Compressible Pipeline Inspection Pig for Defect Mapping
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing pipeline inspection pigs face challenges in detecting internal geometry changes and blockages due to deposits and corrosion in oil and gas pipelines, particularly in subsea environments, as they often become jammed or fail to accurately locate localized defects, and their complex designs are prone to wear and limited elasticity.
Innovation Solution
A resiliently-compressible pipeline inspection pig with embedded strain gauges extending transversely, capable of radial compression by at least 30% without deformation, and equipped with a processing unit, data recording, and power activation, allowing for accurate mapping of internal pipeline profiles and defects.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If contact sensors are used to detect pipeline wall defects, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity increases and sensors wear quickly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces mechanical contact sensors with electromagnetic sensors that detect pipeline wall defects through non-contact means. The electromagnetic sensors measure changes in electromagnetic field properties caused by wall thickness variations, eliminating the need for physical contact and thereby reducing wear while maintaining detection capability
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an electromagnetic field as an intermediary between the inspection device and the pipeline wall. The electromagnetic sensors detect defects by measuring disturbances in the electromagnetic field caused by wall thickness variations, rather than requiring direct mechanical contact with the wall surface
2Ease of operation
If pigs are propelled by pressure differential, then ease of operation is improved, but pigs may become jammed in constricted pipelines
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a compliant pig body made of elastomeric material that can dynamically change its shape and cross-sectional area. This allows the pig to adapt to varying pipeline internal diameters and pass through constricted sections that would jam rigid pigs, while still maintaining the pressure differential propulsion mechanism
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the physical parameter of the pig's cross-sectional area by using a compliant elastomeric body that can expand and contract. This allows the pig to adjust its size to match the available pipeline clearance, enabling passage through deposits and constrictions while maintaining propulsion effectiveness
3Measurement precision
If strain gauges are mounted on rigid structures, then measurement precision is improved, but adaptability to pipeline geometry changes decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses a compliant elastomeric pig body that can flex and deform to match pipeline geometry changes. Strain gauges are mounted on this flexible surface, allowing them to conform to pipeline deformities such as dents and bulges while maintaining measurement capability through the flexible mounting surface
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
Enables effective detection and mapping of internal pipeline changes, including deposits and obstructions, without becoming jammed, providing precise data on pipeline conditions and allowing for efficient cleaning and maintenance, even in deep water environments.
Implementation Method 1
at least one strain gauge embedded in the material of the body, the or each strain gauge extending transversely with respect to the central longitudinal axis
Implementation Method 2
a body of resiliently-compressible material extending along a central longitudinal axis
Implementation Method 3
capable of radial compression by at least 30% without deformation
Data Source
Figure 1~3
Figure 4a~4b
Figure 5a~5c
AI summary
A pig for internal pipeline inspection comprises a body of resiliently-compressible material extending along a central longitudinal axis. At least one strain gauge is embedded in the material of the body. The or each strain gauge extends transversely with respect to the central longitudinal axis and is arranged to deflect and elongate longitudinally with longitudinal deflection of a forward end of the body.