Binary Punch Marker Encoding for Anti-Forgery Pipe Weld Identification

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing methods for identifying pipes and welds lack effective encryption and durability, making them susceptible to forgery during inspections of metallic assets.

Innovation Solution

A binary punch marker system that encodes identifying information using a predetermined pattern of recesses on a radiopaque substrate, fabricated using a CNC machine, which can be securely attached to pipes and welds, preventing forgery through radiographic inspection.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If existing identification methods are used for pipes and welds, then the identification process is simple, but the identification is susceptible to forgery and lacks durability

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveidentification securityVSAvoidmarker structure
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The identification information is segmented into multiple binary digits represented by individual recesses or protrusions on the marker surface. Each recess corresponds to a binary digit (0 or 1), creating a segmented encoding scheme that enhances security while maintaining a relatively simple physical structure.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The marker uses changes in physical parameters (presence or absence of recesses/protrusions) to encode information. By varying these binary parameters across multiple positions, the system achieves high reliability and anti-forgery properties without requiring complex mechanical or electronic components.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

2Reliability

If information is encoded without encryption for easy reading, then the inspection process is fast, but the identification can be easily forged

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveanti-forgery capabilityVSAvoidinformation decoding complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDifficulty of detecting and measuring

Solution Approach 1:

The system creates a unique binary pattern copy of the identification information that can be radiographically captured and compared against database records. This binary encoding scheme allows for accurate copying and verification of asset identification without exposing the actual asset details, enhancing security while enabling efficient verification.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #26Copying

3Duration of action of stationary object

If a radiopaque substrate is used for durable marking, then the marker is durable and visible via X-ray, but the manufacturing precision requirements increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemarker durabilityVSAvoidrecess positioning accuracy
Core Design Contradiction:
Duration of action of stationary objectVSManufacturing precision

Solution Approach 1:

The binary pattern and recess positions are predetermined and pre-programmed into the manufacturing process. By establishing the precise binary pattern design before fabrication, the system can guide the manufacturing process to achieve required precision more efficiently, reducing actual manufacturing complexity while ensuring accurate positioning of recesses.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Applied Scientific Principles

This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.

Function Achieved in This Case

The binary punch marker system provides secure and durable identification of pipes and welds by encoding information in a radiopaque substrate, enhancing the reliability of metallic asset inspections and preventing forgery.

Implementation Method 1

The marker comprises a substrate composed of a radiopaque material... The radiopaque material can be composed of lead

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectRadiopacity: Absorption (EM radiation)

Data Source

PatentUS12001899B2Binary punch marker, and a system and method for fabricating the same
Publication Date: 2024.06.04 SAUDI ARABIAN OIL CO
  • US12001899B2 patent drawing
  • US12001899B2 patent drawing
  • US12001899B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A binary punch marker identifies pipes and welds at joints of pipes, and a system and method fabricate such a binary punch marker. The binary punch marker has information encoded by recesses in the marker for identifying the pipes and welds. The information is encrypted to prevent forgery of metallic assets such as pipes, pipelines, storage tanks, etc. during inspection of the metallic assets.