Shock pulse generator for acoustic search of underground pipelines

Abstract

FIELD: pipelines.SUBSTANCE: invention is used for searching and tracing underground pipelines, including non-metallic ones. The shock pulse generator comprises a housing with a mount to a support structure, which is attached to a pipeline, an electromagnetic coil with a movable ferromagnetic core, a striker mounted on an elastic suspension, a power source and a microprocessor control unit connected to a pulse duration generator, a keyboard and an indicator. The body with the coil and core is located at an angle of 30-60° to the longitudinal axis of the pipeline, and the direction of the impact is oriented at an angle to its wall, which ensures the excitation of shear and tangential acoustic waves.EFFECT: increasing the directivity and amplitude of the acoustic signal, increasing the range and accuracy of route detection, and reducing the influence of external noise.4 cl, 3 dwg

Description

[0001] Technical field

[0002] The invention relates to non-destructive testing, technical diagnostics, and engineering surveys, specifically to methods and devices for locating underground pipelines located outside the direct line of sight, primarily underground. The device can be used in construction, reconstruction, major repairs, and the operation of utility networks in the municipal, industrial, and energy sectors.

[0003] The device is particularly useful in situations where access to the pipeline system is limited, where design documentation is unavailable, and when inspecting non-metallic pipelines that traditional electromagnetic pipeline tracing methods cannot detect. These include pipes made of polyethylene (HDPE), polypropylene, PVC, fiberglass, and other dielectric materials that do not conduct electricity and do not generate an electromagnetic field.

[0004] Current search methods based on the introduction of probes, conductive cables, or electrolytes into pipelines are either invasive or of limited use in operating utility systems, especially when transporting pressurized liquids. The use of ground-penetrating radar (GPR) methods requires expensive equipment and trained personnel.

[0005] In this context, devices operating on the principle of exciting acoustic vibrations in a pipe become the most universal and cost-effective means of detecting underground utilities.

[0006] The invention to which this description relates can be used:

[0007] • when searching for and tracing underground water supply, sewerage, drainage and heating networks;

[0008] • in urban conditions - with high building density and saturation of underground space;

[0009] • at industrial facilities - to control process pipelines;

[0010] • during emergency and restoration work, when it is necessary to urgently determine the location of a pipe hidden underground;

[0011] • in geophysical and engineering surveys - for constructing an underground communications map before construction.

[0012] The proposed device allows for the precise localization of a pipeline route and determination of its location without opening the ground, thanks to the generation of directional acoustic pulses propagating along the pipe and transmitted into the surrounding soil and their reception from the soil surface by acoustic sensors.

[0013] Technology Level

[0014] There are numerous solutions for detecting and tracing underground pipelines, both metallic and non-metallic. These solutions employ various physical principles: electromagnetic methods, acoustic methods (directly or through a liquid / gas medium inside the pipe), ground-penetrating radar methods (GPR) with time delay, phase analysis, and others. However, many of these have limited versatility, insufficient signal directionality, or significant installation or operational limitations.

[0015] One of the best-known and related technical solutions is the "Shock Pulse Generator" for locating underground pipelines (patent for utility model No. 54214). It comprises a striker in the form of a ferromagnetic core placed in a current-carrying coil, a cylindrical housing forming a magnetic circuit, a belt for attaching the housing to the pipeline, and an electrical circuit regulating the frequency of the coil's supply current. The generator is distinguished by the fact that a striker, independent of the core, is embedded in the cylinder's bottom and attached to the bottom via an elastic suspension. The electrical circuit consists of a series-connected impact force regulator, a multivibrator, and a pulse duration generator supplied to the coil. This device creates acoustic excitation of the pipe wall through mechanical impact, resulting in the generation of sound and mechanical vibrations transmitted into the ground and detectable from the surface.

[0016] The main disadvantages of the prototype are

[0017] 1. Percussion mechanism orientation perpendicular to the pipe axis: The percussion mechanism and coil are positioned so that the pulse direction is predominantly perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the pipeline. This reduces the efficiency of excitation of transverse or shear waves in the pipe wall, leading to a large number of wave reflections from opposite walls and a sharp attenuation of the acoustic signal. As a result, sensitivity and detection range are reduced.

[0018] 2. Low signal directivity: Since the impact is oriented across the pipe rather than along a tangential or shear trajectory to the wall, some of the acoustic energy is lost or dissipated into the pipe and soil near the impact. This leads to a reduced signal level at the surface, a deteriorating signal-to-noise ratio, and a limited maximum detection range.

[0019] 3. Sensitivity to installation conditions and external noise: Installation in a process well, the presence of vibrations, flow noise, and other structures near the pipe degrade the signal quality, since the excitation and its propagation depend on the conditions of direct contact and installation.

[0020] Overall, the Prototype demonstrates a good level of technological maturity and operational practicality, but has obvious limitations in versatility and focus - which sets the motivation for developing an improved solution.

[0021] The "Remote Acoustic Pipeline Monitoring" solution, US 20050210960 A1, is known. This solution describes a device and method in which an acoustic source is placed in a pipe or pipeline network, and one or more acoustic or pressure sensors are located at different points along the pipe. The device includes means for recording and displaying the signal, as well as for comparing it with a reference signal. Two sensors are positioned to determine the direction of acoustic signal propagation. The main advantages include remote operation, operation without the need for manual inspection of each section of the pipe, data processing to reduce the volume of information (rejecting signals not directed in the desired direction), and reduced analysis complexity.Disadvantages: Requires placement of the source and individual sensors along or within the pipeline, which can be difficult to install; primarily designed for detecting blockages or leaks, not for universal tracing of long sections of arbitrary orientation; does not involve active mechanical impact on the pipe wall – limited to acoustic excitation via flow or pulses.

[0022] A device known as "Acoustic System for Determining the Location and Burial Depth of Underground Pipes" (patent No. US 6,003,376 A) is described. It is a method and device for measuring the horizontal position and / or depth of an underground pipeline, including non-metallic and non-conductive pipes. The method is based on transmitting a continuous acoustic wave (CW) along the pipe, receiving the signal on the surface at three or more points, determining the relative phase and / or amplitude, and calculating the position and depth of the pipe. Advantages: enables the detection of pipes that are not electrically conductive and unsuitable for electromagnetic tracing; provides information on the burial depth; uses a phase analysis technique, which improves accuracy.Disadvantages: requires an array of receivers on the surface, is difficult to install, the method's orientation relative to the pipe is often fixed (acoustic emitters are located across the pipe), does not include an active impact mechanism or high-efficiency transmission of excitation energy into the pipe through the wall. Also, the method is designed more for positioning than for active tracing of long sections with minimal installation.

[0023] Combining the above prototypes, we can conclude that there are a significant number of technical solutions aimed at detecting underground pipelines, with varying physical principles and implementation levels. However, none of them fully combines all the following characteristics: active, directional excitation of acoustic vibrations in the pipe wall (shear / tangential waves), high signal directivity, minimal installation efforts, and the ability to trace long pipeline sections with high accuracy and minimal external noise.

[0024] In particular, Prototype Patent No. 54214, although the closest in architecture to the proposed invention, has the following limitations, described previously: the mechanism is oriented only transversely to the pipe axis, the lack of optimal waveform selection for maximum transmission into the pipe wall, limited installation flexibility, and sensitivity to external conditions. Other prototypes, although complementing the range of known solutions, also do not provide a complete solution to the problem of active universal routing.

[0025] Thus, despite the wide level of technology, the technical challenge remains: to develop a device and methodology that can increase the efficiency of excitation of acoustic vibrations, improve the direction of signal transmission into the pipeline wall, reduce installation and operational restrictions, and increase the accuracy and range of tracing, especially for non-metallic pipes and areas with limited access.

[0026] Disclosure of the essence of the invention

[0027] The present invention relates to the field of technical diagnostics of utility networks and, in particular, to devices for locating and tracing underground pipelines using an acoustic excitation method. It addresses the shortcomings of known technical solutions, in particular, a device with a transversely oriented impact mechanism (Patent No. 54214), and is intended to improve the efficiency of acoustic energy transfer into the pipeline wall, increase the range and accuracy of route detection, and expand the application range, including complex installation and geometric configurations of pipelines.

[0028] The technical problem solved by the invention consists in developing a device that ensures:

[0029] • more efficient transmission of the acoustic signal into the pipe;

[0030] • increasing the directivity and amplitude of the acoustic signal;

[0031] • resistance to external noise;

[0032] • and versatility for various types of pipelines, including non-metallic ones. To achieve this goal, the device implements a fundamental

[0033] Design difference: the striking mechanism (a coil with a ferromagnetic core) is positioned at an angle to the longitudinal axis of the pipeline, preferably in the range of 30° to 60°. The impact of the core on the striker is oriented at an angle to the inner surface of the pipe, which generates shear (tangential) vibrations that are transmitted significantly more effectively through the pipe wall material and into the surrounding soil.

[0034] As a result of this inclined placement:

[0035] • waves with a pronounced horizontal direction of propagation are created, which increases the sensitivity of acoustic sensors on the surface;

[0036] • shear waves have lower energy losses when passing through the pipe wall and more distinct propagation along the route;

[0037] • the pipe works as a directional resonator, enhancing the excitation effect in a given direction;

[0038] • The signal-to-noise ratio increases when recording on the surface, especially in urban or industrial background conditions.

[0039] Structurally, the shock pulse generator includes:

[0040] • one-piece body, allowing installation on the external or internal part of the pipe;

[0041] • a coil with current, mounted in a housing along an inclined axis, in which a shock ferromagnetic core moves;

[0042] • a striker mounted on an elastic suspension or damper, interacting with the supporting structure;

[0043] • a supporting structure that receives the impact from the striker and transmits it to the wall of the pipeline;

[0044] • electronic unit including: o power source;

[0045] ○ microcontroller control unit;

[0046] ○ indicator;

[0047] ○ control keyboard;

[0048] ○ pulse width generator for controlling the coil excitation time;

[0049] ○ coil.

[0050] The device is designed for installation in process manholes directly on the pipeline and can be secured using chains, clamps, or special quick-release supports. Its design allows for use on both straight and curved pipe sections, including elbows, bends, and branch points. The tilting position of the striking mechanism allows for the ability to adjust the striking direction depending on the location and orientation of the pipe section.

[0051] Combined with a receiving module located on the ground surface and including an acoustic sensor, amplifier, signal converter and indicator, the device allows the operator to accurately locate the pipe, even in dense background and cross-communication conditions.

[0052] Thus, the proposed invention allows:

[0053] • increase the efficiency of excitation of acoustic vibrations in the pipeline;

[0054] • increase the range and accuracy of route detection;

[0055] • improve signal directionality;

[0056] • improve safety when working with fragile materials (asbestos-cement pipes, corroded metal pipes with thinned walls);

[0057] • ensure universal application regardless of the material, diameter and geometry of the pipes;

[0058] • Simplify installation and operation in the field.

[0059] Taking these features together, the proposed technical solution provides a new level of functionality compared to known devices and can be successfully applied in the inspection of underground utility networks for various purposes.

[0060] Brief description of drawings

[0061] Fig. 1 - General view of the device assembled with the pipeline.

[0062] Fig. 2 - Longitudinal section of the device.

[0063] Fig. 3 - Electrical control circuit.

[0064] Designations: body (1), fastening belt or chain (2), current coil (coil) (3), inside which a movable ferromagnetic core (4) is installed, striker (5), elastic suspension (6), microprocessor control unit (MCU) (7), power supply (PS) (8), control keyboard (KU) (9), support structure for installation on a pipeline (SS) (10), pulse generator (PG) (11), indicator (INDICATOR) (12), damper (13).

[0065] Implementation of the invention

[0066] The proposed shock pulse generator for locating underground pipelines (hereinafter referred to as the device) is designed to ensure the most efficient excitation of acoustic vibrations in the pipeline wall, the transmission of these vibrations into the surrounding soil, and their recording on the surface. Below is a detailed description of its design, components, component interconnections, installation options, and operation methods that ensure the technical results are achieved.

[0067] The device includes the following main components: a housing (1), a fastening belt or chain (2), a coil with current (coil) (3), inside which a movable ferromagnetic core (4) is installed, a striker (5), an elastic suspension (6), a microprocessor control unit (MCU) (7), a power supply (PS) (8), a control keyboard (KU) (9), a support structure for installation on a pipeline (SS) (10), a pulse generator (PG) (11), an indicator (12), a damper (13).

[0068] The body (1) is cylindrical or other shaped to fit the outer surface of the pipe. It is made of a ferromagnetic material or with a ferromagnetic insert that forms a magnetic circuit together with the core and coil.

[0069] A fastening belt or chain (2) is used to secure the housing to the pipe. The chain can have a tensioner with a wing screw, a clamp, or a strap with a quick-release mechanism. This ensures tight contact between the housing and the pipe and secures the device.

[0070] The current-carrying coil (3) has a winding made of a conductor (copper or other suitable material) and is assembled on a frame rigidly mounted within the housing. Inside the coil is a ferromagnetic core (4), capable of reciprocating or arcing motion when a current pulse is applied. The core is mounted on an elastic suspension (6)—a spring, shock absorber, or elastic element—that ensures the core returns to its original position and absorbs impact energy without damaging the structure.

[0071] The striker (5) is located at the bottom and is made of a material that is resistant to repeated impacts (for example, hardened steel or alloy with a damper).

[0072] The microprocessor control unit (7) turns on the impact force regulator (changes the amplitude of the current supplied to the coil), and forms the impact frequency.

[0073] The power source (8) can be a 12V battery (or other voltage depending on the design) or an external power source. The keyboard (9) allows for input of pulse frequency and duration parameters.

[0074] The support structure (10) is a platform or mounting element that ensures the device is installed on the pipe in the desired position inside the process well. The pulse width former (11) controls the current in the coil (6)). The indicator (12) displays information on the display.

[0075] A key design feature is that the coil (3) and core (4) are positioned at an angle to the longitudinal axis of the pipeline. The angle of inclination is preferably in the range of 30° to 60°. The striker (5) strikes at an angle to the outer surface of the pipe. This inclined placement creates predominantly shear and tangential waves in the pipe wall, rather than solely longitudinal waves as in traditional designs. The inclination allows the core to accelerate along an inclined trajectory and strike the pipe wall at an angle, which reduces damping within the metal (or plastic) of the pipe and increases the efficiency of acoustic energy transfer into the soil. The housing may include a protractor or adjustment mechanism to adapt the installation angle to a specific pipe diameter or material.

[0076] The device can be installed externally – on the outer surface of the pipeline. To install, the housing (1) is secured with a chain (2) around the pipe, and the tensioner is secured with a wing screw, ensuring reliable contact. A sealing gasket can be placed between the support structure and the pipe to eliminate air gaps and improve vibration transmission. The contact zone between the striker (5) and the pipe is ensured by the support structure (10).

[0077] The installation allows for use on straight pipe sections, as well as on sections with bends and offsets, as the tilting hammer mechanism allows for adjustments to changes in the pipe's direction. Mounting elements can include an angle adjuster and a flexible support frame, allowing the device to be installed on an upward or downward inclined pipe.

[0078] After installation, connect the device to a power source (8), turn on the microprocessor control unit (7), and set the operating mode: set the current amplitude, shock frequency (e.g., 1-2 shocks per minute), and pulse duration (e.g., 200-500 ms). The device can operate autonomously.

[0079] After the control signal is sent from the keyboard (9), the cycle begins: the microprocessor control unit (7) turns on the impact force regulator (changing the amplitude of the current supplied to the coil), forms the impact frequency, sends a signal to the pulse duration former (11), which forms an electrical pulse supplied to the coil (3). Under the action of the current in the coil, the core (4) moves along an inclined trajectory, gains acceleration and strikes the striker (5). The striker, through the support structure (10), transfers the impact load to the pipe wall (14). The return of the striker is cushioned by the damper (13). The impact generates an acoustic wave in the pipe wall, which continues to propagate along the pipe and passes into the ground. At the same time, due to the inclined trajectory, part of the energy is converted into a shear wave, which improves the propagation and strength of the signal. Acoustic reception by the module on the surface records the acoustic signal: a sound or vibration sensor responds to mechanical vibrations of the soil.The amplifier amplifies the signal, filters eliminate noise, and an indicator displays the signal level. Maximum response is recorded when the sensor is positioned above the pipe axis and in a route section with minimal interference. The device allows for serial installation of several units (for example, up to 10) at different route sections or different pipeline branches, synchronized in time. This ensures rapid coverage of a route length of up to 5 km (or more depending on the configuration). Data from each device can be transmitted to a hardware and software system for correlation analysis and leak or route mapping.

[0080] Execution options and modifications.

[0081] 1. Adjustable tilt angle. In one version, the coil (3) and core (4) are mounted in a rotating module, allowing the tilt angle to be adjusted from 0° to 90°, allowing the device to be adapted to various pipe diameters, materials, and installation conditions. The angle lock is set with a screw or spring clamp.

[0082] 2. Remote control and monitoring. The microprocessor control unit (7) can be equipped with a wireless data transmission interface, allowing the operator to monitor and change operating modes remotely, as well as transmit signals to a cloud system for analysis.

[0083] 3. Multi-point installation. Several devices are installed along a route, forming a sequential group, linked by time or network, allowing for signal correlation and determination of the direction and distance to a leak or defect.

[0084] 4. Adaptation to pipeline type. For plastic or composite pipes, special pads can be used to improve impact transmission and prevent damage to the pipe. Adapters for insulated or lined pipes are also available.

[0085] Materials and geometric parameters

[0086] The housing (1) is made of steel or aluminum alloy with a magnetic insert to strengthen the magnetic circuit. The coil (3) is made of copper wire with insulation (e.g. enamel). The core (4) is made of a ferromagnetic material (e.g. soft iron, which is a rod with a drive mechanism). The elastic suspension (6) is made of a stainless steel spring or shock-absorbing polymer. The striker (5) is a steel or carbide tip with a contact pad. The housing diameter can vary from 100 mm to 400 mm, depending on the pipeline diameter. The coil volume and the core length are selected to ensure maximum impact energy. The impact frequency is controlled, but in typical mode it is 1-2 impacts per minute.

[0087] The core mounting angle is preferably 45°, but can be from 30° to 60° depending on requirements. The basic tracing distance from a single device is up to 500-1000 m, with multiple devices installed, up to 5 km. The device is powered by a 12 V battery, with a pulse current of tens of amperes in the coil; the pulse generator provides a pulse duration of 200-500 ms. Control is implemented using a microcontroller, allowing for adjustable strength / frequency / duration parameters.

[0088] Example of operating mode.

[0089] The device is installed on a 300 mm diameter pipeline section, outdoor installation. The chain (2) is taut, the housing (1) is pressed against the support structure (10), which tightly encloses the pipe. The inclination angle is set to 30°. After turning on the power, the microprocessor control unit (7) generates a pulse: the coil (3) receives a current of 25 A for 300 ms. The core (4) moves along an inclined trajectory and strikes the striker (5) on the support structure (10), which transfers the shock load to the pipe wall (14). An impact pulse is generated, propagating as a longitudinal and shear wave. The excitation propagates along the pipe and is transmitted to the ground, where it is received by a sensor on the surface. The operator observes the indicator, moves the sensor across the route until the maximum signal is obtained, marks the point of the pipeline passage, and transmits the data to the analysis system.If necessary, other devices are installed every 500 m, the operation is synchronized, the maximum signal level allows to determine the location of the pipeline.

[0090] Possible modifications.

[0091] - The device can be equipped with GPS module and time synchronization for distributed installation on a long route.

[0092] - The microprocessor control unit (7) can be expanded with a wireless data transmission system (Bluetooth, LoRa, NB-IoT) for remote monitoring.

[0093] - The coil (3) and core (4) can be modular, which allows them to be replaced according to the pipe diameter or material (metal / HDPE / PVC) - replaceable module.

[0094] - The support structure (10) can be made with different angles of inclination to improve the transmission of impact into the pipeline.

[0095] - The support structure (10) can be made with different pads to improve the impact transmission to different pipe wall materials.

[0096] - It is possible to install shock absorbers (6) with adjustable stiffness, which allows you to adapt the design to soil conditions, vibrations or pipe slopes.

[0097] The operating principle of the shock pulse generator for locating underground pipelines is based on targeted mechanical excitation of the pipeline wall using pulsed electromagnetic action, resulting in the generation of acoustic vibrations within the pipe. These vibrations propagate both along the pipe and into the surrounding soil, where they can be detected by ground-based receivers. A distinctive feature of the invention is the inclined placement of the shock mechanism, ensuring a targeted and effective waveform transmission, particularly for shear and tangential components.

[0098] After installing the device on the pipeline, the operator turns on the electronic unit, which begins generating electrical pulses sent to the coil. The device operates cyclically, and each cycle consists of several phases, which can be described as follows:

[0099] 1. Initializing and starting the device

[0100] Before the main operating cycle begins, the device is connected to a power source (either via an external connector or independently from the built-in battery). The electronic control unit is activated, and its components enter standby mode for the start command. The operator can set operating parameters: impact frequency, current strength (determining impact power), and pulse duration. In the wireless version, parameters can be set remotely.

[0101] Once activated, the pulse generator generates a pulse train at a set frequency, typically between 0.5 and 2 beats per minute. This frequency is selected to ensure sufficient response amplitude and minimize interference from external noise.

[0102] 2. Formation and delivery of electrical impulse

[0103] Based on the signal from the microprocessor control unit (7), the pulse generator (11) sets a specific time interval during which current will be supplied to the coil. Voltage is applied to the coil located inside the housing, creating an intense electromagnetic field. This field acts on the movable ferromagnetic core (4) located inside the coil, causing it to rapidly move forward along the inclined axis.

[0104] Due to the inclined position of the coil relative to the axis of the pipe, the core does not simply move along the body, but gains momentum along an inclined trajectory, which gives the impact both a longitudinal and a tangential (shear) component.

[0105] 3. Mechanical impact on the striker

[0106] Upon reaching the end of the coil, the core strikes the striker (5) at high speed, located in the working section of the housing. The striker, in turn, rests on the support structure (10), which makes direct contact with the outer surface of the pipe (14).

[0107] The striker's impact mechanically excites the pipeline wall, generating acoustic vibrations that propagate through the pipe material and into the surrounding environment—primarily the soil. Since the impact is directed at an angle to the pipe axis, it generates not only longitudinal waves but also shear waves, which propagate more effectively in a heterogeneous medium like soil and are better detected by acoustic sensors on the surface.

[0108] 4. Propagation of acoustic waves

[0109] Acoustic vibrations generated by the impact propagate:

[0110] • along the pipeline material along its axis - this is a longitudinal wave;

[0111] • across the pipe wall - shear and transverse waves are excited;

[0112] • into the ground - through the surface of the pipe.

[0113] The distinctive feature of an oblique strike is that the waves propagate in a distinctly horizontal direction, allowing for increased pipeline tracing distances with the same strike force. Furthermore, the transmitted energy is more evenly distributed, and the signals take the form of high-amplitude pulses with good temporal localization.

[0114] 5. Signal reception and analysis

[0115] On the surface, along the proposed pipeline route, receiving modules (one or more) are installed, each of which contains:

[0116] • acoustic or vibration sensor (eg piezoelectric transducer);

[0117] • signal preamplifier;

[0118] • frequency interference filters and selection amplifier;

[0119] • microcontroller for signal processing;

[0120] • indicator (pointer, LED, digital) or signal transmission unit to the central analysis system.

[0121] The receiving module captures acoustic waves propagating from the impact site. When the sensor is positioned above the pipe, particularly in the section where the impact was transmitted most effectively, the signal amplitude reaches its peak. The operator, moving the sensor across the pipeline, monitors changes in signal level and finds the maximum corresponding to the pipe's position. When using multiple sensors, correlation, delay calculation, phase analysis, and other spatial localization algorithms can be applied.

[0122] 6. Cycle repetition and data recording

[0123] After completing one cycle, the device returns to its initial position. The core returns to its initial position due to the action of the elastic suspension (6). The spring system or damper (13) eliminates residual vibrations, and the mechanism is ready for the next pulse. The cycle then repeats, with the same or updated frequency and impact parameters.

[0124] The device can operate autonomously for long periods of time, delivering multiple sequential strikes. If necessary, it can be reprogrammed or synchronized with other devices for coordinated excitation of the line (for example, to cover several kilometers of network).

[0125] The device's operating principle is based on the sequential generation of a powerful, directed mechanical pulse transmitted from the core through the striker into the pipe wall at an angle. This generates waves that effectively propagate in the ground, ensuring highly accurate pipe location. The unique angled placement of the striker mechanism and its adaptive design significantly increase the tracing range and detection reliability, especially in complex pipeline sections and when inspecting non-metallic pipelines.

[0126] Description of advantages compared to analogues

[0127] The proposed invention has a number of significant technical advantages compared to known analogues, including both the device that is closest in technical essence (patent No. 54214), and other solutions described in patents US 20050210960 A1 and US 6003376 A.

[0128] 1. Increased acoustic signal propagation efficiency. One of the key features of this invention is the inclined position of the impact mechanism relative to the longitudinal axis of the pipeline. In most known analogues, including patent No. 54214, the impact direction is oriented along the pipe axis, which results in the preferential generation of longitudinal waves, which propagate less effectively into the surrounding soil.

[0129] In the invention, the impact direction is selected to generate shear and tangential waves, which have better ground penetration and provide a higher signal amplitude at the receiving end. This is especially important when tracing non-metallic pipes (HDPE, PVC, etc.), which do not conduct electricity and poorly transmit longitudinal mechanical vibrations.

[0130] 2. Improved signal directivity and localizability

[0131] The inclined position of the core and striker creates a directional pulse, allowing the operator to more accurately pinpoint the pipe's position. In similar designs, the impact is directed perpendicular to the pipe's surface, which often leads to energy dissipation near the impact and makes it difficult to isolate the maximum signal. The proposed design generates a signal propagating primarily in the direction of the sensors, facilitating its detection by ground-based receivers and increasing the system's spatial resolution.

[0132] 4. Versatility for different pipe materials

[0133] Unlike electromagnetic methods (based on current induction and field registration), this device works effectively with any type of pipes, including:

[0134] • metal;

[0135] • plastic (HDPE, PVC);

[0136] • fiberglass;

[0137] • insulated (for example, in a polyurethane foam shell);

[0138] • pipes with internal coating.

[0139] Due to active mechanical action, signal transmission does not depend on the electrical conductivity of the material and does not require additional probes, filling pipes with electrolyte or laying cables along the pipe.

[0140] 5. Increased range and noise immunity

[0141] Due to the specific characteristics of the generated waves and the increased impact amplitude due to the inclined acceleration of the core, the device provides a higher signal-to-noise ratio than similar devices. This is especially important in environments with strong external interference (transport, construction equipment, vibration, etc.), where accurate signal detection using traditional circuits becomes difficult.

[0142] 6. Simplifying Operation and Reducing Costs

[0143] The device does not require laying cables, drilling wells, filling pipelines with special media, frequency calibration, or building complex sensor networks, as is required by solutions at the US 6003376 A and US 20050210960 A1 level. It operates autonomously, can be launched manually or on a schedule, and transmits data wirelessly when needed.

[0144] This makes it particularly suitable for field operations, emergency services, operating organizations and contractors involved in pipeline inspections within a limited timeframe and with minimal disruption to live networks.

[0145] Thus, the combination of the above advantages ensures a qualitative and quantitative increase in the efficiency, convenience, versatility, range and accuracy of underground pipeline tracing, making the claimed device technically and operationally superior to known analogues.

Claims

1. A shock pulse generator for acoustic search of underground pipelines, comprising: - a body with the possibility of attachment to a supporting structure; - an electromagnetic coil located in the housing; - a movable ferromagnetic core located inside the coil; - a striker located with the possibility of interaction with the core; - a supporting structure that ensures the installation of the device on the pipe in the required position and interacts with the striker; - a control unit including a microprocessor control unit connected to a control keyboard, with an indicator, with a pulse duration generator connected to an electromagnetic coil and a power source, characterized in that the housing is located at an angle of 30° to 60° to the longitudinal axis of the pipeline, and the direction of the impact is oriented at an angle to the wall of the pipe, ensuring the excitation of shear and tangential acoustic waves.

2. The generator according to paragraph 1, characterized in that the housing contains replaceable support structures for different diameters and types of pipes.

3. The generator according to claim 1, characterized in that the control unit additionally contains a wireless communication interface for remotely setting parameters, starting the device and transmitting data about the operating mode.

4. The generator according to paragraph 1, characterized in that the support structure is equipped with a removable contact pad made of a material adapted to the type of pipe (metal, plastic, composite), and can be replaced depending on the operating conditions.

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