed in some embodiments include spectral widths in the range of about 0.1 nm to about 2.0 nm, and any subranges therein. Wavelengths as generated by the transmitter employed in exemplary embodiments include wavelengths in the range of about 300 nm to about 1100 nm, and any subranges therein.

[0028]

[0046] The ALDA may be powered by a combination of energy sources, including but not limited to, natural gas, solar (photovoltaic), heat, fuel cells, batteries, or directly connected to grid-supplied electricity. Data collected by the ALDA may be stored internally within the ALDA and / or transmitted to a host via Ethernet, Wi-Fi, or Bluetooth, or through a wired cable connected to the ALDA. The host may comprise an HMI (human-machine interface), PLC (programmable logic controller), or CPU (central processing unit). Embodiments may include a display that displays information about ALDA operation.

[0029]

[0047] C. Detailed Discussion of Aspects of One or More Embodiments

[0048] Referring now to the drawings, information relating to aspects of one or more exemplary embodiments of the present invention is provided. Such information is provided by way of example and is not intended to limit the scope of the invention in any way.

[0030]

[0049] C.1 Well site

[0050] Turning first to FIG. 1 , an exemplary well site 100 is disclosed in connection with which an embodiment may be employed. The well site 100 may include one or more wells 102. Generally, hydrocarbons produced from the wellbore of the well 102, along with water and other waste products, may flow in a single line to a high-pressure separation vessel, discussed below. The well site 100 may further include a tank set 104, which may include one or more tanks 104a. The oil, gas, and water may be stored in the tank set 104. Inside the tank set 104, the oil, gas, and water undergo further natural separation. For example, oil may be collected from the tank set 104 and transported by truck or line to a sales department. Additionally, water may also be collected from the tank set 104 and transported by truck or line to a disposal department. The additional residence time in the tank 104a may result in additional gas dissolving from both the water and the oil. This gas rises to the top of the tank 104a and may be referred to herein as "tank gas vapor."

[0031]

[0051] The well site 100 may further include a water transfer line 106. The water transfer line 106 may or may not be included in the tank set 104. The water transfer line 106 is used to transfer water from the tank 104a to a truck to be withdrawn for disposal or treatment. A sales line 108, or a line to the midstream oil and gas portion of the system, or simply "midstream," may be connected to the tank set 104. The sales line 108 may be used to transfer hydrocarbons and some water to midstream facilities or directly to sales. Similarly, the well site 100 may include a low pressure (LP) line 110. This line 110 may be used to transfer steam, effluent, Or other gases may be vented out through the top of tank set 104 to LP line 110, from where they may be transferred to a flare or VRU. Well site 100 may also be provided with a power and communications station 112. Power, communications, and control for well site 100 may be located in power and communications station 112.

[0032]

[0052] Continuing to refer to the example of FIG. 1 , the exemplary well site 100 may include a high-pressure (HP) vessel 114, which may include or incorporate a processor / separator. Generally, the HP vessel 114 is where the oil, water, and gas are separated. The oil and water may be transferred to a tank set 104, along with small amounts of gas that remain dissolved in the liquid in solution. The high-pressure gas may be transferred from the well 102 to a sales department or to a flare stack, discussed below. The HP vessel 114 and its connected high-pressure lines are configured to handle higher pressure gases and liquids.

[0033]

[0053] In an exemplary configuration, three fluid lines may connect to the HP vessel 114. The first of these may be an oil line 114a, which functions to transfer oil to tank 104a of the tank set 104. Another of the three fluid lines may be a water line 114b, which functions to transfer water to tank 104a of the tank set 104. A third line (not shown) may comprise an HP line for a gas sales or flare section. This HP line may function to transfer water to the sales or flare section, an example of which is discussed below. In a system reversal situation, this third line may also route liquid to the flare section.

[0034]

[0054] As shown in FIG. 1 , well site 100 may further include an HP line 116 connected to HP vessel 114. HP line 116 functions to transfer high-pressure liquid or gas to the flare stack. Well site 100 may also include one or more knockouts 118. Knockouts 118 may be provided to allow liquids and / or solids emerging from the flow path to fall away from the gas as it travels to flare stack 120. Knockouts 118 may be placed on both the HP and LP lines of well site 100.

[0035]

[0055] Finally, the well site 100 may include a flare stack 120. The flare stack 120 may be the final disposition for the gas and tank vapor gas. In the flare stack 120, the gas may be flared or, in small amounts, vented to the atmosphere. The flare stack 120 may have two flares, one for the LP tank vapor and one for the HP line 116.

[0036]

[0056] C.2 LP / HP Overview from Knockout to Flare Stack without VRU

[0057] Figure 2 discloses an exemplary LP / HP system 200. Except where otherwise noted, components in Figure 2 may be similar or identical to components discussed with respect to other figures.

[0037]

[0058] In the example of Figure 2, line 202 may be provided that can function as either an LP line or an HP line, or both. When functioning as an LP line, line 202 may be used to receive vapor or vent gases escaping from the top of the tank set (see Figure 1). When functioning as an HP line, line 202 may operate to transport high-pressure liquids or gases to the flare stack. Note that as used herein, "low" and "high" pressures are not limited to any particular pressure or range of pressures. An example of a low pressure is approximately 0.01 oz / psi, and an example of a high pressure is approximately 207 MPa (approximately 30,000 psi).

[0038]

[0059] Continuing with reference to FIG. 2 , LP / HP system 200 may include one or more fittings 204 that connect piping, tubing, and fittings together. Exemplary fittings that may be employed in one embodiment include those sold under the trademark VICTAULIC® (https: / / www.victaulic.com / ), such as rigid fittings. Any fittings mentioned herein may comprise VICTAULIC® fittings. Alternatively, flanged connections may be used. Various piping fittings, such as elbows 206, may be employed and may comprise, for example, welded or flanged connections. Knockouts 208 may be provided where liquids and / or solids can emerge from the flow path and fall away from the gas as it travels to the flare stack. As shown, aerosols and suspended particulates / solids, all collectively indicated at 210, may sometimes be present within knockout 208. Note that various materials 210, in one embodiment, may cause the generation of backscattered energy that may be detected by the optical receiver of an embodiment of the ALDA. The knockout 208 may also occasionally hold various liquids 212. These may be liquids that may have come out of suspension in the system and are now contained in the knockout 208.

[0039]

[0060] Exemplary LP / HP system 200 may include or be connected to a flare pit 214. Generally, flare pit 214 may contain the flare section and create a barrier for safety purposes. Flare pit 214 may be located below flare stack 216. Flare stack 216 may be the final system through which exhaust or vent gases pass before being transported to the atmosphere. Flare stack 216 is where gases may be flared and vented to the atmosphere.

[0040]

[0061] C.3 Aspects of an Exemplary Embodiment of ALDA

[0062] 3, there is disclosed an exemplary optical volumetric lidar Doppler analyzer (ALDA) 300, in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention. The exemplary ALDA 300 may comprise various components, exemplary embodiments of which are discussed below.

[0041]

[0063] C.3.1 Mechanical

[0064] 3 , the ALDA 300 may include a panel enclosure cap 302. The panel enclosure cap 302 may be fastened to a panel enclosure housing 306, which includes an electrical connector 308, such as with panel enclosure fasteners 304, and may fit onto the back of the panel enclosure housing 306. The panel enclosure cap 302 may have ports or machined passages through which instrumentation, connectors, plugs, or fittings may be installed into the panel enclosure cap 302.

[0042]

[0065] Materials used to fabricate the disk enclosure cap 302 may include, but are not limited to, aluminum, manganese, zinc, or other bronze alloys, and nickel alloys and combinations of nickel with materials such as iron, chromium, copper, or molybdenum, and combinations of stainless steel alloys and nickel, copper, or manganese, and combinations of aluminum alloys and zinc, copper, or iron, as well as other materials such as iron, titanium, polymers or plastics, carbon fiber, and tin. From a manufacturing perspective, the disk enclosure cap 302 may be cast, machined from a solid material, 3D printed, or manufactured through processes such as additive manufacturing.

[0043]

[0066] It should be noted that board enclosure fasteners 304 may be used to releasably fasten board enclosure cap 302 to board enclosure housing 306. Board enclosure fasteners 304 may or may not be of the same / similar material as board enclosure cap 302.

[0044]

[0067] The electrical connector 308 transmits power, communication, and control signals from the ALDA 300 to a host or other external device such as, but not limited to, a PLC, HMI, or CPU. The electrical connector 308 may be used to connect to an external power source. The electrical connector 308 may be hermetically sealed to the enclosure cap 302 or may be sealed using an epoxy-to-metal bond or by incorporating a polymer or plastic seal around the OD of the electrical connector 308 or the ID of the interface for the electrical connector 308 in the enclosure housing 306. In one embodiment, the electrical connector 308 may include an antenna that allows the ALDA 300 to communicate remotely with other systems and devices, including a host, such as by Bluetooth and / or Wi-Fi communication.

[0045]

[0068] The board enclosure 306 may contain a CPU, control panel, PCB (printed circuit board), frame, and numerous machined, cast, or 3D printed interfaces that allow for the implementation of components within the body of the board enclosure 306. Materials used to fabricate the board enclosure 306 may include aluminum, manganese, zinc, or other bronze alloys, as well as nickel alloys or combinations of materials such as nickel with iron, chromium, copper, and molybdenum, as well as stainless steel alloys and combinations of nickel, copper, and manganese, as well as aluminum alloys and combinations of zinc, copper, and iron, and other materials that may also include iron, titanium, polymers and plastics, carbon fiber, and tin. The board enclosure 306 may be cast, machined from a solid material, 3D printed, or manufactured through processes such as additive manufacturing.

[0046]

[0069] 3 , the exemplary ALDA 300 may include a panel frame 310. The panel frame 310 may be configured and operable to contain a CPU, PCB, or any other panel needed to implement instrumentation that may be incorporated into the ALDA 300. One example of such a panel is a control panel 312. In one embodiment, the control panel 312 may be a flat, insulated surface that may have switches, meters, diodes, memory devices, data storage devices, transistors, processors, dials, or any microchips needed to manage control, communication, and storage for the electrical components and devices associated with the ALDA 300.

[0047]

[0070] C.3.2 Optics

[0071] 3, ALDA 300 may include various optical components and various types of optical interfaces. For example, a pigtail connector 314 may be provided for connecting the optical components to a board, such as control board 312. In particular, pigtail connector 314 may connect an optical transmitter and an optical receiver, discussed below, to control board 312. In particular, another pigtail connector 316 may be provided that connects control board 312 to a connector or antenna that sends / receives data to / from a host server or other system that communicates with ALDA 300.

[0048]

[0072] A disk enclosure flange 318 may be provided that may be used to connect the disk enclosure housing 306 to the optics enclosure, an example of which is discussed below. The disk enclosure flange 318 may be fastened, pinned, or fused to the optics enclosure, such as by welding or brazing. The disk enclosure flange 318 may also have a seal incorporated into a mating or mating surface that mates with the optics enclosure. The seal may be, for example, a polymer, ceramic, or metal-to-metal bond seal created by torque applied to a fastener.

[0049]

[0073] The panel enclosure flange 318 may be manufactured to be integral with the panel enclosure housing 306, which may eliminate the need to fasten the panel enclosure flange 318 to the panel enclosure housing 306. Materials used to manufacture the panel enclosure flange 318 include aluminum, manganese, zinc, and other bronze alloys, as well as nickel alloys or combinations of nickel with materials such as iron, chromium, copper, and molybdenum, as well as stainless steel alloys or combinations of nickel, copper, and manganese, and combinations of aluminum alloys with zinc, copper, or iron. The enclosure flange 318 may comprise other materials that may include titanium, as well as other materials that may include iron, titanium, polymers or plastics, carbon fiber, and tin. The enclosure flange 318, and other metal or plastic components disclosed herein, may be cast, machined from a solid material, 3D printed, or manufactured through processes such as additive manufacturing. The enclosure flange 318 may be connected to the enclosure housing 306 with one or more fasteners 320.

[0050]

[0074] As shown in FIG. 3 , an optical connector 322 may be provided that connects the electrical cable or pigtail connector 314 to the optical transmitter and optical receiver. This optical connector 322 may be permanently soldered in place or may be connected using a plug connection. The optical connector 322 may include connections for transmitting power, communication signals, and control signals. It may also include an optical casing 324 having a surface that interfaces with the enclosure flange 318. This surface may be hermetically sealed, surrounded by an O-ring or gasket-type seal, bonded to metal by pressing or torqueing a thin metal washer, or epoxy-bonded to the metal or material from which the enclosure flange 318 is made. This interface may hold the optical transmitter and optical receiver, discussed below, in place so that they are concentric with a window or area of ​​interest through which the optical receiver can collect and record data, such as backscatter information.

[0051]

[0075] The optics enclosure cap 326 may mate with, be fastened, pinned, or fused to, the optics enclosure, an example of which is discussed below. The optics enclosure cap 326 may detach from the optical transmitter and optical receiver components once they are installed and sealed to the enclosure flange 318. The optics enclosure cap 326 may have seals built in to prevent outside contaminants from entering the optics enclosure. The optics enclosure cap 326 may have passages, passages, or multiple interfaces machined or 3D printed on its surface that allow additional instrumentation or components, beyond the optical transmitter and receiver passages, to couple with or assist in the operation of the ALDA 300. Such instrumentation and components that may be incorporated into the optics enclosure cap 326 may include, but are not limited to, temperature sensors, heating elements, cooling systems, and pressure transducers. One or more optics enclosure fasteners 328 may be provided that may be used to fasten the optics enclosure cap 326 to the optics enclosure, an example of which is discussed below.

[0052]

[0076] Materials used to fabricate the optics enclosure cap 326 may be aluminum, manganese, zinc, or other bronze alloys, and nickel alloys and combinations of nickel with materials such as iron, chromium, copper, and molybdenum, or may comprise combinations of stainless steel alloys and nickel, copper, and manganese, and combinations of aluminum alloys and zinc, copper, or iron, as well as other materials that may include iron, titanium, polymers or plastics, carbon fiber, and tin. The optics enclosure cap 326 may be cast, machined from a solid material, 3D printed, or manufactured through processes such as additive manufacturing.

[0053]

[0077] An optical enclosure seal 330 may be provided that may prevent contaminants from entering the ALDA 300. The optical enclosure seal 330 may be made from a polymer or plastic, ceramic, or epoxy resin bonding. Exemplary optical enclosure seals 330 include, but are not limited to, O-rings. Generally, herein, components to be connected together may be configured such that line pressure is applied to the components to maintain the components in fluid-tight engagement with one another until the line pressure is released.

[0054]

[0078] As previously mentioned, one embodiment of the ALDA 300 may include an optical enclosure 332 that may house, among other things, an optical transmitter 334 and an optical receiver 336. 32 may be configured and operable to incorporate goggles or small, narrow tunnels through which the optical transmitter 334 may transmit a beam and through which the backscatter may be received by the optical receiver 336. The transmission of the beam by the optical transmitter 334 and the reception of the backscatter signal by the optical receiver 336 are indicated by respective arrows in FIG. 3. In one embodiment, lenses, collimators, and other passive optical devices may be incorporated into the optical envelope goggles.

[0055]

[0079] Continuing with reference to FIG. 3 , optical transmitter 334 may be located within optical enclosure 332 and may be configured and operable to transmit a beam or laser beam or other optical signal. The beam may be any color, such as red, yellow, blue, green, or orange. The color of the laser beam may be varied depending on the application. By way of example, a green laser, which can emit a signal that remains coherent over long distances, may be used in low-visibility or dark applications; a red laser may be used in low-wavelength and short-distance applications; and a blue laser, which has a shorter wavelength, may be used in applications requiring relatively high resolution. In general, exemplary embodiments may employ electromagnetic signal transmitters capable of transmitting signals within the electromagnetic spectrum, which may be used to enable fluid volume measurements to be made on static / moving fluids. Thus, embodiments are not limited to the use of lasers.

[0056]

[0080] Generally, when a beam transmitted by the transmitter of the ALDA 300 hits a moving target, such as a fluid moving toward or away from the ALDA 300, the specific wavelength of the resulting backscattered or reflected light produced from the target changes or shifts to be higher or lower than the wavelength of the initial beam transmitted, depending on the surrounding conditions. This can be given by the equation f = (c ± v ± vs) f, where C is the amplitude of the wave in the medium, v is the speed of the receiver relative to the medium (positive if the receiver is moving toward the source and negative if it is moving away from the source), vs is the speed of the source relative to the medium (positive if the source is moving away from the receiver and negative if it is moving in the opposite direction), f is the observed frequency, and f is the emitted frequency. Note that frequency (f) = 1 / T (period: time for a single oscillation), and the wave speed v is the distance traveled by one wave per unit time (i.e., λ / T), so v = f λ.

[0057]

[0081] An optical receiver 336, which may comprise a detector such as a photodiode or photomultiplier tube, may be located within the optical enclosure 332 and is configured and operable to receive the backscattered energy and convert fractional information based on the fraction of (backscattered energy (received by the optical receiver 336) / transmitted energy (transmitted by the optical transmitter 334)) into an electrical signal that can be used to estimate the Doppler shift of the returned data.

[0058]

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

[0059]

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

[0060]

[0084] When measuring flow rate, the LIDAR is typically positioned so that the laser beam is directed axially, i.e., generally parallel to the direction of flow. By measuring the velocity of a large number of particles over time, lidar can then calculate the average flow rate of a fluid or gas.

[0061]

[0085] In one embodiment, one or more fasteners 338 may be used to connect the panel enclosure flange 318 to an optical enclosure 340. The optical enclosure 340 may be configured and operable to contain and house components such as an optical transmitter 334 and an optical receiver 336, and a window 342 that is transparent to optical signals. The optical enclosure 340 may also be configured and operable to directly interface with the surface of an opening, piping, enclosure, or area through which the ALDA 300 may transmit and receive data. The optical enclosure 340 may also contain other instrumentation such as, but not limited to, temperature sensors, heating elements, cooling systems, and pressure transducers.

[0062]

[0086] Materials used to fabricate optics enclosure 340 can be, but are not limited to, aluminum, manganese, zinc, and other bronze alloys, as well as nickel alloys or combinations of nickel with materials such as iron, chromium, copper, and molybdenum, as well as stainless steel alloys and nickel, copper, and manganese, or aluminum alloys and zinc, copper, and iron, as well as other materials such as iron, titanium, polymers and plastics, carbon fiber, and tin. Optics enclosure 340 can be cast, machined from solid materials, 3D printed, or manufactured through processes such as additive manufacturing.

[0063]

[0087] As mentioned, the optical enclosure 340 may have a window 342 attached thereto. The window 342 may be configured in any suitable shape and size. The window 342 may be incorporated into the ALDA 300 to allow the transmitter beam to pass therethrough and backscattered energy comprising one or more optical signals to return to the optical receiver 336. The window 342 may also incorporate an electrode or heating element configured and operable to prevent the window 342 from fogging and to help ensure that condensation does not form on the surface of the window 342. A coating may also be added to the surface of the window 342 to help prevent condensation and fogging from forming on the surface of the window 342. The material of the window 342 may be sapphire, glass, laminate, stain, anneal, polyvinyl butyral, or resin. The material of the window 342 may be double-strength, tempered, or insulating.

[0064]

[0088] Continuing with reference to FIG. 3 , the ALDA 300 may include a flange seal 344, which may take the form of an O-ring, for example, to ensure that no contaminants escape or enter the ALDA 300. An adapter flange 346 may allow the ALDA 300 to be installed into piping, an enclosure, or any opening that leads to a source from which data may be required to be collected. The adapter flange 346 may be incorporated into the system or equipment to which the ALDA 300 is to be connected. The flange seal 344 may seal the adapter flange 346 to the optical enclosure 340, both of which are connected by a flange fastener 348. Finally, the adapter flange 346 may define an aperture 350 or other opening positioned for optical communication with the window 342 so that optical signals can travel back and forth through the adapter flange 346.

[0065]

[0089] C.4 (Locally Assembled) ALDA

[0090] 4, an exemplary ALDA 400 is disclosed assembled and installed in a fitting 402, such as a T-fitting, although the ALDA 400 may be more generally installed in any piping or fitting to which the ALDA 400 can be mechanically connected. Unless otherwise specified, the ALDA 400 may be installed in any piping or fitting to which the ALDA 400 can be mechanically connected. The ALDA300 derivative may be similar to or identical to the ALDA300 derivative.

[0066]

[0091] Once installed, the ALDA 400 can be powered up and ready to begin transmitting a beam down the piping, i.e., axially relative to the piping. The ALDA 400 can be installed to transmit its beam with or against the flow of gases and emissions. The ALDA 400 can be configured and operative to incorporate adapter flanges that can allow the ALDA 400 to be installed in a variety of different sizes of piping and emission and exhaust systems. The ALDA 400 can be configured and operative to be installed within the piping, thus eliminating the need to monitor gases, liquids, emissions, or exhausts that have escaped to the atmosphere or otherwise exited the piping.

[0067]

[0092] In one embodiment, the tee fitting 402 may be connected to another component by a coupling 404. Generally, a component or fitting may direct and / or change the direction of a fluid flowing through a system. An elbow or tee section may allow the ALDA 400 to be installed in the system. In the example of FIG. 4, the ALDA 400 may be attached to the tee fitting 402 in the same or similar manner as the ALDA 300 may be attached to the adapter flange 346 as shown in FIG. 3. Continuing to refer to the example of FIG. 4, the direction of flow 406 is the direction in which one or more fluids, such as gases, vapors, emissions, and effluents, flow within a fluid conduit, such as piping.

[0068]

[0093] As shown in FIG. 4 , the optical transmitter of the ALDA 400 may transmit a beam or optical signal 408, or in one embodiment, perform an optical scan down the pipe, i.e., in a direction parallel to the direction of flow or offset from the direction of flow by approximately 0 to 10 degrees. Performing an “optical scan,” as used herein, may involve transmitting an optical signal, such as with a laser or other optical transmitter. More specifically, optical scanning involves using a scanning device, such as a scanner or lidar, to capture an image or data from an object using light. This may be done by directing an optical signal toward the object and measuring the reflection or absorption of the light. The reflected or absorbed light may then be detected by a sensor, and the resulting data may be used to generate an image or capture information about the object.

[0069]

[0094] In one embodiment, the color of the optical signal beam may be, for example, red, green, yellow, orange, or blue. The optical transmitter may transmit a beam with or against the direction of the flow 406 to perform optical scanning. The optical transmitter beam may be configured with a narrow spectral width, high coherence, and maximum transmit energy to produce more precise and accurate survey results and measurements. As further shown in FIG. 4 , backscatter 410 from reflections of the optical signal by materials in the piping may return to the optical receiver. The backscatter 410 may comprise high-energy electrons or photons that may be generated by scattering events produced by incident electrons in the transmitter beam.

[0070]

[0095] C.5 From knockout to flare stack (field assembly diagram)

[0096] FIG. 5 discloses a section 500 of an exhaust system including a knockout and piping through which gases and emissions flow. FIG. 5 discloses a representation of a pre-assembly in which an elbow section of the piping system may be replaced with a T-section of piping that allows an ALDA 502 to be installed. In particular, an adapter flange 504 may allow the ALDA 502 to be connected to piping or any other component 506 that carries or directs a fluid from which the ALDA 502 may gather data. In the example of FIG. 5, the component 506 comprises a T-fitting, but may alternatively comprise an elbow fitting. Generally, fittings such as elbows and T-fittings may direct and / or change the direction of fluid flow through the system. Component 506 may be connected to another component by one or more couplings 508.

[0071]

[0097] Exemplary section 500 may include knockout 510. Knockout 510 may be installed at or define a low point in section 500 or other system and act as a phase separator that functions to separate oil, water, and gas. Knockout 510 may perform three-phase separation, where liquids and solids fall to the bottom of knockout 510, and gas, aerosols, or suspended solids remain in the flow stream and may then be discharged, vented, flared, or captured by a VRU downstream of knockout 510, for example.

[0072]

[0098] Exemplary section 500 may further include an elbow 512 connected within section 500 by fitting 508. Elbow 512 may function to direct the flow of emissions, effluent, or gas from knockout 510 to a flare or VRU. Finally, exemplary section 500 may include piping 514. Piping 514 may include LP or HP piping, depending on the vapor pressure and / or flow rate of the gas or liquid through the piping system that includes section 500.

[0073]

[0099] C.6 Knockout to Flare (Assembled Front View)

[0100] 6 discloses an exemplary section 600 of an exhaust system in which the elbow has been replaced with a T-section and ALDA (as compared to the example of FIG. 5). The exemplary section 600 may include piping 602 that may carry HP or LP materials depending on the steam pressure and / or flow rate of the gas or liquid through the piping system that includes section 600. A fitting 604 may connect the piping 602 to an elbow 606. The elbow 606 may include a piping fixture that directs the flow of emissions, effluents, or gases from a source such as a combustion source, a tank set, or a well to a knockout 608.

[0074]

[0101] Knockout 608 may act as a phase separator, separating oil, water, and gas. Knockout 608 may perform three-phase separation, where liquids and solids fall out the bottom of knockout 608, and gas, aerosols, or suspended solids remain in the flow stream and may then be discharged, vented, flared, or captured by a VRU, for example. Fitting 610 may connect knockout 608 to a T-fitting of ALDA 612. ALDA 612 may then be connected to piping 616 by another fitting 614. Piping 616 may comprise HP or LP piping, depending on the steam pressure and / or the flow rate of gas or liquid through the piping system that includes section 600.

[0075]

[0102] C.7 Alternative installation options for ALDA

[0103] Attention now turns to FIG. 7 , which discloses an alternative approach for installing an ALDA within a gas or emissions system. This exemplary system 700 can be installed from both sides of the piping. The installed ALDA can have a prism or reflector incorporated into the system and angled at 45 degrees to allow for 90-degree transmission of energy to and from the transmitter. The prism or reflector can also be configured and operable to tilt or be steered or turned by a motion device to allow for optimal steering or redirection of the optical beam. The use of a prism or reflector can allow for transmission of an optical signal by the ALDA's optical transmitter either with or against the direction of flow.

[0076]

[0104] 7, an exemplary system 700 may include piping 702, which may carry high-pressure fluid, low-pressure fluid, effluent, or other emissions depending on the application. The piping 702 may be connected to an ALDA 706 by a fitting 704. The ALDA 750 is a piping system through which fluid flows and from which the ALDA 706 may be used to gather data. An adapter flange 708 may be included that may allow the ALDA 706 to be mounted to a pipe, fitting, or other component. The adapter flange 708 may define an opening 710 through which an optical signal may pass.

[0077]

[0105] The exemplary system 700 may include a prism 712 configured and arranged to direct or redirect a beam transmitted by an optical transmitter. The prism 712 may further be configured to direct or redirect a backscattered energy beam from the source to which the optical transmitter is directing the beam or optical signal back to the optical receiver. The prism 712 may be configured and operable to rotate, spin, turn, or otherwise undergo a change in position / orientation to direct and / or redirect the optical signal or optical beam regardless of the direction of travel or source of the optical signal or optical beam. The prism 712 may be made of and coated with any suitable material, such as, for example, glass or silicate. In one embodiment, one or more mirrors may be used in place of the prism 712.

[0078]

[0106] Continuing with reference to FIG. 7 , the optical transmitter of the ALDA 706 may transmit a beam 714 through an aperture 710 to a prism 712. The prism 712 then directs the beam 714 in the direction of flow, or axially, for emission longitudinally down the pipe. The color of the beam may be, for example, red, green, yellow, orange, or blue. The optical transmitter may transmit its beam 714 with or against the direction of flow to perform an optical scan. The optical transmitter beam may be narrow spectral width with maximum transmitted energy to generate more precise and accurate survey results and measurements.

[0079]

[0107] Beam 714 may be scattered by fluid and / or solid objects within the pipe. A backscattered optical signal 716 may then be generated and returned to the optical receiver of ALDA 706. The backscattered signal, or simply "backscatter," may comprise high energy electrons or photons that may be generated by scattering events created when electrons in the beam generated by the optical transmitter are incident and reflected by fluid or solid objects within the pipe. The backscattered signal returns through window 718 and is then directed by prism 712m back through aperture 710 to the optical receiver.

[0080]

[0108] The window 718 may be of any suitable shape or size. The window 718 may be incorporated into the ALDA 706 to allow the optical transmitter beam to pass through and allow the backscattered optical signal to return to the optical receiver of the ALDA 706. The window 718 may also include an electrode or heating element configured and operable to prevent the window 718 from fogging and to ensure that condensation does not form on the surface of the window 718. A coating may also be added to the surface of the window 718 to help prevent condensation and fogging from forming on the surface of the window 718. The material of the window 718 may include sapphire, laminated glass, tinted glass, tempered glass, polyvinyl butyral, or resin. The material of the window 718 may be double-strengthened, tempered, or insulated.

[0081]

[0109] The window housing 720 may be configured and operable to house the window 718, the prism 712, a temperature sensor, a pressure sensor, or any instrumentation that may be required for the operation of the ALDA 706. The window housing 720 may also have motors, gears, or mechanisms configured to change the position and orientation of the prism 712. For example, a motor may be used to turn or steer the prism 712 to direct or redirect optical signals. The window housing 720 may be integrally integrated with the ALDA 706 or may be implemented as a separate component that is fastened or connected to the ALDA 706.

[0082]

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

[0083]

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

[0084]

[0112] The example system 700 can include an ALDA-housing connection 722. The ALDA-housing connection 722 can be fastened with fasteners such as bolts and screws. The ALDA-housing connection 722 can also be connected by a sleeve, collar, pin, fusion, or interference fit.

[0085]

[0113] 7, fluid flow 724 may pass through example system 700 in the direction shown. Generally, the direction of flow is the direction in which one or more fluids, such as gases, vapors, emissions, or exhaust, are flowing.

[0086]

[0114] C.8 Example ALDA Operations

[0115] 8 discloses an exemplary ALDA system 800 installed within an exhaust system 900 highlighting the operation of the ALDA, which is presented by way of example and is not intended to limit the scope of the invention.

[0087]

[0116] Generally, the specific example of FIG. 8 discloses the transmission of a beam 801 by an optical transmitter axially down a pipe. The pipe has a flow direction of up toward and away from the ALDA 800. The gas flow comprises small particulates, aerosols, or suspended solids suspended within the gas or emission flow stream. The beam 801 may strike or contact particles flowing through the system, and data from that contact may be returned as backscattered energy 803 to the optical receiver. The optical receiver may then estimate the returned backscattered energy and Doppler shift. This returned data may be transmitted to a CPU, which then analyzes the data. The captured data may comprise an accurate measurement of the volume of gas or emission flowing through the system, as well as the velocity and time of each measurement. The measurements or results may be continuous or timed. The results may be presented in various forms, such as text, visual forms such as graphs, and any other form that conveys information collected and / or generated by the ALDA 800. In some embodiments, the performance of a measurement operation by the ALDA 800 may be triggered by the detection of fluid and / or fluid flow in a line or component in fluid communication with the location of the ALDA 800.

[0088]

[0117] More specifically, in one mode of operation, the ALDA800 directs light / energy / radiation so that it strikes a material in a line, and the reflected or returned energy resulting from the collision may be only a fraction of the transmitted energy. In particular, exemplary embodiments may consider the fundamental relationship between the error in the estimated mean frequency shift, the bandwidth of the returned energy, and the number of incident backscattered photons detected. To this end, the optical receiver of the ALDA800 employs two techniques for detection: (1) coherent detection of the backscattered energy within the receiver (this method may have the backscatter mixed with the oscillating laser radiation and the detector output signal, which may be the received backscattered photons); It may implement a frequency analysis function that may be employed to perform (1) direct detection (which may be a function of scattered energy and may be digitized and spectrally processed), and (2) direct detection (this approach may require an embodiment of ALDA that includes an interferometer that can optically analyze the backscattered radiation).

[0089]

[0118] Regarding measurements and the use of Doppler shift, when the ALDA800 is positioned within a pipe or other volume of interest, it can scan the volume and capture the actual volume of fluid flowing through a particular orifice, opening, pipe, or other component. This scanning can allow for the determination of the volumetric flow rate, or simply "flow rate," within the volume of interest, as described hereinafter. The volume of the fluid can be given, rather than calculated. As the flow then passes through the volume of interest, any aerosols, solids, molecules, particulates, or objects suspended in the flow stream can be detected by the ALDA800, which can determine the velocity of those detected materials. With the volume and flow rate of the fluid known, the flow rate can be determined by Q = Va, where Q is the flow rate, V is the velocity, and "a" is the area of ​​the opening through which the flow occurs. When the optical beam hits a moving target moving toward or away from the ALDA800, the specific wavelength of the scattered or reflected light produced by the target will change or shift. This explains how the Doppler effect works when incorporated into a lidar.

[0090]

[0119] In one embodiment, performing optical scanning may comprise various operations. Generally, performing optical scanning with LIDAR may include acquiring a 3D (three-dimensional) point cloud of an environment using laser pulses. More specifically, performing optical scanning, as referred to herein, may involve (1) transmitting laser pulses (LIDAR emits short pulses of laser light, sometimes in the form of a fan-shaped or cylindrical beam. The pulses may be emitted at a high frequency, such as thousands of pulses per second); (2) scanning the environment (as the laser pulses travel through the environment, they may reflect off surfaces, fluids, particles, and / or other materials to generate backscattered signals that return to the LIDAR sensor. The timing and direction of the laser pulses transmitted into / through the environment may be controlled to ensure coverage of desired areas and capture accurate data); and (3) measuring time-of-flight (as the laser pulses reflect off surfaces, fluids, particles, and / or other materials and return to the LIDAR sensor as backscattered signals, the LIDAR can measure the time-of-flight of the laser pulses as they travel to the surfaces, fluids, particles, and / or other materials). (3) measuring the time it takes for the lidar device to travel to the surface, fluid, particle, and / or other object and return. This time-of-flight measurement can be used to calculate the distance from the lidar device to the surface, fluid, particle, and / or other object, as well as the 3D position in space of one or more points on the surface, fluid, particle, and / or other object where the optical signal was originally directed), (4) generating a point cloud (lidar sensors can collect thousands, hundreds of thousands, millions, or more individual distance measurements per second, which can be combined to form a dense 3D point cloud of the scanned environment. Each point in the point cloud represents a surface or object that was hit by the laser pulse), and (5) processing the data (point cloud data can be processed using specialized software to remove noise, eliminate outliers, and generate a smooth and accurate representation, such as a 3D view of the scanned environment).

[0091]

[0120] Continuing to refer to the example of FIG. 8, an optical enclosure 802 may house an optical transmitter 804. The optical enclosure may be configured and operable to incorporate goggles or small, narrow tunnels through which the transmitter transmits a beam and small tunnels through which backscatter is collected by a receiver. The optical enclosure goggles may incorporate lenses. The optical transmitter 804 may comprise a laser or other device capable of emitting an optical signal and may be located within the optical enclosure 802. The optical transmitter 804 may emit a signal that is transmitted by the optical transmitter 804. The emitted beam, which may be a laser beam, may be red, yellow, blue, green, or orange. The color of the beam may be varied based on the application. The optical transmitter may be operable to transmit an optical signal having a narrow spectral width. The beam may be transmitted through a lens 806, which may be used to focus the beam generated by the optical transmitter 804. The lens may be constructed and operable with various thicknesses. The lens 806 may comprise a generator lens, an aspheric lens, or a cylindrical lens.

[0092]

[0121] After passing through the lens 806, if provided, the optical signal from the optical transmitter 804 may pass through a window 808. The window 808 may be of any suitable shape or size. The window 808 may be incorporated into the ALDA 800 to allow the beam 801 from the optical transmitter 804 to pass through and the backscattered energy 803 to return to the optical receiver, an example of which is discussed below. The window may also incorporate an electrode or heating element configured and operable to prevent the window from fogging and to ensure that condensation does not form on the window surface. Coatings may also be added to the window surface to help prevent condensation and fogging from forming on the window surface. The window 808 may be made of materials specified elsewhere herein for the construction of windows.

[0093]

[0122] 8, beam 801 may be generated by optical transmitter 804 and transmitted through lens 806, window 808, and travel axially down the pipe. Beam 801 may interact with materials and / or phenomena present in the pipe, such as aerosols, suspended solids, fluids, particulates, etc., collectively designated 805, and this interaction may manifest as a change in the wavelength of beam 801 resulting from, for example, turbulence and / or the direction of flow of materials moving through the system. The materials that beam 801 interacts with move with the flow of effluent, gas, or emissions.

[0094]

[0123] Interaction of beam 801 with material within the piping may result in reflection and redirection of a portion of beam 801, which may comprise photons and / or electrons. The redirected portion of beam 801 may interact with beam 801 itself to generate backscattered signal 803, which may comprise photons and / or electrons. As discussed herein, backscattered signal 803 may comprise high energy level electrons or photons that may be generated by scattering events produced by incident electrons in transmitter beam 801. Backscattered signal 803 may travel back to an optical receiver, an example of which is discussed below.

[0095]

[0124] More specifically, backscattering involves the reflection or scattering of light back toward its source by particles within a fluid medium, such as air or water. In LIDAR (light detection and ranging), backscattering occurs when a laser beam is emitted from a LIDAR sensor and hits particles in the air or water, scattering the light in all directions. Some of this scattered light is then reflected back toward the LIDAR sensor, where it is detected and analyzed, as a backscattered signal 803. When LIDAR uses Doppler shift to measure volume and flow, the LIDAR detects the backscattered light and analyzes the frequency shift of the scattered light. As particles move in a fluid or gas, they cause a Doppler shift in the frequency of the backscattered light. This shift can be used to measure the particle's velocity, from which the flow rate and volume of the fluid or gas can be calculated.

[0096]

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

[0097]

[0126] The backscattered signal 803 may first pass through a window 808 and then a lens 810 before reaching the optical receiver. The lens 810 may operate to focus the backscattered signal 803. The lens 810 may be configured and operable with various thicknesses. The lens may be a generator lens, an aspheric lens, or a cylindrical lens. Various other passive optical elements, such as a collimator, may be employed to process one or more optical signals.

[0098]

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

[0099]

[0128] C.9 Operational Flow Diagram

[0129] 9, details are provided relating to some exemplary operations that may be performed by an ALDA 900 according to one embodiment of the present invention. As shown, the ALDA 900 may include an impulse generator 902, which acts as an energy source that may provide power and control signals to an optical transmitter 904, which may comprise, for example, a laser, causing the optical transmitter 904 to transmit a signal that may comprise a beam, ray, light, or the like.

[0100]

[0130] More specifically, the optical transmitter 904 may generate an optical signal 906 that may be directed by the optical transmitter 904 and / or other components, such as a mirror or prism, toward a location, such as a location within the material 908 and / or piping or pipe. In some embodiments, the impulse generator 902 and the optical transmitter 904 may be combined together into a single assembly. In one embodiment, the optical signal 906 may comprise one or more pulses or may be transmitted continuously, for example.

[0101]

[0131] Matter 908 comprises objects and substances that may be impinged by optical signal 906 transmitted by optical transmitter 904; specifically, such objects and substances may comprise, for example, aerosols, suspended solids, fluids, and particulates, and any combination thereof. In some cases, optical signal 906 may experience changes in its wavelength and / or other properties as a result of interaction with matter 908 due to phenomena such as, but not limited to, turbulence and / or the direction of flow moving through the system. Matter 908 impinged by optical signal 906 may travel with the flow of effluents, gases, emissions, and / or other substances in the line to which ALDA 900 is connected, for example, by entrainment.

[0102]

[0132] 9, interaction of the optical signal 906 with material 908 in the line can result in the generation of a backscattered signal 910 comprising energy reflected by the material 908. The energy of the backscattered signal 910 can take various forms consistent with the nature of the originally transmitted beam, such as, but not limited to, high energy level electrons or photons.

[0103]

[0133] The backscattered signal 910 may be received by an optical receiver 912 of the ALDA 900. The optical receiver 912 may be located within an optical enclosure and may be configured and operable to receive data in the form of the backscattered signal 910 and estimate the backscattered energy and Doppler shift of the backscattered signal 910. The optical receiver 912 may comprise a photodetector, such as, for example, a photodiode or other optoelectronic device, or a photomultiplier tube. More specifically, the optical receiver 912 may collect the energy comprising the backscattered signal 910 and convert it into an electrical signal. To the extent that the signal may indicate, for example, the intensity and amount of energy in the backscattered signal 910, that energy may be converted into an electrical signal that may comprise or embody data.

[0104]

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

[0105]

[0135] With further attention to the amplifier 914, an embodiment may employ the amplifier 914 to amplify the backscattered signal before it is sent to an analog-to-digital converter (ADC) 916. Amplifying the backscattered signal may improve the signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) of the received signal, ensuring that the received signal can be accurately digitized by the ADC 916. In an embodiment, the backscattered signal may be weak, especially when the lidar is operating over long distances or in adverse conditions. Thus, the amplifier 914 may increase the amplitude of the received signal, i.e., the backscattered signal, making it easier to detect and analyze.

[0106]

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

[0107]

[0137] Continuing to refer to FIG. 9 , note that the ADC 916 is not directly connected to the impulse generator 902. The impulse generator 902 is responsible for controlling the transmission of laser pulses used to scan the environment and measure the velocity of particles in a fluid or gas. Backscattered light from these laser pulses is then detected by a lidar receiver and amplified before being digitized by the ADC 916. In one embodiment, the connection between the ADC 916 and the impulse generator 902 is indirect, an example of which may be made using a lidar control system, an example of which is disclosed at 1006 in FIG. 10 . Among other things, the lidar control system may coordinate the timing and synchronization of laser pulse emissions by the optical transmitter 904, the operation of the lidar optical receiver 912, and the sampling of the ADC 916 to ensure that received signals can be accurately digitized and processed to extract velocity or flow information.

[0108]

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

[0109]

[0139] C.10 ALDA Electrical and Communications Flow

[0140] Turning now to Figure 10, details relating to exemplary electrical / electronic devices and communications are provided according to one exemplary embodiment. In Figure 10, an exemplary control, command, and communication (C3) system 1000 is disclosed.

[0110]

[0141] The C3 system 1000 may include one or more I2C or CAN buses 1002, which in some embodiments may have one or more main controllers and a backbone of as few as two wires. In one embodiment, the two wires may be (1) a serial clock wire and (2) a serial data command wire from / to the bus 1002. The bus 1002 may use controllers that are high-speed or low-speed electronics with simple commands of "start" and "stop" command parameters, in conjunction with or in addition to the ability to write and / or read information, including but not limited to bits or bytes.

[0111]

[0142] Referring more particularly to the exemplary "start" and "stop" commands, in a Doppler-shift based lidar system, these commands may be used to initiate and terminate fluid velocity and / or flow rate measurements, respectively. A "start" command may trigger the lidar system to emit a laser pulse and begin detecting backscattered light, while a "stop" command may signal the lidar system to stop emitting laser pulses and end the measurement.

[0112]

[0143] In one embodiment, a "start" command can initiate a scanning process, an example of which is disclosed herein, in which the lidar system emits laser pulses at a fixed frequency, which can be detected by the lidar system as backscattered light. When the laser pulses reflect off particles in the fluid or gas, a Doppler shift in the backscattered light can be detected and used to calculate the particle's velocity. A "stop" command can be used to end the scanning process and stop the emission of laser pulses. Once the scanning process is complete, the lidar system can perform additional processing on the digitized signal, such as by applying filters or performing spectral analysis on the digitized signal to extract more detailed information about the velocity or flow rate. Generally, the "start" and "stop" commands can be controlled by a lidar control system, which coordinates the operation of various lidar components to ensure accurate and reliable measurements. The lidar control system can also include additional features to further improve measurement accuracy, such as automatic gain control and noise filtering.

[0113]

[0144] Continuing with the example of FIG. 10, having multiple controllers allows individual controllers outside the master controller to be designated as slave controllers / devices. Commands to the slave controllers may come from the master controller. The I2C protocol, an example of which is discussed below, may have communications initiated by the master controller, which may first start with a "start" condition and then read the address of the slave device. Depending on what bits are read from the address byte of the slave device, the master controller may write to another slave device. Once all bytes have been read and / or written, the master controller may generate a "stop" condition, which may end communication to that particular device and free / allow other devices to communicate on the I2C bus. This same protocol may be repeated; instead of ending communication with a "stop" condition, the master controller may repeat the protocol or change mode from write to read.

[0114]

[0145] In one embodiment, bus 1002 may comprise a CAN (Controller Area Network) bus, which is a communication type protocol that may be configured and operable to allow other control devices, such as MCUs or PCBs, to communicate with each other. There may be one single line that can handle all communication throughout the ALDA. The CAN bus may be made up of two different wires. These two wires may correspond to "CAN high" and "CAN low."

[0115]

[0146] More specifically, one embodiment may operate a lidar system using Doppler shift from a CAN bus. In this case, the "CAN high" and "CAN low" lines may be used to transmit control and status information between the lidar system and other devices connected to the CAN bus. In one embodiment, the CAN bus comprises a serial communication protocol used to allow devices to communicate with each other. The protocol uses two wires known as "CAN high" and "CAN low" to transmit differential signals representing digital data. These wires may be twisted together to reduce electromagnetic interference.

[0116]

[0147] In the context of one embodiment using a Doppler-shift based lidar system, the CAN bus can be used to send commands and control signals from a host computer or controller to the lidar system and to send status and measurement data from the lidar system back to the host device. For example, the host device can send a "start" command to the lidar system over the CAN bus to initiate a scanning process and can receive velocity and flow data from the lidar system over the same bus. Similarly, the host device can monitor conditions such as the power supply voltage or temperature of the lidar system over the CAN bus. Thus, when operating a lidar system using Doppler shift from a CAN bus, the "CAN high" and "CAN low" lines can be used to enable communication between the lidar system and other devices connected to the CAN bus, thus allowing control and status information to be transmitted back and forth.

[0117]

[0148] 10 , the C3 system 1000 may include a tier 1 MCU 1004. The tier 1 MCU 1004 may be incorporated to act as a subordinate controller or other control device that communicates with a main controller 1006. The tier 1 MCU 1004, commanded by the main controller 1006, may handle control signals to other components or sensors in the system and communicate them back to the main controller 1006.

[0118]

[0149] The master controller 1006, which may take the form of a LIDAR Doppler master controller, may handle all control and communication to and from the system, i.e., the ALDA. The master controller 1006 may be programmed to be autonomous or externally controlled by commands from an external CPU or host server. The master controller 1006 may also have an on-board processor that allows it to program the ALDA and analyze data collected by the ALDA. Such data may include, but is not limited to, (i) velocity data 1006a (fluid flow velocity may be collected by the ALDA and interpreted by the master controller 1006), (ii) volume data 1006b (once flow velocity is collected, fluid flow volume may be interpreted by the master controller 1006), and (iii) time data 1006c (elapsed time may be recorded by the master controller 1006).

[0119]

[0150] The 3C system 1000 may further include a LOG memory 1008 that may be accessible to the main controller 1006. The LOG memory 1008 may be an on-board memory device that transmits and / or stores data collected by the ALDA. The host 1010 may communicate with the LOG memory 1008 to receive and / or retrieve data from the LOG memory 1008. The host 1010 may be an external device to which data from the ALDA is sent. The host 1010 may comprise, for example, an HMI, a CPU, or a PLC, or other computing component or system.

[0120]

[0151] C.11 Overview of Well Site with VRU

[0152] 11 discloses an exemplary well site 1100 that includes a vapor recovery unit (VRU) discussed below. Briefly, the VRU may capture gases and emissions contained in elements of the well site 1100, such as the well 1002 and tank suite 1004. Except as otherwise noted hereinafter, the well site 1100 may be similar to or identical to the well site 100 in terms of configuration, components, operation, and capabilities of the well site 100. As such, only select aspects of the well site 1100 are discussed in detail below.

[0121]

[0153] As shown, well site 1100 may include one or more wells 1102, a tank set 1104, a water transfer line 1106, a sales line or line to midstream 1108, an LP line 1110, a power and communication station 1112, an HP separator vessel 1114, an HP line 1116, and a knockout 1118. Well site 1100 may additionally include a vapor recovery unit (VRU) 1120, which may be connected to tank set 1104 and HP separator vessel 1114 by an HP line 1116. In one embodiment, VRU 1120 may include a compressor operable to recover emissions or released vapors from hydrocarbons and other fuels at well site 1100. The recovered fuel may be sold or reused.

[0122]

[0154] Finally, the exemplary well site 1100 may include a flare stack 1122. The flare stack 1122 may be the final destination for the gas and / or tank vapor gas. In the flare stack 1122, the gas may be flared or, if the amount of gas is small, vented to the atmosphere. The flare stack 1122 may include two flares, one for the LP tank vapor and one for venting / flaming material received by the HP line 1116.

[0123]

[0155] C.12 Volume of gas into VRU measured by ALDA

[0156] FIG. 12 discloses a system 1200 including an exemplary ALDA, where system 1200 may include a low-pressure or high-pressure effluent system with a VRU. In one embodiment, the ALDA may be incorporated into system 1200. In the example of FIG. 12, the inlet valve to the VRU is open and the inlet valve to the flare stack or effluent stack is closed. The ALDA may measure the volume and velocity of gas or effluent flowing to the VRU. The system may be installed so that the ALDA can communicate electronically with either of the two inlet valves via Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, or a wired connection. The ALDA may measure the large volume of gas or effluent flowing through the system and communicate to close the inlet valve on the flare side, and the VRU inlet valve opens. Further details related to system 1200 are described below.

[0124]

[0157] As shown, system 1200 may include an ALDA 1202. The ALDA 1202 may include or connect to an adapter flange 1204 that may be attached to piping, a fluid enclosure, or any piping, system, or opening that leads to a fluid source from which the ALDA 1202 may collect data. The direction of fluid flow within a portion of system 1200 is indicated at 1206. The flow may include, for example, gas, vapor, emissions, or emissions.

[0125]

[0158] A VRU inlet valve 1208, which may be remotely and / or automatically controlled, controls the flow of materials to the VRU 1210. The VRU inlet valve 1208 allows gases and / or other It may be opened or closed depending on the desired composition of the substance or the volume of flow through the system 1200. Adjustments to the flow rate to the VRU 1210 may be made by partially or fully opening / closing the VRU inlet valve 1208.

[0126]

[0159] Flare section inlet valve 1212, which may also be referred to herein as a "discharge valve," may control the flow of material through line 1214, which may act as an HP line or an LP line depending on the material in line 1214, to a flare stack comprising one or more flare sections 1216. Flare section inlet valve 1212 may open or close partially or completely depending on the desired composition of gases and / or other materials or the volume of flow through the system.

[0127]

[0160] C.13 Volume of gas into VRU measured by ALDA

[0161] 13, there is disclosed a system 1300 that may be similar or identical in configuration, components, operation, and capabilities to system 1200. As such, only select aspects of system 1300 are discussed in detail below.

[0128]

[0162] In particular, FIG. 13 discloses a system 1300 including an exemplary ALDA, where system 1300 may include a low-pressure or high-pressure effluent system with a VRU. In one embodiment, the ALDA may be incorporated into system 1300. In the example of FIG. 13, the inlet valve to the VRU is closed and the flare stack or effluent stack is open. The ALDA may measure the volume and velocity of gas or effluent flowing to the VRU. The system may be installed so that the ALDA can communicate electrically with either of the two inlet valves via Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, or a wired connection. The ALDA may measure the large volume of gas or effluent flowing through the system and communicate the flare-side inlet valve to close and the VRU inlet valve to open. Further details related to system 1300 are described below.

[0129]

[0163] As shown, system 1300 may include an ALDA 1302. The ALDA 1302 may include or connect to an adapter flange 1304 that may be attached to piping, a fluid enclosure, or any piping, system, or opening that leads to a fluid source from which the ALDA 1202 may collect data. The direction of fluid flow within a portion of system 1300 is indicated at 1306. The flow may include, for example, gas, vapor, emissions, or emissions.

[0130]

[0164] VRU inlet valve 1308, which may be remotely and / or automatically controlled, controls the flow of substances to VRU 13010. VRU inlet valve 1308 may open or close depending on the desired composition of gases and / or other substances or the volume of flow through system 1300. Adjustments to the flow rate to VRU 1310 may be made by partially or fully opening / closing VRU inlet valve 1308.

[0131]

[0165] Flare section inlet valve 1312, which may also be referred to herein as a "discharge valve," may control the flow of material through line 1314, which acts as either an HP line or an LP line depending on the material in line 1314, to a flare stack comprising one or more flare sections 1316. Flare section inlet valve 1314 may be partially open or completely open depending on the desired composition of gases and / or other materials or the volume of flow through the system.

[0132]

[0166] D. Exemplary Methods

[0167] 14, an exemplary method according to one embodiment of the present invention is shown at 1400. The exemplary method 1400 may be performed by an embodiment of an ALDA. In one embodiment, the method 1400 may be performed by the ALDA while the ALDA is connected to a piping system and in fluid communication with a portion of the piping system. may be configured and positioned to perform the method 1400 with respect to the flow of fluid within the piping system.

[0133]

[0168] The exemplary method 1400 may be performed when an ALDA lidar device transmits 1402 an optical signal with / against the flow of fluid and / or the volume of fluid present in a fluid conduit or other component holding the fluid. The optical signal's impact with the fluid may result in a backscattered signal being generated and received 1404 by the ALDA. A Doppler shift between the transmitted signal and the backscattered signal may then be determined 1406. The Doppler shift may then be used to determine 1408 one or more fluid parameters, examples of which are disclosed herein, including fluid flow rate, fluid volume, fluid density, and fluid specific gravity.

[0134]

[0169] E. Exemplary Computing Devices and Associated Media

[0170] The embodiments disclosed herein (including those in Appendix A hereto) may involve the use of a special purpose or general purpose computer, including various computer hardware or software modules discussed in more detail below. The computer may include a processor and a computer storage medium bearing instructions that, when executed by and / or performed by the processor, perform any one or more of the methods disclosed herein, or any portion of any of the methods disclosed.

[0135]

[0171] As indicated above, embodiments within the scope of the present invention may also include computer storage media, which are physical media that carry or have computer-executable instructions or data structures stored thereon. Such computer storage media may be any available physical media that can be accessed by a general-purpose or special-purpose computer.

[0136]

[0172] By way of example and not limitation, such computer storage media may comprise hardware storage media such as solid-state disks / devices (SSDs), RAM, ROM, EEPROM, CD-ROM, flash memory, phase-change memory ("PCM"), or other optical disk storage, magnetic disk storage, or other magnetic storage devices, or any other hardware storage device that can be used to store program code in the form of computer-executable instructions or data structures, which can be accessed and executed by a general-purpose or special-purpose computer system to perform the disclosed functions of the present invention. Combinations of the above should also be included within the scope of computer storage media. Such media are also examples of non-transitory storage media, which also encompass cloud-type storage systems and structures, although the scope of the present invention is not limited to these example non-transitory storage media.

[0137]

[0173] Computer-executable instructions comprise, for example, instructions and data that, when executed, cause a general-purpose computer, special-purpose computer, or special-purpose processing device to perform a certain function or group of functions. As such, some embodiments of the present invention may be downloadable into one or more systems or devices, for example, from a website, mesh topology, or other source. Similarly, the scope of the present invention encompasses any hardware system or device that comprises an instance of an application comprising the disclosed executable instructions.

[0138]

[0174] Although the subject matter has been described in language specific to structural features and / or methodological acts, it should be understood that the subject matter defined in the appended claims is not necessarily limited to the specific features or acts described above. Rather, the specific features disclosed herein The following description and acts are disclosed as exemplary forms of implementing the claims.

[0139]

[0175] As used herein, the terms "module" or "component" may refer to a software object or routine executing on a computing system. The different components, modules, engines, and services described herein may be implemented as objects or processes executing on a computing system, for example, as separate threads. While the systems and methods described herein may be implemented in software, implementation in hardware or a combination of software and hardware is also possible and contemplated. In this disclosure, a "computing entity" may be any computing system as defined previously herein, or any module or combination of modules executing on a computing system.

[0140]

[0176] In at least some instances, a hardware processor is provided that is operable to execute executable instructions to perform methods or steps, such as those disclosed herein, which may or may not include other hardware elements, such as those of a computing device or system disclosed herein.

[0141]

[0177] In terms of the computing environment, embodiments of the present invention may be implemented in either a client-server environment, a networked environment, or a local environment, or any other suitable environment. Suitable operating environments for at least some embodiments of the present invention include cloud computing environments in which one or more of the clients, servers, or other machines may reside and operate in the cloud environment.

[0142]

[0178] Any one or more of the entities disclosed or implied in Figures 1-13 and / or elsewhere herein may take the form of, include, be implemented in, or be hosted by a physical computing device. Some or all of the physical computing devices may comprise elements of an axial lidar Doppler analyzer (ALDA). Similarly, an ALDA may comprise a physical computing device discussed herein.

[0143]

[0179] Such a physical computing device may include memory, which may include one, some, or all of: random access memory (RAM), non-volatile random access memory (NVRAM), read-only memory (ROM), and persistent memory, one or more hardware processors, non-transitory storage media, UI (user interface) devices / ports, and data storage devices. One or more of the memory components of the physical computing device may take the form of solid-state device (SSD) storage. Similarly, one or more applications are provided, comprising instructions executable by one or more hardware processors to perform any, or a portion thereof, of the operations disclosed herein. Such executable instructions may take various forms, including, for example, instructions executable to perform and / or cause the performance of any method, process, or portion thereof, disclosed herein.

[0144]

[0180] F. Further Aspects and Exemplary Embodiments

[0181] Below are some further exemplary aspects and embodiments of the present invention, which are presented for illustrative purposes only and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention in any way.

[0145]

[0182] Embodiment 1 A lidar device including a transmitter operable to transmit a signal and a receiver operable to receive a backscattered signal comprising a portion of the signal, and a processor operable to determine a Doppler shift between the signal and the backscattered signal and use the Doppler shift to determine a volume of fluid through which the signal is directed and from which the backscattered signal is received. a measuring device comprising:

[0146]

[0183] Embodiment 2. The measurement device of embodiment 1, wherein the transmitter comprises a laser and the receiver comprises a photodiode.

[0184] Embodiment 3. The measurement device of embodiment 1 or 2, wherein the measurement system further comprises a housing in which the transmitter and receiver are positioned, the housing configured to couple with an element of the piping system.

[0147]

[0185] Embodiment 4. A measuring device according to any one of embodiments 1 to 3, wherein the measuring system further comprises a window configured and arranged to be in contact with the fluid when the measuring device is connected to a fluid system holding the fluid.

[0148]

[0186] Embodiment 5. A measuring device according to any of embodiments 1 to 4, wherein the processor is operable to determine the volume continuously and / or intermittently.

[0187] Embodiment 6 A measurement device according to any one of embodiments 1 to 5, operable to be in electrical communication with a device operable to manage fluid flow in a piping system.

[0149]

[0188] Embodiment 7. A measuring device according to any one of embodiments 1 to 6, further comprising a reflector constructed and arranged to direct the signal transmitted by the transmitter.

[0189] Embodiment 8. A measuring device according to any of embodiments 1 to 7, comprising a connection operable to receive power, control signals and communications from one or more other devices.

[0150]

[0190] Embodiment 9: A discharge system comprising the measuring device according to any one of embodiments 1 to 8.

[0191] Embodiment 10. A method comprising the steps of transmitting a signal into a fluid in a piping system using a lidar device, receiving a backscattered signal generated as a result of the signal impinging on the fluid, detecting a Doppler shift between the signal and the backscattered signal, and using the Doppler shift to determine the volume of the fluid.

[0151]

[0192] Embodiment 11. The method of embodiment 10, wherein the fluid comprises any one or more of particulates, one or more gases, or one or more liquids.

[0193] Embodiment 12. The method of embodiment 10 or 11, wherein the fluid comprises one or more hydrocarbons and / or one or more hydrocarbon combustion products.

[0152]

[0194] Embodiment 13. The method of any one of embodiments 10-12, wherein the volume is determined continuously.

[0195] Embodiment 14. The method of any one of embodiments 10-13, wherein the volume is determined intermittently.

[0153]

[0196] Embodiment 15. The method of any one of embodiments 10 to 14, wherein the fluid is flowing when the Doppler shift is detected.

[0197] Embodiment 16. The method of any of embodiments 10-15, wherein the signal is transmitted axially within a piping system element containing a fluid.

[0154]

[0198] Embodiment 17. A method according to any of embodiments 10 to 16, wherein the detecting step is carried out either by direct detection through the use of an interferometer operable to optically analyze the backscattered signal, or by a combination of backscattered analysis and the use of oscillating laser radiation to generate a detector output signal.

[0155]

[0199] Embodiment 18. A method according to any of embodiments 10 to 17, wherein the signal is transmitted from one side of the pipe to another side of the pipe at an angle measured relative to the axis of the pipe in the range of about 10 degrees to about 20 degrees.

[0156]

[0200]

[0033] Embodiment 19. The method of embodiment 18, wherein the transmitted signal is directed and / or redirected using mirrors or prisms.

[0201] Embodiment 20. A measuring device operable to carry out the method according to any one of embodiments 10 to 19.

[0157]

[0202] Embodiment 21 A non-transitory storage medium bearing instructions executable by one or more hardware processors to perform and / or cause the performance of part or all of the method of any of embodiments 10-19.

[0158]

[0203] The present invention may be embodied in other specific forms without departing from the spirit or essential characteristics thereof. The described embodiments are to be considered in all respects only as illustrative and not restrictive. The scope of the present invention is, therefore, indicated by the appended claims rather than by the foregoing description. All changes that come within the meaning and range of equivalents of the claims are to be embraced within their scope.

Claims

1. a Doppler lidar device including an optical transmitter operable to transmit a signal, and further including an optical receiver operable to receive a backscattered signal comprising a portion of the signal; determining a Doppler shift between the signal and the backscattered signal; Using the Doppler shift to determine the volumetric flow rate of the fluid from which the signal was directed and from which the backscattered signal was received. and a processor that can operate like this A measuring device comprising:

2. The measuring device of claim 1 , wherein the transmitter comprises a laser and the receiver comprises a photodiode.

3. The measurement device of claim 1 , wherein the measurement system further comprises a housing in which the transmitter and the receiver are positioned, the housing configured to couple with an element of a piping system.

4. The measurement device of claim 1 , wherein the measurement system further comprises a window constructed and arranged to contact the fluid when the measurement device is connected to a fluid system holding the fluid.

5. The measurement device of claim 1 , wherein the processor is operable to determine the volumetric flow rate continuously and / or intermittently.

6. The measurement device of claim 1 , operable to be in electrical communication with a device operable to manage fluid flow in a piping system.

7. The measurement device of claim 1 , further comprising a reflector constructed and arranged to direct the signal and / or the backscattered signal.

8. The measuring device of claim 1 , comprising a connection operable to receive power, control signals, and communications from one or more other devices.

9. 10. The measurement device of claim 1, operable when installed in a piping system to transmit the signal with or against the direction of fluid flow in the piping system.

10. The measuring device of claim 1 , operable to measure the volume of the fluid.

11. The measurement device of claim 1 , wherein the fluid comprises any one or more of a gas, a liquid, and a solid.

12. 10. The measurement device of claim 1, operable to determine values ​​of parameters of the fluid, the parameters including a concentration of a substance in the fluid, a specific gravity of a substance in the fluid, and a density of the fluid.

13. The measurement device of claim 1 , wherein the measurement device is a component of a well site drainage system.

14. The measurement device of claim 1 , wherein a parameter of the backscattered signal is a function of a property of the fluid.

15. The measurement device of claim 1 , further comprising a prism or reflector operable to direct the signal and / or the backscattered signal.

16. transmitting a signal using a lidar device to a fluid flow in a piping system; receiving a backscattered signal generated as a result of the signal impinging on the fluid; detecting a Doppler shift between the signal and the backscattered signal; using the Doppler shift to determine the velocity and / or volumetric flow rate of the fluid; A method comprising:

17. The method of claim 16 , wherein the fluid comprises any one or more of particulates, one or more gases, or one or more liquids.

18. The method of claim 16 , wherein the fluid comprises one or more hydrocarbons and / or one or more hydrocarbon combustion products.

19. The method of claim 16 , wherein the signal is transmitted axially to a piping system element through which the fluid is flowing.

20. The method of claim 16 , wherein a frequency analysis function is used to perform the detecting step.

21. 17. The method of claim 16, wherein the detecting step is performed either by direct detection through the use of an interferometer operable to optically analyze the backscattered signal, or by a combination of backscattered analysis and the use of oscillating laser radiation to generate a detector output signal.

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